1 serving (8 grams) contains 31 calories, 1.0 grams of protein, 0.4 grams of fat, and 6.2 grams of carbohydrates.
Calories |
62 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 0.8 g | 1% | |
| Saturated Fat | 0.2 g | 1% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Total Carbohydrates | 12.4 g | 4% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.4 g | 8% | |
| Sugars | 0.2 g | ||
| protein | 2 g | 4% | |
| Vitamin D | 0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Iron | 0.6 mg | 3% | |
| Potassium | 52 mg | 1% | |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Air-popped popcorn is a whole grain snack made by heating dried kernels without oil, relying solely on hot air to expand the starch inside the kernel. The origin of popcorn traces back to Indigenous peoples in the Americas, where it has been cultivated for thousands of years. Today, it is most commonly associated with snack foods in Western cuisines. Nutritionally, air-popped popcorn is low in calories, high in fiber, and provides essential polyphenols, making it a healthful snack option. One cup of air-popped popcorn contains approximately 30 calories, 1 gram of protein, and 1.2 grams of dietary fiber, without added fats or sugars. It's also naturally gluten-free and cholesterol-free, making it suitable for a wide range of dietary needs.
Store unpopped kernels in a cool, dry place in an airtight container to preserve their quality. Once air-popped, keep the popcorn in an airtight bag or container for 1-2 days to maintain freshness.
Air-popped popcorn is not high in protein, containing about 1 gram of protein per cup (8 grams) of popped popcorn. While it is low in protein, it is a great low-calorie snack option that provides dietary fiber and complex carbohydrates.
Air-popped popcorn is not highly compatible with a keto diet because it contains approximately 6 grams of net carbs per cup. While you might include it in very small amounts in a strict keto plan, most people opt for lower-carb snacks like nuts or seeds.
Air-popped popcorn is a healthy snack when eaten plain, as it’s low in calories (around 30 calories per cup) and high in dietary fiber. However, adding butter, oil, or sugary toppings can significantly increase its calorie content and reduce its health benefits. Additionally, popcorn may pose a choking hazard for young children.
A recommended serving size of air-popped popcorn is about 3 cups, which equals 90 calories, 3 grams of fiber, and less than 1 gram of fat. This portion size provides a satisfying amount without adding excessive calories.
Air-popped popcorn is generally healthier than microwave popcorn as it is free of added oils, butter, and artificial flavoring found in many packaged microwave varieties. While microwave popcorn can contain hundreds of calories per serving, air-popped popcorn remains low-calorie and fat-free unless additional toppings are added.
Our nutrition data comes from trusted, authoritative sources to ensure accuracy and reliability. Below are specific scientific references and authoritative sources for this food item.
Additional Authoritative Sources:
Daily value percentages based on FDA guidelines. Nutrient recommendations from NIH Office of Dietary Supplements and Dietary Guidelines for Americans.
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