While homemade popcorn is high in fiber and antioxidants, when it comes to the microwaveable stuff, popcorn loses its nutritional virtue pretty fast. First, they’re frequently full of shelf-stable trans fats—and even if a label says there are none, manufacturers are allowed to add up to a half gram of trans fat per serving without disclosing it in the nutrition facts (look for “partially hydrogenated” oils in the ingredient list to know for sure). And then there are the bags and fake stuff: While most major brands have done away with toxic chemicals like PFCs in individual popping bags, many still douse their kernels with artificial colorings and flavorings. Oh, and what about kettle corn? It’s often loaded with sugar or artificial sweeteners. Fortunately, popping your own corn is ridiculously easy (here’s how to do it), and even if you’d rather go the packaged route, you can feel good about these 5 options.  

  1. Newman’s Own Organics Pop’s Corn Light Butter Photo courtesy of Newman’s Own All of Newman’s Own Organics popcorns score points for non-toxic packaging and short ingredients lists. The Light Butter flavor contains just 4: organic corn, responsibly sourced organic palm oil, dairy-based natural butter flavor, and salt. ($4 for 3 2.8-oz bags, newmansownorganics.com) 2. Quinn Popcorn Olive Oil & Herbs Photo courtesy of Quinn Popcorn We love all of Quinn’s gourmet flavors, but this savory blend is an undisputed classic. Pop the organic kernels, then pour in the all-natural contents of the accompanying flavor pouch, shake vigorously, and devour. ($5 for 2 3.1-oz bags, quinnpopcorn.com) 3. Quinn Popcorn Hickory Smoked Cheddar Photo courtesy of Quinn Popcorn The quest for healthy, cheesy, popcorn ends here. This flavor (a winner of our Cleanest Packaged Food Awards) uses sunflower oil, actual cheddar cheese, smoked paprika, and sea salt to deliver finger-licking goodness. ($5 for 2 3.5-oz bags, quinnpopcorn.com)4. Black Jewell Microwave Popcorn No Salt No Oil Photo courtesy of Black Jewell This brand uses a proprietary strain of black corn—think of it as corn’s version of the heirloom tomato. These black kernels turn bright white when they pop, and although they look and taste the same as regular varieties, they’re rich in anthocyanins, a potent antioxidant found in other dark-colored plants like cherries and blueberries. Since there are only kernels in this package (no added oils or seasonings), whip up a bag and add a bit of salt or melted organic butter. ($4 for 3 3.5-oz bags, blackjewell.com)5. Black Jewell Microwave Popcorn Kettle Photo courtesy of Black Jewell This snacking standby is sweetened with stevia, keeping the calorie count at a light 120 per serving (with 3 servings per bag). Bonus: All Black Jewell popcorns come with the Non-GMO Project seal. ($4 for 3 3.5-oz bags, blackjewell.com) MORE: 10 Perfect Bedtime Snacks