Popcorn snack more satiating than almonds, party mix or pretzels

Abstract

This study compared satiety of whole grain 94% fat free microwave popcorn, dry roasted almonds, party mix (a mix of ready‐to‐eat cereal squares) and pretzels. Eucaloric (100 kcal) portions of these foods where tested in a counterbalanced, within subject design, with 29 normal weight participants (9 males and 20 females, ages 20–50 years). Participants consumed a standard breakfast followed three hours later by the test snack. Hunger, fullness, thirst, desire for a snack and general mood were recorded on 11‐point scales before and 30 minutes after the snack. Overall liking, appearance, flavor, texture and satisfaction were rated on 9‐point hedonic scales. Popcorn consumption resulted in less hunger, more fullness and less interest in a snack than almonds, party mix or pretzels (p<0.05) 30 minutes post consumption. These results support previous research showing popcorn is more satiating than other popular snacks. The satiety attribute, combined with popcorn's contribution to whole grain and fiber intakes, supports the consumption of low fat popcorn as a snack that can add to a healthy dietary pattern.Supported by ConAgra Foods