Caramel popcorn is a sweet twist on the classic, plain version of the snack. Instead of being coated with butter or salt, caramel popcorn is coated with a caramel mixture made with butter, milk, sugar and cream. While plain popcorn is rich in fiber, caramel popcorn is not as healthy as the plain version.
Calories
A 1-oz. serving of caramel coated popcorn has about 122 calories, according to the nutritional database CalorieKing.com. Many people who are trying to maintain their weight or lose weight will watch their calorie intake. A 1-oz. serving of popcorn is very small, and many people end up eating several hundred calories worth of caramel popcorn.
Fat
Each 1-oz. serving of caramel corn has 3.6 g of total fat and 1 g of saturated fat, according to CalorieKing.com. The American Heart Association states that saturated fat raises the risk of heart disease and stroke. Saturated fat comes from animal products like meat, milk, cream and butter. Since it can clog the arteries, the American Heart Association recommends limiting saturated fat intake to 7 percent of daily calories.
Protein
Protein is necessary to preserve muscle mass and provide energy for the body. Caramel popcorn is not an excellent source of protein, but it does provide a small amount. CalorieKing.com states that a 1-oz. serving of caramel corn has 1.1 g of dietary protein.
Carbohydrates
Caramel popcorn has 22.5 g of total carbohydrates and 1.5 g of fiber per 1-oz. serving, according to CalorieKing.com. Some types of carbohydrates are healthy, such as whole grains, fruits and vegetables. Sugar is another type of carbohydrate which does not have nutritional benefits. CalorieKing.com also states that a serving of caramel popcorn has 15.1 g of sugars, which make up the majority of it carbohydrates.
Potassium
Potassium is a mineral found in foods like bananas, potatoes and kiwis. There are 31 mg of potassium in each ounce of caramel popcorn, states CalorieKing.com. Potassium is required by the body to maintain a normal balance of water. It has helps to regulate blood pressure and muscle contraction. The University of Maryland Medical Center states that children 10 years and older, as well as adults, need 2,000 mg of potassium a day for optimal health.
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