The product contains 17.9g of added sugar per 100g, significantly impacting its score.
With 10.71g of protein and 3.61g of fiber per 100g, it offers some beneficial macronutrients.
This snack is classified as NOVA 3 (processed) and is less nutrient-dense than air-popped popcorn or raw vegetables with hummus.
Portion control is important due to the calorie and added sugar density.
Scores -17 points above the snack category average (49/100 across 108 foods).
Fiber
3.61g
13% of Daily Value
Protein
10.71g
21% of Daily Value
Added sugar
17.9g
36% of Daily Value
Sodium
428.57mg
19% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (3.6g)+3
Protein (10.7g)+6
Micronutrients (Iron)+2
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (17.9g)-23
Sodium (428.6mg)-1
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 32
STACY'S Pita Chips Cinnamon Sugar receives a FoodScore of 32 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. The primary factor driving this score is the significant amount of added sugar, which stands at 17.9g per 100g. This contributes a substantial -23 penalty to the overall score. While the product does contain 10.71g of protein and 3.61g of fiber per 100g, earning +6 and +3 bonuses respectively, these positive contributions are largely offset by the sugar content. The presence of iron, at 3.93mg (22% DV), adds a minor +2 bonus. However, the product's classification as NOVA 3 (processed) incurs a -5 penalty. Ingredients like enriched wheat flour and sugar are prominent. Compared to a baseline of air-popped popcorn or raw vegetables with hummus, STACY'S Pita Chips Cinnamon Sugar offers less fiber and significantly more added sugar and calories per serving, making it a less optimal choice for regular consumption.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in stacy's pita chips cinnamon sugar actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Iron
STACY'S Pita Chips Cinnamon Sugar provides 3.93mg of iron per 100g, which accounts for 22% of the Daily Value. Iron is an essential mineral crucial for oxygen transport in the blood and various metabolic processes. While not a primary source, this contribution can help individuals meet their daily iron needs, especially when combined with other iron-rich foods in the diet. The iron present is likely due to the enrichment of wheat flour.
Contains Protein
This product offers 10.71g of protein per 100g. Protein is a fundamental macronutrient necessary for building and repairing tissues, producing enzymes and hormones, and supporting immune function. While not as high in protein as some other snack options, this amount can contribute to feelings of satiety, potentially helping to manage appetite between meals. The protein primarily comes from the wheat flour used in the pita chips.
Provides Dietary Fiber
STACY'S Pita Chips Cinnamon Sugar contains 3.61g of dietary fiber per 100g. Fiber is important for digestive health, promoting regular bowel movements and contributing to a healthy gut microbiome. It can also help regulate blood sugar levels and contribute to satiety. The fiber content is likely derived from the whole wheat flour and oat fiber listed in the ingredients, offering a modest contribution to daily fiber intake.
STACY'S Pita Chips Cinnamon Sugar earns a FoodScore of 32/100 (Poor), primarily due to its high added sugar content.
How to eat it
STACY'S Pita Chips Cinnamon Sugar are typically consumed as a sweet snack, often enjoyed on their own or paired with dips. A common portion is around 7 chips, which is a relatively small serving. Be mindful that it's easy to overconsume these chips due to their palatable flavor and small individual size.
Pair with plain Greek yogurt or cottage cheese to add protein and calcium, balancing the snack's macronutrient profile.
Measure out a single serving (7 chips) to practice portion control and avoid excessive intake of added sugar and calories.
Consider these chips as an occasional treat rather than a daily snack, due to their processed nature and sugar content.
Crush and sprinkle a small amount over fresh fruit or a smoothie bowl for a sweet, crunchy topping without eating a full serving.
Things to keep in mind
Individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity should avoid STACY'S Pita Chips Cinnamon Sugar as it contains enriched wheat flour and whole wheat flour. The product is also high in added sugar, with 17.9g per 100g, which could be a concern for individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes, or those looking to reduce their overall sugar intake. The ingredient list includes sunflower oil and/or canola oil, which are common vegetable oils. While generally recognized as safe, some individuals may prefer snacks made with other oil types. The sodium content, at 428.57mg per 100g, is moderate but should be considered by those monitoring sodium intake.
STACY'S Pita Chips Cinnamon Sugar has a FoodScore of 32/100, categorized as 'Poor.' This is largely due to its high added sugar content (17.9g per 100g) and its classification as a processed food (NOVA 3). While it offers some iron, protein, and fiber, these benefits are outweighed by less favorable nutritional aspects for regular consumption.
How does STACY'S Pita Chips Cinnamon Sugar compare to other snack chips?
Compared to many savory snack chips like Lay's Classic Potato Chips, STACY'S Pita Chips Cinnamon Sugar has a similar calorie density but significantly more added sugar. It offers a bit more protein and fiber than plain potato chips, but its sweet profile makes it more comparable to other sweet baked snacks. For a more nutrient-dense option, consider air-popped popcorn.
What is 'enriched wheat flour' and why is it in STACY'S Pita Chips?
Enriched wheat flour is refined wheat flour that has had certain B vitamins (niacin, thiamin, riboflavin, folic acid) and iron added back after processing. It's a common ingredient in many baked goods, including STACY'S Pita Chips, to restore nutrients lost during the milling process. While it adds some micronutrients, it is still a refined grain.
What is a reasonable portion size for STACY'S Pita Chips Cinnamon Sugar?
A standard serving size for STACY'S Pita Chips Cinnamon Sugar is 7 chips. This portion helps manage the intake of calories and added sugar. Consuming larger portions frequently would lead to a higher intake of less beneficial nutrients, making it harder to maintain a balanced diet.
Can I eat STACY'S Pita Chips Cinnamon Sugar if I'm trying to reduce sugar?
If you are trying to reduce your sugar intake, STACY'S Pita Chips Cinnamon Sugar may not be the best choice due to its 17.9g of added sugar per 100g. While occasional consumption in small portions might fit, there are many other snack options with significantly less or no added sugar that would better support a low-sugar diet.