Does ACT II Buttery Kettle Corn, 8.25 OZ contain dairy or gluten?

It contains milk (dairy) but it does not contain gluten. It is safe for a gluten-free diet but not a dairy-free diet.

Is ACT II Buttery Kettle Corn, 8.25 OZ good for weight loss?

It is relatively low in calories for a popcorn (around 150 per serving), but the sugar and fat content make it a treat rather than a diet staple.

Where can I buy ACT II Buttery Kettle Corn, 8.25 OZ?

This product is widely available at major grocery chains like Walmart and Kroger, as well as online retailers like Amazon.

Is ACT II Buttery Kettle Corn, 8.25 OZ safe for kids?

It is generally safe for children, but parents should note the presence of artificial sweeteners (Sucralose) and the choking hazard of popcorn for very young children.

Is ACT II Buttery Kettle Corn, 8.25 OZ Gluten Free?

Yes, ACT II Buttery Kettle Corn, 8.25 OZ is considered gluten-free. Based on the ingredient label, there are no wheat, barley, rye, or oat ingredients listed that would trigger a gluten reaction. However, while it is safe for those avoiding gluten, it does contain milk derivatives and artificial sweeteners that are important to note.

The Ingredient Breakdown

When determining if a snack is safe for a gluten-free diet, we look beyond just the obvious wheat flour. As a food scientist, I examine every additive. The base of this popcorn is simply Popping Corn, which is naturally a gluten-free whole grain. The primary fat source is Palm Oil, which is also naturally free of gluten.

The complexity arises in the flavorings. The label lists Natural and Artificial Flavors (including Milk). While these flavors are gluten-free, the inclusion of milk is significant. This product is not dairy-free. Additionally, the sweetener used is Sucralose, an artificial sweetener that is chemically derived but does not contain gluten proteins. The color Annatto and Caramel Color are generally considered safe for gluten-free diets, provided they haven't been processed on shared equipment with gluten-containing products.

Finally, the preservatives TBHQ and Citric Acid are synthetic and gluten-free. The most critical aspect of this label is what is missing: there is no mention of wheat, soy sauce, or malt flavoring. Therefore, from a formulation standpoint, this specific 8.25 oz bag is gluten-free.

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional perspective, ACT II Buttery Kettle Corn is an energy-dense snack. A standard serving contains approximately 150 calories, derived largely from the Palm Oil and the corn itself. The fat content is moderate for a popcorn snack, but the saturated fat is present due to the palm oil.

The 'Kettle Corn' profile implies sweetness, and this is where the Sucralose plays a role. While it keeps the calorie count lower than if they used pure cane sugar, the presence of artificial sweeteners can be a sticking point for those seeking 'clean label' foods. The sodium content is relatively standard for salted popcorn. If you are strictly monitoring your sugar intake or avoiding artificial sweeteners, this may not fit your dietary limits, but it is a viable option for a gluten-free treat.