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Experts share their top picks, and a few things to look for on the bag. Microwave popcorn has faced serious health scrutiny over the years, and many of us still harbor doubts about the safety of a product that has left a lingering chemical odor in countless office break rooms over the years. In fact, there have been so many stories about the snack’s unhealthy aspects that many of us just avoid eating it at all. But is it still as bad as we’ve always been told? That was then... One reason for concern about microwave popcorn centered on PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), diacetyl and tertiary butylhydroquinone (TBHQ), a synthetic preservative that has raised health concerns. PFAS are synthetic chemicals used to make packaging grease- and water-resistant and were often used for the inner lining of popcorn bags to prevent oil from leaking, and diacetyl was linked to a condition called “popcorn lung” that affected workers in facilities where the popcorn was produced. Other alarms were raised over nutritional concerns, because many brands of microwave popcorn had high sodium content and also contained unhealthy fats like palm oil, hydrogenated oils, saturated fats and butter flavorings. Advertisement This is now... The good news is that, in 2016, the Food and Drug Administration phased out several types of PFAS from food packaging, and in 2024, PFAS were eliminated from materials that come into contact with food. It’s important to note that not all forms are banned, and not all companies comply with the mandate. But many manufacturers have heard consumers’ concerns, and many newer or organic brands now use PFAS-free or compostable bags, including SkinnyPop, which launched a chemical-free pop-up box, and Black Jewell, which touts its chemical-free microwave bags. While brands are not required to label whether their bags contain PFAS, some brands choose to add a “PFAS-free” label. And many manufacturers have created better-for-you versions of the snack, many with a simple ingredient list that includes popcorn, oil and salt, with no preservatives, added colorings or other ingredients. Advertisement What nutritionists really think about microwave popcorn With so many changes in a standard pantry item, it might be hard to keep track of which brands are following healthier guidelines and still delivering a tasty snack. Nutritionists can help clear up the confusion, and they generally have good things to say about popcorn as a snack in general, since it’s a whole grain, high-fiber choice. “It’s crunchy and satisfying, and it’s tied to fun, cozy experiences, like movie nights or sharing a big bowl with friends or loved ones,” said registered dietitian Sherry Lin. When it comes to the microwave versions, these experts were generally positive, but they did have some caveats: “It should be eaten with some caution, as many of the more popular flavors can be higher in oils and sodium,” said registered dietitian Lisa Moskovitz. Registered dietitian nutritionist Vanessa Imus noted that while popcorn naturally contains 0 grams of fat, “the addition of butter and oils can add up quickly.” “It’s a tasty and easy home-movie-night snack, but just because it can be lower in calories compared to chips or cookies, doesn’t mean it’s always the most filling,” Moskovitz said. “For a truly filling snack, you’ll want to pair that popcorn with more protein, fiber or anti-inflammatory fat, whether that’s in the form of fruit, cheese, yogurt or nuts.” Advertisement Here are the brands nutritionists recommend While these experts stressed that it’s very easy to make air-popped or stovetop versions of popcorn at home, they do have some microwave favorites on grocery store shelves. Here are some of their top picks: “I like Newman’s Own Organic Touch of Butter, as it’s organic and has lower levels of saturated fat,” said registered dietitian nutritionist Sharon Palmer. “My favorite is the classic Orville Redenbacher’s Naturals popcorn,” Moskovitz said. “It’s easy to find, tastes great and my whole family enjoys it. It comes with simple ingredients that alleviate any concern over product quality.” Registered dietitian nutritionist Vicki Shanta Retelny recommended Orville Redenbacher’s Smart Pop!, which has 100 calories per 6 cups and 0 grams trans fat per serving. When shopping for microwave popcorn, she suggested, “Always check labels for ‘PFAS-free bags’ and no artificial flavorings.” SkinnyPop is Imus’ personal favorite, and she describes it as a “tasty and health-conscious option.” She added, “It has simple ingredients, including popcorn, oil and salt, without additives or artificial ingredients. Plus, it’s Non-GMO Project verified, meaning there’s no genetically modified corn. In addition, the brand doesn’t have any chemical liners.” She’s also a fan of both the taste and the lower fat content: “It has just enough flavor from oil and salt to make it a tasty combination, while keeping total and saturated fats much lower than most other brands.” YourSupportMakes The Story Your SupportFuelsOur Mission Your SupportFuelsOur Mission Join Those Who Make It Possible HuffPost stands apart because we report for the people, not the powerful. Our journalism is fearless, inclusive, and unfiltered. Join the membership program and help strengthen news that puts people first. We remain committed to providing you with the unflinching, fact-based journalism everyone deserves. Thank you again for your support along the way. We’re truly grateful for readers like you! Your initial support helped get us here and bolstered our newsroom, which kept us strong during uncertain times. Now as we continue, we need your help more than ever. We hope you will join us once again. We remain committed to providing you with the unflinching, fact-based journalism everyone deserves. Thank you again for your support along the way. We’re truly grateful for readers like you! Your initial support helped get us here and bolstered our newsroom, which kept us strong during uncertain times. Now as we continue, we need your help more than ever. We hope you will join us once again. Support HuffPost Already contributed? Log in to hide these messages. 365 by Whole Foods Market has a microwave popcorn product that’s been met with approval by lifestyle medicine physician Dr. Simran Malhotra. “I was impressed that it’s made without any added oil, butter, salt or preservatives,” she said. “While this popcorn is plain, it gives you the ability to DIY it with a drizzle of olive oil and your favorite seasonings.” Malhotra added this advice: “Popcorn is a great healthy snack option but as I tell my kids, ‘Sometimes too much of a good thing can be a bad thing,’ so be aware of portion sizes. And always read the ingredient and nutrition label to find the best option for you and your family.” Advertisement From Our Partner
