The Top Supermarket Snacks Finally Revealed by a Dietitian – You'll Never Guess Number One!
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Navigating the snack aisles of your local supermarket can feel like a daunting task, especially when you're trying to make healthy choices. With a plethora of options ranging from high protein to low carb, and from gluten-free to low sugar, it's easy to get lost in a sea of seemingly nutritious snacks. But fear not, dear members of the Seniors Discount Club, because a dietitian has come to our rescue, rating the top supermarket snacks that are not only delicious but also nutritionally sound.
Before we dive into the snack suggestions, let's talk about what makes a snack a good choice. Ideally, a snack should provide a balance of macronutrients – that's proteins, carbohydrates, and fats – to keep you satisfied and energized until your next meal. It should also be made from whole foods and minimally processed ingredients, and it should be low in added sugars and unhealthy fats.
Now, let's reveal the top supermarket snacks as rated by dietitian Susie Burrell, who not only has a wealth of nutritional knowledge but also holds a Master’s degree in coaching psychology, giving her a unique perspective on the psychology of eating and snacking.
1. MunchMe Pumpkin Seed Snacks
At the top of the list are the MunchMe Pumpkin Seed snacks. Unlike many processed snack foods, these bites are made with a minimal list of ingredients and boast an impressive 8 grams of protein per serving. They're also rich in plant-based omega-3 fatty acids, thanks to the generous amount of pumpkin seeds, and contain only 2 grams of sugars per serve. This makes them an excellent choice for a nutritious and satisfying snack.
2. YoPro Yoghurt Pouches
Yoghurt is a timeless snack choice, and YoPro Yoghurt Pouches are a standout option. These yoghurts are high in protein, offering over 15 grams per serve, and are made with concentrated milk to achieve this without added sugars. With fewer than 100 calories per pouch, pairing one with a piece of fruit can create a high-protein, high-fibre snack that will keep you full for hours.
3. Carman’s Nut Bars
Nut bars are a dime a dozen, but Carman’s Nut Bars are a cut above the rest. They contain a relatively clean ingredient list, 5 grams of protein, and less than 5 grams of added sugars per bar. What sets them apart is the variety of nuts used, including almonds and hazelnuts, which enhance the nutrient profile and provide a range of healthy fats.
4. The Bar Counter Protein Bars
While they may be ultra-processed, The Bar Counter Protein Bars are one of the few protein bars that are low in calories, free from added sugars, and offer more than 10 grams of protein per serve. They're a convenient option to have on hand when you need a quick protein boost and are known for their palatable taste, which can be rare in protein bars.
5. Roasted Fava Beans
Legume-based snacks like roasted fava beans are gaining popularity for their high protein content. A 25-gram serving can provide around 7 grams of protein, almost no sugars, and about 2 grams of dietary fibre. They come in various flavours and individual packs, making them a perfect portion-controlled snack to carry with you.
6. Organic Roasted Seaweed
For those who enjoy its unique taste, seaweed is not only low in calories but also a natural source of iodine, essential for thyroid health. This nutrient is often lacking in Australian diets, making seaweed a smart choice for a crunchy, low-calorie, and gluten-free snack.
7. Cheese and Crackers
Finally, the classic combination of cheese and crackers offers a balanced mix of carbohydrates and protein for around 150 calories per serving, along with a good dose of calcium. Opt for rustic crackers over rice or water crackers for a slightly better nutritional profile.
Remember, while these snacks are dietitian-approved, it's important to enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet. And don't forget to stay hydrated with plenty of water throughout the day!
Now, we'd love to hear from you! Have you tried any of these snacks, or do you have a go-to healthy snack that didn't make the list? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. Happy snacking!
Before we dive into the snack suggestions, let's talk about what makes a snack a good choice. Ideally, a snack should provide a balance of macronutrients – that's proteins, carbohydrates, and fats – to keep you satisfied and energized until your next meal. It should also be made from whole foods and minimally processed ingredients, and it should be low in added sugars and unhealthy fats.
Now, let's reveal the top supermarket snacks as rated by dietitian Susie Burrell, who not only has a wealth of nutritional knowledge but also holds a Master’s degree in coaching psychology, giving her a unique perspective on the psychology of eating and snacking.
Yoghurt and nuts were among a dietitian's top picks for healthy snacks. Image Credit: Pexels/Vlad Chetan
1. MunchMe Pumpkin Seed Snacks
At the top of the list are the MunchMe Pumpkin Seed snacks. Unlike many processed snack foods, these bites are made with a minimal list of ingredients and boast an impressive 8 grams of protein per serving. They're also rich in plant-based omega-3 fatty acids, thanks to the generous amount of pumpkin seeds, and contain only 2 grams of sugars per serve. This makes them an excellent choice for a nutritious and satisfying snack.
2. YoPro Yoghurt Pouches
Yoghurt is a timeless snack choice, and YoPro Yoghurt Pouches are a standout option. These yoghurts are high in protein, offering over 15 grams per serve, and are made with concentrated milk to achieve this without added sugars. With fewer than 100 calories per pouch, pairing one with a piece of fruit can create a high-protein, high-fibre snack that will keep you full for hours.
3. Carman’s Nut Bars
Nut bars are a dime a dozen, but Carman’s Nut Bars are a cut above the rest. They contain a relatively clean ingredient list, 5 grams of protein, and less than 5 grams of added sugars per bar. What sets them apart is the variety of nuts used, including almonds and hazelnuts, which enhance the nutrient profile and provide a range of healthy fats.
4. The Bar Counter Protein Bars
While they may be ultra-processed, The Bar Counter Protein Bars are one of the few protein bars that are low in calories, free from added sugars, and offer more than 10 grams of protein per serve. They're a convenient option to have on hand when you need a quick protein boost and are known for their palatable taste, which can be rare in protein bars.
5. Roasted Fava Beans
Legume-based snacks like roasted fava beans are gaining popularity for their high protein content. A 25-gram serving can provide around 7 grams of protein, almost no sugars, and about 2 grams of dietary fibre. They come in various flavours and individual packs, making them a perfect portion-controlled snack to carry with you.
6. Organic Roasted Seaweed
For those who enjoy its unique taste, seaweed is not only low in calories but also a natural source of iodine, essential for thyroid health. This nutrient is often lacking in Australian diets, making seaweed a smart choice for a crunchy, low-calorie, and gluten-free snack.
7. Cheese and Crackers
Finally, the classic combination of cheese and crackers offers a balanced mix of carbohydrates and protein for around 150 calories per serving, along with a good dose of calcium. Opt for rustic crackers over rice or water crackers for a slightly better nutritional profile.
Remember, while these snacks are dietitian-approved, it's important to enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet. And don't forget to stay hydrated with plenty of water throughout the day!
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