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Delicious alternative healthy snacks for everyone
Intro
Best healthy snacks for family can often feel like a daunting task. With many options on supermarket shelves, it’s essential to look beyond the flashy packaging and focus on nutrition. Healthy snacks not only curb hunger between meals but also provide vital nutrients for growing children and busy adults. In this blog post, we will explore a selection of delicious, healthier alternatives to everyday snacks like chips and cookies. From nutritious fruit snacks to protein-packed options, these are the best snacks for kids and the whole family!
Understanding the Importance of Reading Ingredients
With all the marketing and labels claiming “Healthy,” it’s tempting to choose those items, but the real concern is the actual content of our foods. Through years of watching educational videos and reading insightful articles, I’ve come to understand the critical importance of scrutinizing ingredient labels to steer clear of snacks laden with preservatives, artificial flavors, and unhealthy fats. This habit has allowed me to consistently offer nutritious snacks that support my family’s health objectives.
Why should we avoid preservatives, artificial flavors, and unhealthy fats?
Avoiding preservatives, artificial flavors, and unhealthy fats is crucial for better health. These additives can lead to chronic health issues like heart disease, obesity, and diabetes. They often contribute to poor nutrition by replacing natural, nutrient-rich foods. Additionally, some preservatives and artificial ingredients may cause allergic reactions or other adverse effects. Prioritizing whole, natural foods support overall wellness and reduces the risk of long-term health problems.
How to choose better snacks for my family?
To choose better snacks for your family, go for unprocessed foods like fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds. Get snacks high in fiber and protein but low in added sugars and unhealthy fats. Read labels to avoid artificial ingredients and preservatives. You may also prepare homemade snacks, by making homemade snacks you’re in control on what ingredients to consume.
Top Healthy Snacks for the Family
As a mom, sometimes I don’t have time to make homemade snacks or make a delicious lemonade for my family. Yes, I sometimes just want to grab a quick sweet drink from the store, but always conscious about those ingredients. With so many items, what or which item to choose from?
Well, I have taken the time to review some snacks and drinks that you can find on Amazon or at a grocery store. Unfortunately, I can’t avoid all bad ingredients, so for me and my family, the fewer unhealthy ingredients the better.
I will highlight better snack alternatives to help you choose the best snacks for you and your family.
Barnana – Organic and Tasty Banana-Based Snacks
Barnana creates irresistible snacks from upcycled, perfectly ripe bananas, making them a sweet yet wholesome choice. Their organic banana-based treats offer satisfying texture and flavor, rich in potassium and fiber, perfect for keeping energy levels up throughout the day. These snacks are great for both kids and adults looking for a delicious, nutritious option.
Ingredients:
Bananas¹, Coconuts¹.
| Pros: | Cons: |
| Organic Ingredients | Texture May Not Appeal to Everyone |
| No Added Sugar | High in Natural Sugars |
| Gluten-Free and Vegan | Price |
| Good Source of Fiber and Potassium | Caloric Density |
| Convenient Snack | Limited Flavor Options |
| Sustainable Practices |
Snack Mates – Protein-Packed Snacks for Active Kids
Snack Mates delivers protein-packed snacks perfect for families on the go. Each serving supports active lifestyles with clean, high-quality ingredients, free from artificial preservatives. Ideal for outdoor adventures, these snacks provide the necessary nutrients to keep kids energized and growing strong.
The New Primal Snack Mates Chicken & Maple Sticks, Gluten Free Healthy Snacks for Kids, Low Sugar High Protein Back to School Snacks, Mini Paleo Jerky Meat Stick
- Ingredients:
- All-Natural Chicken raised without Hormones or Antivitotics, Honey, Sea Salt, Maple Syrup, Encapsulated Citric Acid, Cultured Celery Juice Powder (Celery Powder, Sea Salt), Black Pepper, Ginger, Coriander, In Beef Collagen Casing
| Pros: | Cons: |
| High in Protein | Price |
| Low in Sugar | Flavor Might Not Appeal to Everyone |
| Gluten-Free and Paleo-Friendly | May Contain Sodium |
| Convenient and Portable | Smaller Portion Size |
| Simple, Clean Ingredients | Texture |
| Kid-Friendly Flavor – Supports Ethical Sourcing |
The New Primal Snack Mates Turkey Sticks, Gluten Free Healthy Snacks for Kids, Low Sugar High Protein Back to School Snacks, Mini Paleo Jerky Meat Stick
- Ingredients:
- All -Natural Turkey raised without Hormones or Antibiotics, Honey, Sea Salt, Lemon Peel, Encapsulated Citric Acid, Black Pepper, Cultured Celery Juice Powder (Celery Powder, Sea Salt), Garlic Powder, Ginger, Onion Powder, White Pepper, In Beef Collagen Casing
| Pros: | Cons: |
| High in Protein | Price |
| Low in Sugar | Sodium Content |
| Gluten-Free and Paleo-Friendly | Flavor Might Not Appeal to Everyone |
| Clean Ingredients | Small Portion Size |
| Convenient and Portable | Texture Concerns |
| Kid-Friendly Flavor – Ethically Sourced Meats |
Navitas – Superfood Snacks for Ultimate Nutrition
Navitas specializes in superfood snacks that seamlessly blend health and flavor. Their diverse offerings include energy-boosting bites and nutrient-rich powders ideal for smoothies or yogurt. Packed with antioxidants and vitamins, Navitas snacks enhance your family’s diet while satisfying taste buds.
Navitas Organics Superfood Power Snacks, Cacao Goji, – Organic, Non-GMO, Gluten-Free
- Ingredients:
- Organic*: date paste*, Navitas Organic Superfood Blend™ (chia seed*, goji powder*, cacao powder*, lucuma powder*, maca powder*), sorghum*, raisin*, dark chocolate chip* (cane sugar*, cocoa liquor*, cocoa butter*), pumpkin seed*, sunflower seed*, sunflower seed butter*, natural chocolate flavor*, acerola cherry powder*, sea salt.
| Pros: | Cons: |
| Packed with Superfoods | High Caloric Density |
| Organic and Non-GMO | Contains Natural Sugars |
| Gluten-Free and Vegan – Rich in Antioxidants | Price |
| No Added Sugars – Satisfying Flavor and Texture | Texture Might Not Appeal to Everyone |
| Good Source of Fiber and Healthy Fats | Potential for Allergen Sensitivity |
| Convenient and Portable | Strong Flavor |
Friendly Grains – Whole Grain Snacks for a Balanced Diet
Friendly Grains crafts snacks are rich in fiber and nutrients, making them perfect for family gatherings or school lunchboxes. Their whole grain ingredients support healthy digestion and provide sustained energy, ensuring that kids and adults alike enjoy a satisfying and nutritious treat. Ideal for those seeking to incorporate more wholesome grains into their diet, these snacks offer both delicious taste and health benefits.
Friendly Grains – Crunchy Rollers – Organic Crispy Puffed Rice Rolls, Healthy for Adults and Kids
- Ingredients:
- Organic Brown Rice, Organic Cane Sugar, Organic Brown Rice Syrup, Organic White Rice
- Sea Salt
| Pros: | Cons: |
| Simple and Clean Ingredients | Limited Nutritional Value |
| Low in Calories and Sugar | Light Snack |
| Whole Grains | Contains Added Sugars |
| Kid-Friendly and Adult-Friendly | Texture Preference |
| Gluten-Free and Allergen-Friendly | May Be Considered Pricey |
| Convenient and Portable |
Jackson’s Sweet Potato – Healthy and Delicious Chips
Jackson’s Sweet Potato Chips provide a crispy and flavorful alternative to traditional chips. Made from high-quality sweet potatoes and cooked in nutrient-rich coconut oil, they are both satisfying and nutritious. These chips are a good source of vitamins A and C, and are gluten-free, making them a smart choice for kids and adults who love a crunchy snack.
Jackson’s Sweet Potato Kettle Chips Avocado Oil Variety Pack made with Premium Oils, Sea Salt, Ranch, BBQ, and Habanero Nacho Flavors – Allergen-friendly, Gluten Free, Vegan
- Ingredients:
- Carolina BBQ: Sweet Potatoes, Avocado Oil, Carolina BBQ Seasoning Blend (Sugar, Vinegar Powder (Maltodextrin, White Distilled Vinegar), Sea Salt, Tomato Powder, Spices, Citric Acid, Torula Yeast, Garlic Powder, Yeast Extract, Extractives of Paprika, Natural Smoke Flavor.
- Sea Salt: Sweet Potatoes, Avocado Oil, Sea Salt.
- Farmhouse Ranch: Sweet Potatoes, Avocado Oil, Farmhouse Ranch Seasoning Blend (Maltodextrin, Salt, Onion Powder, Tomato Powder, Garlic Powder, Tapioca Dextrose, Natural Flavors, Dehydrated Green Bell Pepper, Spices, Contains 2% or Less of: Yeast Extract, Lactic Acid Powder, Citric Acid).
- Habanero Nacho: Sweet Potatoes, Avocado Oil, Habanero Nacho Seasoning (Maltodextrin, Salt, Spices, Tomato Powder, OnionPowder, Chili Powder (Chili Pepper, Spices, Salt, Garlic Flavor), Contains 2% or Less of: Garlic Powder, Natural Flavors (Including Habanero), Yeast Extract, Lactic Acid Powder, Paprika Extract, Citric Acid).
| Pros: | Cons: |
| Healthier Cooking Oil – Suitable for Various Diets | Higher Price Point |
| Gluten-Free and Non-GMO | High Caloric and Fat Content |
| Simple, Clean Ingredients | Potentially High in Sodium |
| Variety Pack Offers Flavor Options | Flavor Might Not Appeal to Everyone |
| Sweet Potato Base | Limited Fiber Compared to Whole Sweet Potatoes |
| Kettle-Cooked for Extra Crunch | Not a Low-Carb Snack |
Nurture Life – Ready-to-Drink Smoothies for Busy Families
Nurture Life takes convenience to the next level by offering ready-drink smoothies and snacks tailored for kids. Each drink is crafted with nutrition in mind, ensuring your family is nourished with every drink. With an emphasis on whole foods and balanced meals, Nurture Life can help parents simplify smoothy while still providing wholesome, tasty options for their little ones.
Nurture Life Superfood Smoothies, Healthy Toddler Snacks To-Go w/Hidden Fruits & Veggies, Fruit Smoothies for Kids, Organic Drink for Children, No Sugar Added
- Ingredients:
- Berry-Full!: Apple juice*, blueberries*, water, banana, strawberries*, raspberries*, avocado, beet juice, kale, acai* *ORGANIC
| Pros: | Cons: |
| Hidden Fruits and Vegetables | Price |
| No Added Sugar | Shelf Life and Storage |
| Organic Ingredients | Caloric Contect |
| Convenient and Portable | Natural Sugars |
| Nutrient-Dense | Limited Fiber |
| No Artificial Additives |
Nuture Life Superfood Smoothies, Healthy Toddler Snacks To-Go w/Hidden Fruits & Veggies, Fruit Smoothies for Kids, No Sugar Added,
- Ingredients:
- Berry-full!: Apple juice*, blueberries*, water, banana, strawberries*, raspberries*, avocado, beet juice, kale, acai* *ORGANIC Mango-Go!: Mango*, water, pineapple juice, butternut squash, peaches* (peaches*, ascorbic acid), carrots, orange juice*, banana, turmeric* *ORGANIC Straw-Nana!: Strawberries*, apple juice*, banana, water, red dragon fruit*, butternut squash, beets, vanilla bean powder*, dried goji berries* *ORGANIC
| Pros: | Cons: |
| Healthy Ingredients | Price |
| No Added Sugar | Potential Allergens |
| Variety of Flavors | Limited Shelf Life |
| Convenient on the Go Snack | Taste Preferences |
| Appeals to picky eaters | Packaging Waste |
| Organic, Non-GMO | Sugar from Fruits |
Gimme – Nutritious Seaweed Snacks
Gimme’s seaweed snacks bring a unique twist to your family’s snack routine with their crispy, savory sheets packed full of essential vitamins and minerals. These low-calorie snacks are a great source of omega-3 fatty acids and iodine, making them both nutritious and delicious. Perfect for lunchboxes or an afternoon pick-me-up, Gimme seaweed snacks are a healthy alternative to traditional chips and crackers, offering a burst of umami flavor that both kids and adults will love.
Gimme Seaweed – Sea Salt – 20 Count – Organic Roasted Seaweed Sheets – Keto, Vegan, Gluten Free – Great Source of Iodine & Omega 3’s
- Ingredients:
- Organic Seaweed, Organic Sunflower Oil, Sea Salt
| Pros: | Cons: |
| Healthier Cooking Oil – Suitable for Various Diets | Higher Price Point |
| Gluten-Free and Non-GMO | High Caloric and Fat Content |
| Simple, Clean Ingredients | Potentially High in Sodium |
| Variety Pack Offers Flavor Options | Flavor Might Not Appeal to Everyone |
| Sweet Potato Base | Limited Fiber Compared to Whole Sweet Potatoes |
| Kettle-Cooked for Extra Crunch | Not a Low-Carb Snack |
Simple Mills – Gluten-Free and Delicious Baked Goods
Simple Mills crafts gluten-free baked goods that prioritize nutrition without sacrificing taste. Their range includes cookies, crackers, and baking mixes made from natural ingredients like almond flour and coconut sugar. Ideal for families looking for healthier options, Simple Mills products offer a delightful crunch and sweetness without the guilt. Perfect for snack time or dessert, these treats ensure everyone enjoys a tasty, wholesome experience.
Simple Mills Almond Flour Crackers, Fine Ground Sea Salt – Gluten Free, Vegan, Healthy Snacks
- Ingredients:
- Nut and Seed Flour Blend (Almonds, Sunflower Seeds, Flax Seeds), Tapioca, Cassava, Organic Sunflower Oil, Sea Salt, Organic Onion, Organic Garlic, Rosemary Extract (For Freshness)
| Pros: | Cons: |
| Gluten-Free and Vegan – Convenient and Versatile | Higher Price Point |
| Made with Nutritious Ingredients | Caloric Density |
| No Artificial Additives | May Not Appeal to Everyone’s Taste |
| Lower in Carbohydrates | Potential Allergen |
| Good Source of Healthy Fats | Can Be High in Fat |
| Light and Crisp Texture | Small Serving Size – Texture Might Vary |
Bear Real Fruit Snack Rolls – Fruit Snacks with No Added Sugar
Bear Real Fruit Snack Rolls offer a naturally sweet and chewy snack made solely from real fruit, ensuring each bite is packed with pure fruity goodness. Free from added sugars, artificial flavors, and preservatives, these snack rolls provide a wholesome treat that kids will love. Perfect for lunchboxes or an after-school snack, Bear Real Fruit Snack Rolls are a delightful way for children to enjoy the natural sweetness of fruit in a fun, roll-up form.
BEAR Real Fruit Snack Rolls – Gluten Free, Vegan, and Non-GMO – Strawberry – Healthy School And Lunch Snacks For Kids And Adults
- Ingredients:
- Apples, Pears, Strawberries, Black Carrot Extract
| Pros: | Cons: |
| Made with Real Fruit | Natural Sugars Still Present |
| Gluten-Free and Vegan | Price |
| Non-GMO | Caloric Density |
| No Added Sugars | Texture May Not Appeal to Everyone |
| Convenient and Portable | Limited Fiber Content |
| Simple Ingredients – Tasty and Kid-Friendly | Portion Control |
Siete Chips – Grain-Free Chips for Everyone
Siete’s grain-free chips are crafted from cassava and other wholesome ingredients, offering a tasty alternative for those with dietary restrictions. Available in a variety of flavors, from spicy to savory, these chips ensure everyone in the family finds a favorite. Perfect for gatherings, movie nights, or a quick snack, Siete Chips combine bold flavors with clean ingredients, making them both delicious and nutritious. Enjoy the satisfying crunch and vibrant taste without any guilt, knowing you’re choosing a healthier snack option for your loved ones.
Siete Family Foods Sea Salt Potato Chips
- Ingredients:
- Potatoes, Avocado Oil, Distilled White Vinegar Powder, Sea Salt Serrano Powder, Citric Acid
| Pros: | Cons: |
| Clean Ingredients | Higher Price Point |
| Use of Avocado Oil | Caloric and Fat Content |
| Gluten-Free | Limited Flavor Variety |
| No Artificial Preservatives or Colors | Texture |
| Simple Flavor | Salt Content |
| Portion Control |
Siete Grain Free Mexican Shortbread Cookies
- Ingredients:
- Grain Free Flour Blend (Almond Flour, Tapioca Flour, Arrowroot Flour, Cassava Flour, Chickpea Flour), Coconut Oil, Coconut Sugar, Avocado Oil, Apple Cider Vinegar, Sea Salt, Cinnamon, Baking Soda, Orange Peel Powder, Vanilla Extract, Jasmine Tea Extract.
| Pros: | Cons: |
| Grain-Free and Gluten Free | Price |
| Paleo-Friendly | Texture |
| Dairy-Free | Availability |
| Clean Ingredients | Sugar Content |
| Lower Carb | Taste Variation |
| Flavorful with a Twist |
The Benefits of Choosing PLEZi for Your Kids
One of the key advantages of choosing PLEZi for your kids is the absence of added sugars. With rising concerns about sugar-related health issues like obesity, diabetes, and cavities, parents can feel reassured that PLEZi offers a healthier choice without compromising flavor. These drinks are crafted with natural ingredients, allowing parents to know exactly what their children are consuming.
Additionally, PLEZi drinks are lower in calories than traditional juice options, making them a smart choice for hydration without the extra calories that contribute to weight gain. The combination of real fruit and vegetable juices not only enhances the flavor but also adds essential vitamins and minerals, supporting your child’s overall growth and development.
Another benefit is the convenient packaging that PLEZi offers, making it easy to take on the go. Whether you’re heading to the park, a playdate, or embarking on a road trip, PLEZi is a perfect companion to keep kids hydrated and satisfied. The variety of fruity flavors ensures that there’s something for every child’s palate, making hydration both fun and healthy.
Parents can feel confident in their choice, knowing that PLEZi is free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. This focus on quality and natural ingredients underscores why PLEZi stands out as one of the best no sugar added drinks for kids.
- Ingredients:
- Tropical Punch: Water, Apple Juice Concentrate, Soluble Vegetable Fiber, Citric Acid, Vegetable Juice (Color), Watermelon Juice Concentrate, Potassium Citrate, Ascorbic Acid, Sodium Citrate, Magnesium Lactate, Natural Flavors, Stevia Leaf Extract, Monk Fruit Extract, Zinc Oxide.
- Apple Splash: Water, Apple Juice Concentrate, Soluble Vegetable Fiber, Citric Acid, Watermelon Juice Concentrate, Potassium Citrate, Ascorbic Acid, Sodium Citrate, Magnesium Lactate, Natural Flavors, Malic Acid, Stevia Leaf Extract, Pectin, Monk Fruit Extract, Zinc Oxide.
| Pros: | Cons: |
| No Added Sugar | Natural Flavors |
| Contains Fiber | Lower Fruit Content |
| Kid-Friendly Flavors | Potential Additives |
| Hydrating and Refreshing | Cost |
| Lower in Calories | Potential for Overconsumption |
| Promotes Healthier Choices |
Lesser Evil Organic Popcorn
Lesser Evil Organic Popcorn is a delicious, healthy snack that is air-popped and made form finest organic, non-GMO ingredients. This popcorn is seasoned with Himalayan pink salt and coconut oil. Leser Evil Organic Popcorn ensures that it is free from synthetic pesticides and harmful chemicals.
Lesser Evil Popcorn is low in caloties and high in fiber, great snack that supports digestive health. Coconut oil provides healthy fats that can help improve cholesterol and support heart health. Himalayan pink salt minerals without the excessive sodium found in regular table salt. This popcorn is wholesome alternative to traditional snack foods, with nutritious option for snack eaters.
- Ingredients:
- Ornganic Non-GMO Popcorn, Organic Coconut Oil, Himalayan Salt, Organic Butter-Type Flavor
| Pros: | Cons: |
| Organic Ingredients | Price |
| Non-GMO | Flavor Profile |
| Gluten-Free | Caloric Content |
| Sustainable | Availability |
| Flavor | |
That’s it. Variety Pack 100% Natural Real Fruit Bars
The That’s it. Variety Pack 100% Natual Real Fruit Bar is a convenient, and healthy alternative snack that features an assortment of fruit bars made from just 2 ingredients. Each bar is packed with natural flavors, free from added sugars, preservatives, or artificial ingredients. That’s it makes it an ideal choice for those seeking a nutritious, and with few ingredients. These bars are vegan, gluten-free, non-GMO, and allergy – friendly. That’s it. is perfect for on-the-go snacking, with a tasty and wholesome to satisfy your craving.
- Ingredients:
- Apples, Strawberries
- Apples, Bluberries
- Apples, Manfoes
| Pros: | Cons: |
| 100% Natural Ingredients | Small Portion Size |
| No Added Sugars | Price |
| Vegan & Gluten – Free | Taste Preferences |
| High in Fiber | Sticky Texture |
| Non-GMO | Allergy Concerns |
| Low-Calorie | Shelf Stability |
That’s it. Mini Fruit Bars Gift Pouch, No Sugar Added, Plant-Based, Vegan & Gluten Free, Paleo, Non-GMO
- Ingredients:
- Apples, Bananas
- Apples, Mangoes
- Apple, Blueberries
| Pros: | Cons: |
| 100% Natural Ingredients | Price |
| No Added Sugar | Taste Preferences |
| Vegan & Gluten-Free | Allergy Concerns |
| High in Fiber | Small Portion Size |
| Non-GMO | |
| Kid-Friendly |
References:
- Medically Reviewed by May Zhu, RDN – 5 Harmful Food Ingredients Families Should Avoid: 5 Harmful Food Ingredients Families Should Avoid | Begin Health – Begin Health, Inc.
Coconut Oil: Is it Good for You?: Coconut Oil: Nutrition Information, Health Benefits and Risks (webmd.com)
8 Evidence-Based Health Benefits of Avocado Oil: 8 Evidence-Based Health Benefits of Avocado Oil (healthline.com)