Movie Theater Nutrition: Two Thumbs Down
Movie Theater Nutrition | Foodfacts.com
Most Foodfacts.com members already know that going to the movies is a perfect date night or an outing for the whole family, but the concession stand can really put a dent in your wallet and pounds on your hips. It’s doubtful that anyone thinks they’re ordering a healthy snack when they order a box of jujubes roughly the size of Texas, but some of the calorie counts are shocking.
Think popcorn is a safe bet? Think again. Many theatres pop their popcorn in calorie-heavy coconut oil. A 2009 test by the Center for Science in the Public Interest found that large tubs of popcorn at popular theatre chains range from 910 to 1,610 calories. (That 1,610 calorie tub also packs 60 grams of fat)
The candy boxes at theaters are much more than even king-sized bars at your local convenience store. While the products are the same as you’d buy anywhere else, the portion (and price) is inflated. A regular sized bag of Raisinets contains 1.58 ounces; at the movie theatre you get 3.5 ounces — over twice as much! That 3.5 ounce box has 190 calories. A 3.5 box of Reese’s Pieces comes in much higher at approximately 417 calories. And a 6 ounce box of Jujyfruits has over 500 calories (don’t let the fruit name and the vegetable shapes fool you).
Your best option is to go out for a healthy meal or snack before the movie, and enjoy the flick without food. But if you can’t get through a movie without the munchies, ask if they have a “snack pack” sized popcorn. Movie theaters often have a smaller, snack-sized portion (though they may not advertise it) — it’s enough to share and will save on calories. Also, remember to opt for water instead of soda. If the over-sized candy boxes are calling your name, only eat a small portion of the box — then enjoy the rest over the next few days.
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Source and Image: Mygloss
