

Boom chicka popcorn free#
The exterior packaging may claim zero grams of trans fat per serving, yet companies can claim their product is trans fat free even when it contains less than 1 gram per serving.Ī serving of microwave popcorn can range from 2.5 cups to 3.5 cups.Įating several servings of popcorn containing 0.5 grams trans fat can exceed the recommended maximum of 2 grams per day for a 2,000 calorie diet. These oils contain trans fats that raise bad cholesterol and lower good cholesterol in the blood. The Trans-Saturated Fat Content of PopcornĬheck the ingredient list to see if the product contains partially hydrogenated oils. There are 5 things to which you should pay attention when you’re purchasing a microwave popcorn brand: 1. Need more help with your child’s snacking? Check out this resource! The Healthiest Microwave Popcorn: What to Look Forīefore we dig in, you need to understand what you’re looking for when selecting a healthy popcorn. Need other snack ideas? Check out my book The Smart Mom’s Guide to Healthy Snacking for inspiration. In the case of popcorn, it’s a good idea to add a serving of fruit or cheese to make it more filling.

This is why it’s a good idea to be strategic with snacks. Snacks should cover your child’s appetite until the next meal and contribute some nutrition. Kids in the US aren’t getting enough whole grains or fiber, so incorporating popcorn into your snack rotation can be a nutritious addition. I set out to find healthiest popcorn options you can make in the microwave based on a review of 9 microwave popcorn brands from the grocery store. They include ingredients such as oil and salt, but may also contain artificial ingredients, like flavorings, and trans fats, and sodium. Similarly, microwave popcorn brands do the same. If you’re popping at home on the stove, you know you need to add oil so the kernel won’t stick to the pan.Īfter popping, you might add butter and salt. Microwave popcorn makes cooking and serving popcorn almost effortless.Īs a whole grain snack, you’d think popcorn would be a slam dunk in the healthy category.
