Who is this guide for?

Film snackers who compare labels

You’re mainly looking to eat less fat, so you compare the nutritional information for the exact variety. The Voedingscentrum points out that nutritional values can vary between brands.

Anyone who wants to serve popcorn without preparing it

You’re looking for popcorn you can put straight on the table. Albert Heijn lists AH Zoute popcorn, while ALDI lists SUN SNACKS Zoute popcorn as ready-to-eat varieties.

Home poppers

You want to make the popcorn yourself and choose the seasoning. Albert Heijn lists AH Biologisch Popcorn mais; popping it yourself does not, in itself, prove that the finished portion contains less fat.

What should you look for when buying?

Compare the exact flavour variety on the same nutritional basis. The Voedingscentrum stresses that average values do not necessarily apply to a specific bag.

What to consider What should you check? Who should pay particular attention?
Verifiably lower in fat Check the fat content of the exact variety and the nutritional basis used. Don’t assess a claim without considering the applicable conditions for nutrition claims, which the NVWA and the Voedingscentrum provide guidance on. If I’m mainly looking for a variety that’s verifiably lower in fat, I compare the product information rather than relying on the product name alone. Around 36% of consumers prioritise reducing fat.
Energy and portion size Compare energy and fat on the same basis, and consider the weight of the portion you actually serve. If I want to keep my film-night portion under control, I look at both the nutritional values and the amount I serve. Around 29% of consumers prioritise the energy content of the portion they eat.
Ease of preparation Check whether the popcorn is ready to eat or needs to be prepared. For microwave popcorn, follow the instructions on the exact pack. If I don’t want to prepare anything during the film, I choose a variety that’s ready to serve. Around 21% of consumers prioritise convenience for film night.
Flavour and seasoning Choose the flavour you want and check the ingredients in the popcorn and seasoning if you need to avoid certain substances because of an allergy. If I want to choose the flavour myself, I take into account the extra preparation and the ingredients I add. Around 14% of consumers prioritise flavour or control over the seasoning.

Common pitfalls

  • Using an average popcorn value for a specific bag

    Average nutritional values don’t automatically match those of the product you’re buying. The Voedingscentrum points out that nutritional values can vary between brands.

    Compare the nutritional information for the exact varieties on the same basis, and relate it to the portion you plan to eat.

  • Assuming a category page proves that a brand sells popcorn

    A page for the crisps and popcorn category doesn’t automatically identify every product on it as popcorn. The Jumbo category, for example, also lists potato snacks.

    Check the name and product information for each individual variety before including it in a popcorn comparison.

  • Choosing a snack box without checking what popcorn it contains

    The Croky party box described by Kruidvat contains crisps and other items as well as sweet popcorn. This listing doesn’t identify the popcorn as a separate product with a verifiably lower fat content.

    Choose a clearly identifiable individual popcorn variety if you want to compare fat content.

    If you’re only looking for popcorn, a mixed box like this also gives you other snacks and items.

Brands to compare

Albert Heijn

The product listings include AH Zoute popcorn, which is ready to serve, and AH Biologisch Popcorn mais, which you prepare yourself.

  • The listed products offer two different ways to prepare popcorn.
  • The product listings don’t substantiate a lower fat content or say anything about the full range.

Jumbo

The product listings include sweet popcorn and salted microwave popcorn.

  • The varieties mentioned suit different flavour and preparation preferences.
  • The product format doesn’t prove a lower fat content. For the microwave variety listed, Jumbo warns you not to restart the cooking process after an interruption.

Lidl

Lidl lists Snack Day Popcorn zeezout 200 g as a specific salted variety.

  • The product description specifies the flavour and pack size.
  • The product listing doesn’t prove a reduced fat content or guarantee availability in a particular store.

ALDI

ALDI lists SUN SNACKS Zoute popcorn 100 g as a ready-to-eat salted variety.

  • The product name and pack size are listed.
  • This product information doesn’t classify the popcorn as low-fat or provide a comparison with other products.

Popcorn at Joybuy

Related products coming soon.

Frequently asked questions

Can a seller call popcorn ‘low-fat’ or ‘reduced fat’ without meeting any requirements?

No. Nutrition claims must comply with the applicable European rules. The NVWA refers to these rules, and the Voedingscentrum states that a product must meet the conditions for making a claim.

Can I use the average nutritional value of popcorn for a specific bag?

No. Use the nutritional information for the exact variety. The Voedingscentrum describes average values and points out that nutritional values can vary between brands.

What should I look out for with microwave popcorn?

Follow the instructions on the pack of the variety you’re preparing. For Magnetron Popcorn Zout 3 x 90 g, Jumbo says not to restart the cooking process after an interruption.

How can I flavour popcorn I’ve popped myself?

The Voedingscentrum suggests cinnamon or speculaas and biscuit spices for a change of flavour. This tip, by itself, says nothing about the fat content or nutritional value of the finished portion.

Is popcorn automatically suitable if I have a food allergy?

No. Check the ingredients of the exact popcorn variety and any seasonings you add. The Voedingscentrum advises people with allergies to check the labels of the ingredients they use.