1 serving (50 grams) contains 328 calories, 2.5 grams of protein, 29.4 grams of fat, and 15.8 grams of carbohydrates.
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Nutrition Information
Calories |
91.8 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 8.2 g | 10% | |
| Saturated Fat | 5.0 g | 25% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.2 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 7.3 mg | 2% | |
| Sodium | 105.8 mg | 4% | |
| Total Carbohydrates | 4.4 g | 1% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.8 g | 2% | |
| Sugars | 0.0 g | ||
| protein | 0.7 g | 1% | |
| Vitamin D | 0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 1.1 mg | 0% | |
| Iron | 0.2 mg | 1% | |
| Potassium | 17.4 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 Movie theater popcorn
Movie theater popcorn is a quintessential snack in cinemas worldwide, with its origins rooted in the United States during the early 20th century when popcorn became a popular and affordable treat. Made by heating corn kernels until they pop, this snack is typically flavored with butter or oil and salt, contributing to its savory taste. Nutritionally, plain popcorn is a whole grain, high in fiber, and low in calories. However, movie theater popcorn is often prepared with added fats and sodium, significantly increasing its calorie and sodium content. A standard medium-sized serving can provide 600-1,200 calories, 50-80 grams of fat, and a substantial amount of sodium, depending on preparation methods and toppings.
Health Benefits
- Popcorn is a whole grain, providing dietary fiber essential for digestive health (around 3.5 grams of fiber per 1 cup of plain popcorn).
- It contains polyphenols—plant compounds with antioxidant properties that may reduce oxidative stress.
- Plain popcorn is naturally low in fat and sugar, making it a heart-healthy snack in its unseasoned form.
Dietary Considerations
Selection and Storage
Store leftover popcorn in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Avoid refrigerating as it may make the popcorn stale or chewy.
Common Questions About Movie theater popcorn Nutrition
Is movie theater popcorn high in calories?
Yes, movie theater popcorn is typically high in calories. A medium-sized serving can contain 800-1,200 calories, depending on the size and added butter or seasoning. The oil and butter used in preparation significantly increase its calorie count.
Can I eat movie theater popcorn on a keto diet?
Movie theater popcorn is not ideal for a keto diet because it is relatively high in carbohydrates. A medium serving can contain 50-100 grams of carbs, which exceeds typical daily carb limits for keto diets. The added sugars and flavorings can make it even less keto-friendly.
Is movie theater popcorn vegan or vegetarian?
Movie theater popcorn can be vegetarian as it’s primarily composed of corn, oil, and salt, but whether it’s vegan depends on the preparation method. Some theaters use butter or flavorings derived from animal products, so it’s best to check with the specific venue about their ingredients.
What is the recommended portion size for movie theater popcorn?
The recommended portion size for movie theater popcorn is around 2-3 cups, which equals approximately 150-300 calories without butter. Avoid oversized servings, as they can quickly exceed daily calorie and sodium limits.
How does movie theater popcorn compare to air-popped popcorn?
Movie theater popcorn is much higher in calories, fat, and sodium compared to air-popped popcorn. Air-popped popcorn has around 30 calories per cup and minimal fat, while movie theater popcorn can contain 100+ calories per cup due to added oil and butter.
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 - Movie theater 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.
