Popcorn ball

Snack

Item Rating: 55/100

1 serving (28 grams) contains 110 calories, 1.0 grams of protein, 1.5 grams of fat, and 22.0 grams of carbohydrates.

Nutrition Information

1 cup (239.3g)

Calories		940.2
% Daily Value*
Total Fat		12.8 g	16%
	Saturated Fat	4.3 g	21%
	Polyunsaturated Fat	0 g
Cholesterol		0 mg	0%
Sodium		641.0 mg	27%
Total Carbohydrates		188.0 g	68%
	Dietary Fiber	17.1 g	61%
	Sugars	85.5 g
protein		8.5 g	17%
Vitamin D		0 mcg	0%
Calcium		42.7 mg	3%
Iron		2.6 mg	14%
Potassium		256.4 mg	5%

* 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

🧈 High saturated fat

Source of Calories

Fat: 115 cal (12.8%)

Protein: 34 cal (3.8%)

Carbs: 752 cal (83.4%)

About Popcorn ball

Popcorn balls are a traditional snack made by binding popped popcorn with a sugary or syrupy mixture, often including marshmallows, corn syrup, or caramel. They are widely enjoyed in North America, particularly during holidays like Halloween and Christmas. Though typically considered a treat, popcorn itself is a whole grain, providing some dietary fiber and essential nutrients. However, the sugar content in popcorn balls significantly alters their nutritional profile, often making them high in calories and added sugars. A typical popcorn ball (about 28g) may contain approximately 110-150 calories, 1-2g of fiber, and negligible protein.

Health Benefits

• Popcorn, the base ingredient, is a whole grain, contributing dietary fiber which supports digestive health.
• Air-popped popcorn used in making popcorn balls contains polyphenols, antioxidants that help protect cells from damage.
• Popcorn contains small amounts of essential minerals like magnesium and phosphorus, important for bone health and metabolic functions.

Dietary Considerations

Allergens: Contains corn, potential dairy (if butter or marshmallows are used), potential nuts if included for flavor or toppings

Suitable for: Vegetarian (if no animal-based gelatin is used), some gluten-free diets (if prepared with gluten-free ingredients)

Not suitable for: Vegan (if using dairy or gelatin), low-sugar/carb diets due to high added sugar content

Selection and Storage

Store popcorn balls in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness and prevent them from becoming stale or overly hard.

Common Questions About Popcorn ball Nutrition

How many calories are in a popcorn ball?

A standard popcorn ball contains approximately 150-250 calories, depending on its size and ingredients, such as sugar or syrup added during preparation. The calorie count could vary if additional coatings or toppings like chocolate are included.

Is a popcorn ball suitable for a vegan diet?

Popcorn balls can be vegan if made with plant-based ingredients. Traditional recipes often use corn syrup and sugar for binding, which are naturally vegan, but some variations might use butter or marshmallows, which are not vegan. Ensure to check the specific ingredients or prepare them using vegan substitutes like plant-based butter.

Are there any health concerns with eating popcorn balls?

Popcorn balls are high in added sugar and may contribute to excessive calorie consumption when eaten in large quantities. Additionally, they can be high in sodium depending on the recipe, and may not provide significant nutritional benefits aside from carbohydrates. Moderation is key, especially for those monitoring their sugar intake.

What is the recommended serving size for a popcorn ball?

The recommended serving size for a popcorn ball is typically one ball, which ranges from 40-60 grams. Consuming in moderation is advisable due to its added sugars and limited nutritional value.

How do popcorn balls compare to regular popcorn in terms of nutrition?

Popcorn balls are higher in calories, sugar, and often sodium compared to regular air-popped popcorn, which is almost sugar-free and lower in calories (contains about 30 calories per cup). Popcorn balls are less nutrient-dense and are usually considered a sweet treat rather than a healthy snack option.

Data Sources & Scientific References