1 serving (14 grams) contains 74 calories, 1.1 grams of protein, 4.9 grams of fat, and 6.9 grams of carbohydrates.
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Nutrition Information
Calories |
73.5 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 4.9 g | 6% | |
| Saturated Fat | 1.3 g | 6% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.8 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 2.9 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 31.2 mg | 1% | |
| Total Carbohydrates | 6.9 g | 2% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.2 g | 4% | |
| Sugars | 0.1 g | ||
| protein | 1.1 g | 2% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.7 mcg | 8% | |
| Calcium | 1.7 mg | 0% | |
| Iron | 0.3 mg | 1% | |
| Potassium | 27.2 mg | 0% | |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Food Attributes
Source of Calories
About Buttered popcorn
Buttered popcorn is a popular snack made by combining air-popped or stovetop-popped corn kernels with melted butter for added flavor. Popcorn originates from North America, where indigenous peoples cultivated maize and discovered its ability to puff when heated. It has become an iconic part of American cinema culture and casual snacking worldwide. Nutritionally, plain popcorn is a whole grain and a good source of dietary fiber, containing approximately 3.5 grams of fiber per 3-cup serving. However, the addition of butter increases fat content, primarily saturated fat, and calories, turning it into a more indulgent treat. Moderation is key when savoring buttered popcorn, as excessive butter may contribute to higher intake of unhealthy fats and sodium if salted.
Health Benefits
- Dietary fiber in popcorn aids digestion and promotes gut health, with approximately 1.2 grams of fiber per cup (plain).
- Popcorn is low in calories relative to its volume, making it a satisfying snack for weight management without excessive energy intake (about 30 calories per cup, unbuttered).
- Popcorn contains polyphenols, antioxidants that may help reduce oxidative stress and support cell health.
Dietary Considerations
Selection and Storage
Store plain, popped popcorn in an airtight container to maintain freshness for up to 1 week. Avoid storing buttered popcorn at room temperature for long periods; prepare it fresh for optimal taste.
Common Questions About Buttered popcorn Nutrition
Is buttered popcorn high in protein?
Buttered popcorn is not considered high in protein. A typical serving (about 3 cups or 24 grams) contains approximately 2-3 grams of protein, making it a less significant source compared to foods like nuts, meat, or dairy.
Can I eat buttered popcorn on a keto diet?
Buttered popcorn is not ideal for a strict keto diet, as 3 cups contain approximately 15-18 grams of net carbs. However, in very small amounts, it could fit within your daily carb limit if closely monitored.
Are there health concerns with eating buttered popcorn?
Buttered popcorn can be high in calories (about 150 per 3 cups) and saturated fat due to the butter. Additionally, pre-packaged versions may contain added sodium and artificial flavorings, which could contribute to health issues if consumed regularly.
How much buttered popcorn should I eat in a serving?
A standard serving size for buttered popcorn is about 3 cups (24 grams), which provides 150-160 calories. When portioning, it’s important to consider added butter and toppings, as they can significantly increase calorie and fat content.
How does buttered popcorn compare to air-popped popcorn?
Buttered popcorn is higher in calories and fat compared to air-popped popcorn, which has only around 30 calories per cup and no added fats. Air-popped popcorn is a healthier option, especially if you're looking to reduce saturated fat and calorie intake.
Data Sources & Scientific References
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.
- USDA FoodData - Buttered popcorn DataU.S. Department of AgricultureOfficial nutrition data for this specific food item from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's comprehensive food database.
Additional Authoritative Sources:
Daily value percentages based on FDA guidelines. Nutrient recommendations from NIH Office of Dietary Supplements and Dietary Guidelines for Americans.
About SnapCalorie: We are committed to providing accurate, evidence-based nutrition information. Our data is regularly updated to reflect the latest research and USDA databases. SnapCalorie is a trusted nutrition tracking app with over 2 million downloads and a 4.8/5 star rating.
