Popcorn (Unsalted)

Potassium: LowerPhosphorus: LowerSodium: Lower

The bottom line

Air-popped and unsalted, popcorn is a National Kidney Foundation lower-phosphorus snack — the salt and butter are what change it.

A healthier swap

No swap needed in this form. Salted cinema popcorn is a different food entirely.

Understand the nutrients

Frequently asked questions

What about microwave popcorn?

Most flavoured microwave bags add salt and sometimes phosphate-containing flavourings. Plain air-popped, seasoned with herbs or a little parmesan-free spice mix, keeps the low ratings.

These pages are general education about eating with kidney disease, dialysis or a kidney transplant. They are not medical advice and do not replace your own care plan. Kidney diets are individual: what is right for you depends on your stage, your blood tests, your medicines and your other conditions. Always talk to your care team or renal dietitian before changing what you eat, and never stop or change a medicine because of something you read here.