Are you also a popcorn lover? Did you also come here to know its calorie content and other nutritional information? Well, you are safe because the calorie content of this snack is very low.
There are 375 calories in a bag of popcorn, according to US Department of Agriculture research. Here, the bag means 100 grams of popcorn. This calorie content is for simple popcorn without any additives.
This blog post will provide you with complete nutritional information about popcorn and its toppings. Moreover, we will also share its health benefits and potential harmful effects. In the end, we will also teach you the method of making this snack. Stay with us till the end as we start uncovering the information.
Popcorn Nutrition Information
Here is the nutrition information for 24 grams of popcorn. Keep in mind that this nutrition information is for just simple popcorn without any toppings, flavors, butter, or other additives.
| Nutrient | Amount |
| Calories | 93 |
| Protein | 3g |
| Sodium | 1.9mg |
| Carbohydrates | 18.6g |
| Fat | 1.1g |
| Magnesium | 34.5mg |
| Sugars | 0.2g |
| Fiber | 3.6g |
Nutritional Information Of Popcorns Toppings
Any type of ingredients used in making or topping pop corn increases its calorie content. Here we will list the top 3 ingredients which are used in its making and their calorie content. The average serving we have taken here is 24 grams.
Oil Used In Popping
| Nutrient | Amount |
| Calories | 164 |
| Fat | 9g |
Butter Topping (Per Tablespoon)
| Nutrient | Amount |
| Calories | 100 |
| Fat | 11g |
| Saturated Fat | 7g |
| Sodium | 90mg |
Grated Parmesan (Per Tablespoon)
| Nutrient | Amount |
| Calories | 20 |
| Protein | 2g |
| Fat | 1g |
| Sodium | 46mg |
Health Benefits Of Popcorns
Popcorn is a healthy snack with several health benefits when cooked in the right way. Following are some of those benefits:
- Popcorn’s is rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It contains B vitamins, manganese, magnesium, zinc, and other nutrients as well.
- The second health benefit of this snake is that it is high in fiber.
- Popcorn also contains polyphenol antioxidants, which strengthen your immune system.
- Another very common reason people like it is its low calorie content. It can help you with weight management.
- The fifth health benefit of popcorn is that it is naturally a gluten-free snack. It is safe for you, even with celiac disease.
- It falls under the category of whole grains. It means it reduces the risks of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes.
- Another benefit of popcorn is that it is rich in fiber.
- Popcorn also increases your salivary production. It neutralizes the effect of mouth acids and reduces the risk of cavities.
- The last benefit of popcorn on our list is its versatility. It means it is available in different flavors, and you can also use herbs and various other toppings alongside it as well.
Harmful Effects Of Popcorn
Although there are rare side effects of popcorn, there are still some potential side effects. These include;
- Although it is very rare, half-populated kernels may choke small kids.
- Excessive use of butter, oil, and salt during their preparation can increase their calorie count. Hard, unpopped kernels or half-popped kernels may also damage your teeth.
- Eating a lot of popcorn and not chewing it properly may also cause digestive problems.
- Popcorn is often seasoned with a lot of salt. These can increase the risk of high blood pressure and other cardiovascular problems.
- Some commercially prepared popcorn may also contain unhealthy additives. These include artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives.
- Some people are allergic to corn. It also poses a risk of allergic reactions for those.
- Overcooking popcorn at high temperatures can also cause acrylamide formation. It is a risk factor for cancer in animal studies.
How To Make Popcorn?
Popcorns are one of the easiest snakes to make. Start by heating 2-3 tablespoons of oil in a large pot over medium heat. Then add 1/3 cup of popcorn kernels. Then cover it with a lid and shake the pot. It will coat the kernels with oil. Continue shaking the pot to prevent them from overburning.
Once the popping slows down, remove the pot from heat. Now it’s time to add your favorite tip to it. You can add spices, herbs, and cheese to it. You can also make these in the microwave as well.
Final Words
A 100-gram bag of popcorn contains around 375 calories, according to the official USDA website. Moreover, additional toppings and other ingredients or flavors used while cooking it will further increase its calorie content.
It is a very healthy snack when cooked in the right way. Use a very small amount of oil and salt while cooking it. It is the most healthy way to prepare it. It can also be helpful in reducing your daily calorie content and weight management as well.
