The Lean Green Bean https://www.theleangreenbean.com Balanced. Simple. Real. Thu, 25 Sep 2025 17:17:56 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9 https://www.theleangreenbean.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/cropped-TLGB_Favicon_700x700-32x32.png The Lean Green Bean https://www.theleangreenbean.com 32 32 50+ Easy Homemade Snacks To Make https://www.theleangreenbean.com/homemade-snacks-to-make/ https://www.theleangreenbean.com/homemade-snacks-to-make/#respond Thu, 25 Sep 2025 17:17:54 +0000 https://www.theleangreenbean.com/?p=83822 Here are some ideas for easy homemade snacks to make that are healthy and kid-friendly. Many can be made ahead of time and are great for eating on the go! Hi Friends! Today we’re talking about homemade snacks. As a busy mom of three, I’m well aware that sometimes store-bought snacks are not only easier […]]]>

Here are some ideas for easy homemade snacks to make that are healthy and kid-friendly. Many can be made ahead of time and are great for eating on the go!

easy homemade snacks to make

Hi Friends!

Today we’re talking about homemade snacks. As a busy mom of three, I’m well aware that sometimes store-bought snacks are not only easier but just plain necessary. However, I’ve also built up a fairly large repertoire of easy, healthy homemade snacks over the past 10 years.

Each week, I try to spend 1-2 hours doing food prep for the week ahead. (Check out my Food Prep Masterclass if you want to learn how to do this too!) I often focus on component meal prep and snacks so that I have things on hand to feed my kids when they’re hungry after school, sports etc.

Are homemade snacks healthier than store-bought?

As a Registered Dietitian, what I like best about homemade snacks is that you control the ingredients. You can control the amount of added sugar, sodium, etc that you put into the snacks as well as the ingredients you use to make them.

You can add extra nutrient boosts like hemp hearts, chia seeds, flax etc. (Learn about the nutritional benefits of seeds here) and you can customize the ingredients to your preferences of your family.

In addition, making homemade snacks is often cheaper than buying something similar at the store.


Tips For Homemade Snack Success

Some of my best tips for success with making homemade snacks:

  • Pick 1-2 snacks you know they like that can be made ahead of time and served several times during the week – things like a batch of muffins or bars, some energy bites, homemade trail mix etc. As you get more comfortable with food prep, you can branch out and prep even more!
  • Use them for other meals too! Often the things you prep for snack time make a great addition to breakfast or to lunch boxes. Once you see how much it helps you have healthy options on hand, you’re more likely to commit to prepping them every week.
  • Keep it simple – Don’t choose elaborate snacks that require tons of prep or assembly time.
  • Use your freezer – The freezer can be a great place to stash pre-portioned snacks like smoothies, energy balls, waffles, etc.

Easy Homemade Snacks Recipes

So without further ado, here’s a roundup of some easy homemade snacks for you to try:

no bake homemade snacks

No-Bake Homemade Snacks

No-bake snacks are quick and easy, no oven required! Here are some ideas for everything from dips to pudding to energy balls!


quick 5 minute homemade snacks

Quick 5-Minute Homemade Snacks

No need to spend forever making healthy homemade snacks! Here are some quick ideas that are ready in 5 minutes or less!

  • Buffalo Ranch Popcorn – Popcorn is super easy to make at home. Try it flavored or make plain healthy microwave popcorn. Or turn it into Roasted Chickpea Snack Mix (use store-bought roasted chickpeas to make assembly faster!)
  • Microwave Egg Sandwich – Cook the egg in the microwave and then add your favorites like cheese, avocado or other condiments. Or skip the bread and try an egg wrap.
  • Avocado Toast – My kids love plain avocado toast with salt but you can also jazz it up with smoked salmon or egg for protein, veggies and your favorite seasonings
  • Turkey Cheddar Rollups – Use your favorite deli meat like turkey, ham or roast beef and whatever cheese you like best!
  • Yogurt Bowl – Start with a base of plain yogurt or cottage cheese and top with fresh fruit, nuts and seeds, cinnamon and a handful of chocolate chips
  • Microwave Nachos – A great way to use up leftover protein for a mid-day snack that’s ready in minutes. Or skip the meat and use some canned beans or lentils!

make ahead snacks for busy weeks

Make-Ahead Snacks for Busy Weeks

Can I meal prep homemade snacks?

Yes! Food prep is the best way to set yourself up for success. Spending just a little time prepping on the weekends allows you to have healthy snacks to quickly grab as needed. Here are some make-ahead snack ideas that you can prep for busy weeks and grab to quickly feed yourself and the kids.


kid-friendly snacks

Kid-Favorite Snacks

Not every healthy snack is kid-friendly but here are a few recipes my kids love to eat when they get home from school after a long day.

  • Pizza Muffins – A fun change from traditional pizza!
  • Cream Cheese Fruit Dip – Made with Greek yogurt for extra protein, it’s perfect with their favorite fruits!
  • Yogurt Parfaits – If your kids don’t like granola, use their favorite cereal! Or if they prefer frozen treats, try yogurt popsicles or frozen yogurt bark.
  • Apple Nachos – Drizzle sliced apples with yogurt, peanut butter or even melted chocolate, then add toppings!
  • Mini pancakes – Easy to make some for breakfast and double the batch so you have some for snack time!
  • Breakfast cookies – Not just for breakfast! Healthy cookies stuffed with wholesome ingredients make a great snack!

homemade snacks for parties and holidays

Homemade Snacks for Special Occasions (Parties & Holidays)

Here are some easy snack recipes that are great for feeding a crowd at your next party or holiday gathering!


healthy homemade road trip snacks

Homemade Snacks for Road Trips

Here are some more snacks that would be great for road trips in addition to some of the ones mentioned above like popcorn, energy balls, protein bars, hard-boiled eggs and more!

  • Roasted Chickpeas – Crunchy snacks are always great for road trips. Easy to grab a handful while driving. If you don’t want them plain, add them to a trail mix or mix with some roasted nuts.
  • Mini Muffins – Mini muffins are perfect for road trips because they’re bite-sized! Easy to eat without getting crumbs everywhere.
  • Fruit Leather – Better than store-bought fruit rollups and a great fruit option for the car because it’s low mess!
  • Zesty Italian Wrap – Wraps can be great for road trips because they’re easy to hold in one hand and tend to have less crumbs than a traditional sandwich. Or try homemade uncrustables for the kids- you can make a bunch to freeze and let them thaw on the drive.
  • Baked Sweet Potato Chips – Skip the chip aisle at the store and make some homemade chips! You can do a mix of root veggies or just sweet potato. Pack your favorite dip for scooping.
  • Homemade yogurt tubes – No spoons required! Just blend plain yogurt and fruit and pour into tubes. Freeze and pack in the cooler!

gluten-free homemade snacks

Gluten-free Homemade Snacks

Many of the snacks already mentioned can be made gluten-free as is or with just a few simple ingredient swaps! Here are some more ideas:

  • Pumpkin Peanut Butter No Bake Bars – Use certified gluten-free oats if needed and you can easily make almost any no-bake bars, energy balls and/or protein bars gluten-free at home!
  • Cottage Cheese Bowl – All these components can be prepped ahead of time and thrown together quickly for a savory mid-day snack. Or use cottage cheese as a base and add berries and granola.
  • Baked Oatmeal Cups – All the goodness of oatmeal in a baked snack that’s quick and easy to eat!
  • Chicken Salad – You can use canned chicken or tuna or even rotisserie chicken. I’ve found kids tend to prefer chicken salad over tuna salad. Make it creamy with mayo, Greek yogurt or even hummus and keep it basic with just spices or add mix-ins like celery, grapes, chopped apples etc. Serve with gluten-free crackers!

easy protein snacks

Protein Homemade Snacks

What homemade snacks are high in protein?

If you’re looking to eat more protein, the good news is there are tons of great snack options that are high in protein. And many of them can easily be made at home. Here are 30+ Easy Protein Snacks.


FAQs About Making Snacks At Home

What are the easiest homemade snacks to make?

Most people think that simple snacks that don’t require more than a few ingredients or ones that can be made without an oven are the easiest. However, there are many other snacks, including baked goods, that can easily be made in one bowl with just a few ingredients and require only 5-10 minutes of active prep time before baking.

How long do homemade snacks last?

This depends on the snack but most should be good for about a week. Muffins and bars can be stored in fridge to prevent them from spoiling quickly or you can freeze half and pull them out later in the week. Things like energy balls can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months and snack mix/trail mix can be stored in the pantry in a sealed bag or container for 1-2 weeks.

What homemade snacks are good for kids’ lunch boxes?

Almost all of these snacks would be great additions to a child’s lunch box. Muffins, bars, trail mix, crackers, wraps, popcorn etc can easily be added to lunch box containers with multiple compartments. You can also add things like yogurt, pudding and dips to pair with fruits and veggies!

What are quick, homemade snacks for busy parents?

Easy grab and go protein-based snacks like hard-boiled eggs, tuna salad with crackers, smoothies and homemade trailmix can be great options for busy parents.

How can I make homemade snacks more appealing to picky eaters?

One of the easiest ways to make homemade snacks more appealing is to make them look like their store-bought favorites. Buy some fun goldfish cutters if you’re making homemade cheddar crackers, or use mini chocolate chips and try a copycat granola bar recipe. Even putting a homemade mix of plain yogurt and fruit into reusable yogurt tubes or pouches can be more appealing than just serving it in a bowl.

What are budget-friendly homemade snacks?

Many snacks can be budget-friendly, especially if you’re trying to replicate store-bought snacks. You’re often able to make a larger amount and portion yourself instead of having to buy snacks pre-portioned. Oat-based energy balls, homemade chips, pancakes and crackers can also be inexpensive.

How do I store different types of homemade snacks?

This depends on the type of snack. Many can be frozen and pulled out as needed or store in airtight containers in the pantry!


Here are some ideas for easy homemade snacks to make that are healthy and kid-friendly. Many can be made ahead of time and are great for eating on the go!

Enjoy!
–Lindsay–

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30+ Easy Protein Snacks https://www.theleangreenbean.com/easy-protein-snacks/ https://www.theleangreenbean.com/easy-protein-snacks/#respond Wed, 24 Sep 2025 16:09:10 +0000 https://www.theleangreenbean.com/?p=83593 This list of easy protein snacks is full of lots of 5-minute options for busy families! Everything from make-ahead protein options to quick protein snacks for busy parents! Hi friends! As an RD, I frequently get asked for high-protein snack ideas since getting enough protein is curently all the rage! I recently shared some Cottage […]]]>

This list of easy protein snacks is full of lots of 5-minute options for busy families! Everything from make-ahead protein options to quick protein snacks for busy parents!

easy protein snacks for busy families

Hi friends!

As an RD, I frequently get asked for high-protein snack ideas since getting enough protein is curently all the rage! I recently shared some Cottage Cheese Protein Snacks and now I’m back today to share more high-protein ideas!

Easy Healthy Snacks To Make

So if you’re looking for some high-protein snacks to make that taste good and require minimal time and effort, scroll down! I’ve got lots of ideas for you.

All of these snacks are quick and easy, selected with busy families in mind and many can be prepped ahead of time so they’re easy to grab during a busy week!


5 minute protein snacks - turkey rollups, smoothie, tuna salad, energy bites, yogurt parfait

5 Minute Protein Snacks (No Cooking Required)

If you have big protein goals, there are lots of quick and easy 5-minute protein snacks out there that don’t require any cooking! Here are a few ideas

  • Tuna Salad – Easy to whip up and can easily be customized to include more veggies, your favorite seasonings, etc. If you don’t like mayo, try using hummus or plain yogurt to make it creamy. Enjoy with crackers, put it in a wrap or sandwich, or serve with veggies like mini bell peppers for scooping!
  • Protein Energy Bites – Can easily be whipped up with a food processor and just a few ingredients like oats, protein powder and nut butter. Add more nuts and seeds like pepitas, hemp hearts, etc for extra protein!
  • Yogurt Parfait – Start with Greek yogurt and add your favorite toppings like fruit, chopped nuts and seeds, protein granola, etc to boost the protein content
  • Turkey and Cheese Rollups – Grab some thinly sliced turkey or ham and add to a wrap with sliced veggies and cheese, plus cream cheese, hummus and/or guacamole. Or skip the wrap and wrap the deli meat around the cheese and veggies.
  • Protein Smoothie – Endless flavor combination are possible. Use Greek yogurt or milk to add protein, plus a scoop or two of protein powder to increase the protein even more, plus your favorite frozen fruit and some hemp or seeds!

easy protein snacks for kids

Easy Protein Snack Ideas Kids Will Love

It can be tricky to get enough protein into your kids when all they seem to want are carbs and fruit, but here are a simple, kid-friendly ideas:

  • Chocolate milk – Pair a glass of chocolate milk with a high fiber muffin for a quick snack! If they’re not a fan of chocolate milk, swap for a container of lower sugar yogurt like Chobani or Siggis.
  • String cheese – String cheese typically has 7g protein per stick. Pair it with a handful of crackers or trail mix!
  • Protein pasta – Several different brand options out there- Barilla, Banza, etc and many taste just like regular pasta! Just add sauce if desired and serve!
  • Cereal and milk – Choose a low sugar cereal and top with milk. Add some fresh blueberries for sweetness! Here are some Low Sugar Cereals for Kids.
  • Frozen waffles – Look for a brand low in added sugar and sodium and high in protein. Top with nut butter! Here are some of the Best Healthy Frozen Waffles. Or make your own and freeze them.

Other ideas include energy bites, Lentil Banana Muffins, ham and cheese pinwheels, and even chicken nuggets! Here’s a great post from my friend and fellow RD Sally on Protein Snacks for Kids.


simple make ahead protein options

Simple Make-Ahead Protein Options

The easiest way to make sure you’re eating enough protein during the week is to prep it ahead of time. Lean protein like chicken and steak can be prepped ahead of time in large batches along with pancakes and patties that can be reheated during the week. And things like chia pudding and overnight oats are best made ahead of time as well!

  • Chia pudding – Make it with milk, add yogurt for more protein, sweeten with fruit and add fun mix-ins! If you’re not a fan of chia, try overnight oats instead!
  • Egg wraps – Eat these warm or cold, by themselves, or filled with your favorites like turkey, avocado and cheese. If you don’t want wraps, you could also make egg muffins or egg waffles.
  • Protein Pancakes – Lots of different options out there using oats, almond flour, protein powder, etc so you can find one that fits your needs!
  • Air fryer steak bites – quick and easy to cook and have on hand for meals and snacks. Or try meatballs if you don’t like steak.
  • Tuna Patties – An easy way to transform canned tuna into a portable snack.
  • Greek yogurt bark – Start with Greek yogurt and add whatever mix-ins you like – pepitas, hemp seeds, chopped nuts, fruit, granola, etc. You can also mix in some peanut butter! Spread it on parchment paper to freeze and then break into pieces. If you prefer, you can also spoon the mixture into popsicle molds so kids can eat it that way!

3 ingredient easy protein snacks

Easy Protein Snacks with 3 Ingredients or Less

Sometimes you just don’t have time for a complicated snack and you need something super simple with minimal ingredients. These ideas can be boiled down to 3 simple ingredients but can also easily be jazzed up with a few simple tweaks!

  • Cottage Cheese Bowl – Make them sweet or savory, Keep it simple with something like cottage cheese, fruit, pumpkin seeds or add extra ingredients if you want!
  • Homemade Lunchable – Keep it simple with turkey, cheese and crackers or add extra protein with hard boiled eggs and some fruit or veggies! Don’t like turkey? Use thinly sliced chicken breast! Here are some Healthy Crackers for Kids and Adults.
  • Avocado toast– Add smoked salmon or egg (or both!) for extra protein and seasonings of your choice!
  • Ground turkey taco – All you really need is a tortilla or taco shell, turkey taco meat and cheese. But you can easily take it up a level with a spoonful of guacamole or salsa!
  • Roasted chickpea trail mix – Popcorn, roasted chickpeas and peanuts make a great simple combo. Jazz it up a little more by adding plantain chips or dried fruit like raisins!

quick protein snacks for busy parents

Quick Protein Snacks for Busy Parents

If you’re a parent, you know how tough it is to find time to eat healthy snacks on a busy day. Here are some quick ideas that will still pack a protein punch!

  • Steamed edamame with salt – Cook in a skillet or look for the steamable bag to cook in the microwave!
  • Greek yogurt bagel with peanut butter – or skip the peanut butter and add a fried egg with a slice of cheese!
  • High protein dip with veggies – Use cottage cheese as the base and pick your favorite flavor combination!
  • No-Bake Protein Bars – If you’re not a fan of store-bought protein bars, try making your own!

Grab and Go Easy Protein Ideas

Need more ideas? Here are some Healthy High protein Snack Ideas I recommend. Some of my favorite grab and go options include:

  • Greek yogurt cups
  • Cottage cheese cups
  • Beef Stick
  • Protein Bar
  • Roasted Edamame or broad beans

Banana muffins made with lentils

FAQs About Easy Protein Snacks

What are the easiest protein snacks to make?

The easiest protein snacks to make require minimal ingredients and can be prepped in large batches. Simply cooking a big batch of chicken that you can throw in a wrap or taco, mixing up a dip made with Greek yogurt or cottage cheese that you can scoop with some high-protein crackers, or blending a smoothie with milk or yogurt, protein powder and fruit are great options.

What easy protein snacks require no cooking? I need quick 5-minute protein snacks?

You can still get your protein in even if you don’t have time to cook. Try simple, high protein snacks like tuna salad, protein energy bites, yogurt parfaits, turkey and cheese rollups or a simple protein smoothie.

What easy protein snacks to do kids actually eat?

There are lots of easy protein options out there that kids will eat! Try things like string cheese with crackers, a glass of chocolate milk and a high fiber muffin, a bowl of cereal and milk, frozen waffles or protein pasta with sauce!

What are simple 3-ingredient protein snacks?

Many snacks can be pared down to just 3 simple ingredients as a starting point if you’re really in a rush, but then can easily be expanded on or jazzed up if you have a couple extra minutes! Try a cottage cheese or yogurt bowl with fruit and nuts, homemade lunchables, avocado toast with smoked salmon or a fried egg, tacos or trail mix with popcorn, chickpeas and nuts.

How do you make protein snacks ahead of time?

Investing even just an hour of your time doing food prep can make a huge difference in your ability to eat well during the week ahead. Take my Food Prep Masterclass to learn everything you need to know to get started!

What easy protein snacks travel well for work?

Grab and go options like protein bars, beef sticks, trail mix and roasted edamame can be great options to throw in a bag for work and don’t need to be refrigerated.

What are the easiest protein snacks for meal prep?

Some of my favorite high-protein meal prep ideas include egg wraps or egg muffins, smoothies to keep in the freezer, energy bites or protein bars, tuna salad and lean protein in the air fryer like chicken and steak.

What easy protein snacks help with hunger during meals?

While protein is great, if you really want to stay full between meals, try to make sure you snacks include protein, fiber and/or healthy fats. Both fiber and fat will help with satiety. Things like whole grain avocado toast with a fried egg, a smoothie with high fiber muffin and anything made with beans, lentils and other legumes will help increase the fiber content of your snacks. I have lots of healthy muffins and bars made with beans and lentils.

What are budget-friendly easy protein snacks?

Beans and lentils are budget-friendly and can be a good source of both protein and fiber. Also canned tuna and chicken, edamame and plain Greek yogurt can be good options!


This list of easy protein snacks is full of lots of 5-minute options for busy families! Everything from make-ahead protein options to quick protein snacks for busy parents!

Enjoy!
–Lindsay–

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Individually Wrapped Snacks https://www.theleangreenbean.com/individually-wrapped-snacks/ https://www.theleangreenbean.com/individually-wrapped-snacks/#respond Mon, 25 Aug 2025 04:00:00 +0000 https://www.theleangreenbean.com/?p=39129 Looking for individually wrapped snacks for school, parties, sports games and more? Here are some healthy options from a Registered Dietitian. *Originally published 9/2021. Updated 9/2025* These healthy individually wrapped snacks are kid-friendly options to use for school snacks, classroom and birthday parties and sports team snacks. They’re simple, affordable and can often be purchased […]]]>

Looking for individually wrapped snacks for school, parties, sports games and more? Here are some healthy options from a Registered Dietitian.

individually wrapped snacks

*Originally published 9/2021. Updated 9/2025*

Hi friends!

I’m wrapping up my snack series with a post specifically dedicated to individually wrapped snacks. I shared several in my Healthy Amazon Snacks post but wanted to share some available from other stores as well. Single-serving snacks come in handy if you need to provide snacks for a whole classroom at school, for a sports team or party snacks, if you’re not allowed to send reusable containers and more.

Why You’ll Love These Individually Wrapped Snacks

There are lots of options out there for individual packages of cookies, chips and pretzels and I’ve included some of those. I also wanted to go beyond that and give you some healthy everyday options for both adults and kids. These snacks are:

  • Relatively healthy – I try to choose options that are lower in added sugar and sodium
  • Budget-friendly – Many can be purchased in bulk to save money since they’re shelf-stable and won’t get stale quickly!
  • Kid-approved – Most of these are choices my own kids eat and enjoy!

These items would also be great in lunch boxes. If you need more lunch box ideas, check out this resource: A Month of Easy Packed Lunches For Kids.

If you’re looking for more snack ideas, check out:


What are the best individually wrapped snacks for kids?

There are a good number of individually wrapped snacks out there and over the past few years, several healthier options have been created. While buying in bulk and packaging into individual portions can often be more cost-effective, all parents can tell you that there are times when you just need the work done for you.

What individually wrapped snacks are nut-free?

It can be tricky to find nut-free snack options if that’s something your school requires. Here are some ideas:

healthy individually packaged snacks for school

Healthy Individually Wrapped Snacks For School

These are some of my favorite individually wrapped snacks for school that are safe for nut-free schools and classrooms:


Which individually wrapped snacks are healthy?

There are lots of healthy options out there. When searching for snacks for my kids, I try to find options that have both protein and fiber to help keep them full or pair a carbohydrate snack with one that has some protein.

individual school snacks not nut free

Here are some options that make good school snacks that are not nut-free or may be processed in a facility with nuts:

Some chips/crackers I’ve seen in single-serving packs:


healthy snacks from amazon

If you prefer to buy your snacks online, see the post below:
I rounded up a bunch of individually wrapped snacks you can order from Amazon: Healthy Amazon Snacks.


individually wrapped party snacks

Which individually wrapped snacks for best for parties?

Need ideas for individually wrapped party snacks (or individually wrapped birthday treats)? Look for single-serving bags of things like:

  • Rule Breaker cookies
  • Gogosqueez fruit sauce/pudding
  • Kirkland Trail mix
  • Baked Lays Potato Chips
  • Skinny Pop Popcorn
  • Nature’s Bakery Fig Bars
  • Chex Mix
  • Popcorners
  • Quaker Reduced Sugar granola bars
  • Welch’s Reduced Sugar Fruit Snacks
  • Annie’s Bunnies

What’s the best place to buy individually wrapped snacks in bulk?

Costco is a great option if you have one near you, along with other warehouse stores like Sam’s Club, BJ’s etc. You can also look at online options like Amazon and even stores like Walmart sell bulk options. Shop around the stores available to you to find the best prices.

individually wrapped snacks Costco

Healthy Individually Wrapped Snacks Costco

Here are some of my favorite Costco snacks that can be found in small bags:

Nut-free:

  • Skinny Pop
  • That’s It Fruit Bar Minis
  • Made Good Granola Minis
  • Country Archer Mini Beef Sticks
  • Gogo Squeeze or fruit cups
  • Cheese Sticks
  • Babybel cheese
  • Kirkland Hard-Boiled Eggs
  • Wholly Guacamole or Made Good Foods Guacamole Minis
  • Kirkland hummus singles/ Sabra singles with pretzels
  • Whisps Cheese Crisps
  • Sun Chips

Not nut-free:

  • Trail Mix packets
  • Clif Kid Z Bars
  • Clif Nut Butter Bars
  • Kind Minis
  • Larabars
  • Kirkland Cheese Fruit & Nut Packs

For a full list of Costco snacks I like, see this post: Healthy Snacks At Costco For The Whole Family


trader joe's individually wrapped snacks

Healthy Trader Joe’s Individually Wrapped Snacks

Trader Joe’s has a lot of granola bars that are great options:

  • Trader Joe’s Raises The Bar
  • Trader Joe’s These Peanuts Went On A Date Bars
  • Trader Joe’s ABC Bars
  • Trader Joe’s Organic Hemp Seed Bars
  • Trader Joe’s Organic Chia Bars
  • Trader Joe’s This Coconut Brings Chocolate on a Date Bars
  • Trader Joe’s Mixed Berry Granola Bites
  • Peanut Butter and Jelly Frooze Balls
  • Trader Joe’s Apple Carrot Fruit Sauce Crushers
  • Trader Joe’s Squishers Yogurt Tubes
  • Chomps Meat Sticks

For a full list of my favorite Trader Joe’s Snacks see this post: 35+ Best Trader Joe’s Snacks


individually wrapped snacks walmart

Healthy Individually Wrapped Snacks Walmart

Need single-serving snacks from Walmart? Try these:

  • Stonyfield Organic Kids yogurt cups
  • Breakstone’s Cottage Doubles
  • Frigo Combo Pack – Colby Jack cheese & turkey sticks
  • Chobani drinkable yogurt
  • Horizon Organic shelf-stable milk
  • Great Value cheese sticks
  • GogoSqueez Morning Smoothies
  • Great Value Bursting Berry fruit pouches
  • Freshness Guaranteed Mild Guacamole (great with plantain chips!)
  • Wymans Just Fruit & Greek Yogurt Bites
  • Mamma Chia Squeeze
  • Great Value Unsweetened Applesauce
  • Great Value Diced Fruit in 100% juice
  • Belvita Soft Baked Cookies (a little higher in added sugar but also have some protein and fiber)
  • Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Date & Nut Bars (very similar to Larabars)
  • Happykid Bars
  • KIND Dark Chocolate Chunk Bars
  • KIND Nut Butter Filled Snack Bars
  • KIND Peanut Butter Breakfast Bars
  • Kashi Chocolate Almond Sea Salt Bars
  • Larabar Minis
  • Simple Mills Dark Chocolate Almond Soft Baked Bars
  • RX Kids Bars
  • Chex Mix Multipack

Here’s a full list of the Best Healthy Walmart Snacks.


What are the best individually wrapped snacks for adults?

Most of my snack posts are focused on kids because I have 3 of them and I feel like I’m constantly feeding them snacks. But adults need snacks too. A few of my favorite single servings snacks:

  • Larabars
  • String cheese + That’s It Fruit Bar
  • Kind Nut Butter Bars
  • Skinny Pop + Kirkland Hard-Boiled Eggs
  • Tuna Pouches + Simple Mills crackers
  • Fruit with single-serve nut butter

Individually wrapped snacks FAQs

Are there gluten-free individually wrapped snacks?

Here are some of the best gluten-free snacks. Some of my favorites include:

  • String cheese
  • Beef sticks
  • Yogurt
  • Popcorn
  • Hard-boiled eggs
  • Protein or snack bars like Aloha, KIND, Larabar
  • Trailmix

What individually wrapped snacks are high in protein?

Here’s a list of healthy high protein snack ideas. Some good options include:

  • Cottage cheese or yogurt cups
  • 8oz drinkable yogurt/kefir
  • Cheese sticks
  • Beef sticks
  • Nut and seed mix
  • Protein bars
  • Hard-boiled eggs
  • Tuna pouches

What individually wrapped snacks are good for travel and don’t need refrigeration?

Here are some healthy road trip snacks. Bars, meat sticks, individual trail mix packs and That’s It fruit bars are great for throwing into a purse or backpack.

What are the best low-sugar individually-wrapped snacks?

Plain yogurt, popcorn, beef sticks, nuts and seeds and protein chips can be good options. You can also look for bars and other snacks made with things like stevia, monk fruit etc vs real sugar.

Are there individually wrapped snacks for toddlers?

Here are some healthy snacks for toddlers. Some good options for that age include yogurt tubes and pouches, mini versions of full size granola bars, fruit pouches or bars made from 100% fruit, crackers with peanut butter, string cheese, etc.

Looking for individually wrapped snacks for school, parties, sports games and more? Here are some healthy options from a Registered Dietitian.

These healthy individually wrapped snacks are great for both kids and adults. They’re budget-friendly, easy to find and taste great as well!

Enjoy!
–Lindsay–

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Best Healthy Packaged Snacks https://www.theleangreenbean.com/healthy-packaged-snacks/ https://www.theleangreenbean.com/healthy-packaged-snacks/#comments Tue, 29 Jul 2025 04:00:00 +0000 https://www.theleangreenbean.com/?p=31198 A list of 50+ healthy packaged snacks for busy parents who are looking for some new ideas. Healthy store bought snacks when homemade snacks aren’t an option. *Originally published March 2018. Updated July 2025* These are some of the best healthy packaged snacks for kids and adults. They are nutritious, affordable and kid-friendly. They can […]]]>

A list of 50+ healthy packaged snacks for busy parents who are looking for some new ideas. Healthy store bought snacks when homemade snacks aren’t an option.

best healthy packaged snacks of 2025

*Originally published March 2018. Updated July 2025*

Hi Friends!

You guys know I’m a huge fan of making healthy homemade snacks, but there are times when store-bought, prepackaged options are both handy and necessary. We all know there are times when we need some individually wrapped snacks.

Why You’ll Love These Healthy Packaged Snacks

  • Easy to find – most of these should be available at your local grocery store
  • Variety- It can be easy to fall into a snack rut so here are lots of options to try
  • Affordable – Lots of budget-friendly options
  • Nutritious – Plenty of nutrient-dense choices with protein and fiber
  • Kid-friendly – Snacks that are both healthy and tasty!

Note- if you’re looking for store-specific snacks, I have you covered:


Healthy Packaged Snacks Notes:

  • This is not a sponsored post. None of these companies asked to be included or even knew I was putting this post together.
  • While I originally intended this round-up to be geared towards kids, there are a lot of things adults could enjoy as well.
  • We have not tried all of these. I repeat – I have not personally tried all of these, nor have my kids. I have no idea if my kids like them all and have no doubt there are some they would not eat.

This list is meant to provide inspiration. Everyone is free to make their own choices and have their own opinions


What Are The Healthiest Packaged Snacks For Adults and Kids?


healthy chips and crackers for kids

Healthy Chips and Crackers

Everyone loves a crunchy snack! These options are kid-friendly, low in added sugar and can be paired with sliced cheese or a healthy dip for a more satisfying snack! Check out this post for more of my favorite Healthy Crackers For Kids and Adults. My personal favorite are Crunchmaster crackers but there are too many visible seeds for my kids to enjoy them.

  • Triscuits thin crisps – 3g of protein, 4g of fiber, 0g added sugar – easier for kids to chew than regular Triscuits
  • Sun chips- 2g protein, 2g fiber, 2g added sugar
  • Plentils -3g protein, 1g fiber, 0g added sugar
  • RW Garcia Sweet Potato Crackers – 2g protein, 2g fiber, 0g added sugar
  • Simple Mills Pop’Ems – 2g protein, 1g fiber, 0g added sugar
  • Simple Mills Crackers – 3g protein, 2g fiber, 0g added sugar

Keep in mind many of these come in different flavors and the nutrition info may vary!


healthy crunchy snacks

Healthy Crunchy Snacks

Here are more snack ideas that can provide that satisfying crunch for both kids and adults.

  • Hippeas Pops – 3g protein, 2g fiber, <1g added sugar – They also make puffs and chips
  • Trail Mix – 5g protein, 3g fiber, 6g added sugar -There are endless trail mix options so nutrition facts will vary but this is a great option because you can find one customized to your liking.
  • The Only Bean Edamame – 14g protein, 5g fiber, 0g added sugar
  • Whisps – 10g protein, 0g fiber, 0g added sugar
  • Seaweed snacks – 1g protein, 1 g fiber, 0g added sugar – Similar to kale chips, these won’t be for everyone but can still be a good option for some added nutrients
  • Harvest Snaps Crunchy Loops – 4g protein, 2g fiber, 0g added sugar – They have crisps, loops and puffs in a variety of flavors

healthy granola bars for snacking

Healthy Granola Bars for Kids

What are the healthiest granola bars for kids and adults?

These are some of my favorite kid-friendly granola bar options for kids when I don’t want to turn to a protein bar like would for an adult. These are all lower in added sugar and have some protein and fiber. Here are more of the Best Healthy Store Bought Granola Bars For Kids. For adults, one of my favorite options is Aloha Bars – I love that they don’t have stevia. 88 Acres and Go Macro also have some good options.


healthy lower sugar cereals

Healthy Cereals

Cereal has always been one of my favorite snacks and doesn’t just have to be for breakfast. Pair with milk to add some extra protein or mix some into your favorite trail mix or yogurt. Here are more Lower Sugar Cereals For Kids.

  • Puffins – 3g protein, 3g fiber, 6g added sugar
  • Love Grown – 5g protein, 4g fiber, 8g added sugar – love that these are made with beans!
  • Cascadian Farms Purely O’s – 4g protein, 4g fiber, <1g added sugar
  • Wheat Chex – 6g protein, 8g fiber, 6g added sugar – There are also plain rice and corn options
  • Nature’s Path Heritage Flakes – 5g protein, 7g fiber, 5g added sugar
  • Kix -3g protein, 3g fiber, 4g added sugar

healthy snacks 5

Healthy Dairy and Refrigerated Snacks

Dairy can be a great source of protein for both kids and adults and you don’t have to eat it plain. There are some good lower-sugar flavor options out there.

  • Lifeway Kefir – 10g protein, 0g fiber, 8g added sugar – They have 8oz bottles and you can also check out Probugs pouches for kids
  • Babybel Cheese – 4g protein, 0g fiber, 0g added sugar – pair with crackers!
  • Stonyfield Yogurt Pouches – 5g protein, 0g fiber, 0g added sugar – look for the no added sugar options!
  • Breakstone Cottage Doubles – 13g protein, 0g fiber, 4g added sugar
  • String cheese – 7g protein, 0g fiber, 0g added sugar
  • Chobani Less Sugar – 12g protein, 0g fiber, 5g added sugar – this is one of the best flavored yogurt options I’ve found. Siggi’s also has good options

How can I transition my kids to healthier packed snack options?


healthy snacks 6

High Fiber Snacks

Almost everyone could use more fiber in their diet and snacks can be a great time to add some to your day! Even a few grams here and there can help. Here are a few options:

  • Mama Chia Squeeze – 2g protein, 3g fiber, 5g added sugar
  • Mush – 5g protein, 4g fiber, 0g added sugar
  • KIND bars – 4g protein, 6g fiber, 7g added sugar – several of their nut-based bars are high in fiber
  • Biena Roasted Chickpeas – 6g protein, 6g fiber, 0g added sugar
  • Beanitos – 4g protein, 4g fiber, 0g added sugar
  • Ground Flax – Add this to your yogurt, smoothies, oatmeal, even sprinkle onto peanut butter and jelly sandwiches!

fruit snacks for kids

Kid-Friendly Fruit Snacks

What are healthy fruit-based snacks that aren’t full of sugar?

While plain fresh, canned, dried frozen fruit is my favorite option, there are some packaged fruit snacks and alternatives that are good options. I’ve listed some below but check out this post as well for more Healthy Fruit Snacks and Alternatives.

  • Figgy Pops – 3g protein, 2g fiber, 0g added sugar
  • That’s It Fruit Bars – 1g protein, 4g fiber, 0g added sugar – pair with a protein source!
  • Freeze-dried fruit – 2g protein, 6g fiber, 0g added sugar- great to add to trail mix
  • Bear Fruit Rolls – 0g protein, 4g fiber, 0g added sugar – the also have sour varieties
  • Peeled Snacks – 2g protein, 2g fiber, 0g added sugar
  • Bare Apple Chips – 0g protein, 4g fiber, 0g added sugar

high protein snacks

High Protein Snacks

What high protein snacks help keep you full?

Protein is one component that should be included in almost all snacks – along with fiber and/or healthy fats. It helps with muscle-building, recovery and satiety – all good things! These are some of my favorite for kids. Look here for more of my favorite Healthy High Protein Snack Ideas for adults.

  • Hb eggs – 6g protein, 0g fiber, 0g added sugar
  • Chomps – 10g protein, 0g fiber, 0g added sugar
  • Kodiak Power Waffles – 12g protein, 3g fiber, 4g added sugar
  • Aloha Protein Minis – 6g protein, 2g fiber, 1g added sugar – can be a good snack option for elementary and older kids
  • Deli meat turkey – 12g protein, 0g fiber, 0g added sugar – Look for a brand like Dietz and Watson that’s made with just turkey, salt and spices
  • Balanced Breaks – 7g protein, 0g fiber, 0g added sugar – The raisin option is my favorite!

healthy snacks 9

Snacks with Healthy Fats

Healthy fats are a great addition to daily snacks. For kids they are important for growth and development. For adults, they can be a good source of nutrients like omega-3’s and also help make snacks more satisfying.


Healthy Packaged Snacks FAQs

What are the best nut-free snacks for schools and workplaces?

I know from experience that finding nut-free snacks for schools can be challenging. I put together the Ultimate List of Peanut-Free and Tree Nut-Free Packaged Snacks with lots of ideas for you.

What are some crunchy snacks that are actually good for you?

My favorite crunchy snacks to reccomend are raw veggies, nuts and seeds and trail mix. Kale chips, homemade crackers, roasted chickpeas and edamame are also great. Here are some more ideas for Healthy Crunchy Snacks.

Are there healthy savory packaged snacks that aren’t chips?

Yes! Some of my favorites include roasted chickpeas, roasted edamame, kale chips, and harvest snaps. Crunchmasters multiseed crackers, raw veggies with a packaged dip, trail mix, popcorn and savory granola bars are also good choices.

What are good healthy snacks for travel and long commutes?

Eating in the car or while commuting is unavoidable at times. Here’s a list of Healthy Road Trip Snacks including things like fresh fruits and veggies, cheese sticks, hard boiled eggs and yogurt in the cooler and crackers, trail mix, muffins, jerky, granola bars and more in the snack bag! And if you have younger kids, here’s a list of Low Mess Snacks For Kids.

Can toddlers and younger kids have packaged snacks safely?

Yes! But there are definitely choking hazards to be aware of including round foods like grapes and hot dogs, raw veggies, marshmallows, hard candy, popcorn and more. Here are some Healthy Snacks for Toddlers.

What snacks offer a good balance of protein, fiber and healthy fats?

A few of my favorites include apple with peanut butter and a cheese stick, crackers with guacamole and a beef stick, high fiber muffin and a yogurt, and homemade trail mix with low sugar cereal, popcorn, nuts and dried fruit.

What are the best store bought snacks for school lunches or work?

If you need ideas for school lunches, you’ll love my guide: A Month of Packed Lunches for Kids including full color pictures and tons of ideas for both lunches and snacks.

What are the best packaged snacks for busy professionals or parents?

I’ve got a whole list of snack ideas that are gerat for At Work and After-Work Snacks, including some non-perishable ideas like tuna pouches with crackers, beef sticks, protein bars, roasted nuts and more.


That’s it for now! I’ll keep adding as I find more! If you liked this post, be sure to share and pin it for later!

Healthy Pre Packaged Snacks

A list of 50+ healthy packaged snacks for busy parents who are looking for some new ideas. Healthy store bought snacks when homemade snacks aren't an option.

Enjoy!
–Lindsay–

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Healthy Snacks For Toddlers https://www.theleangreenbean.com/healthy-snacks-for-toddlers/ https://www.theleangreenbean.com/healthy-snacks-for-toddlers/#comments Tue, 22 Jul 2025 04:00:00 +0000 https://www.theleangreenbean.com/?p=38979 Need ideas for healthy snacks for toddlers? This list is specifically geared towards kids 1-3 years old, with homemade and storebought ideas for at home and on the go. *Originally published 9/21. Updated 7/25* These healthy snacks for toddlers are simple, healthy and budget-friendly. They’re perfect for busy moms who want to feed their kids […]]]>

Need ideas for healthy snacks for toddlers? This list is specifically geared towards kids 1-3 years old, with homemade and storebought ideas for at home and on the go.

healthy toddler snack ideas homemade and storebought

*Originally published 9/21. Updated 7/25*


Hi friends!

Let’s talk about healthy snacks for toddlers. I think a lot of snack ideas posts are geared towards kids in general but there always seems to be a fair amount of ideas on the lists that aren’t safe for toddlers, mainly because of choking hazards. So I wanted to put together a list of toddler-safe snacks.

Why You’ll Love Healthy Snacks For Toddlers

  • Affordable – these snacks are made with simple, budget-friendly ingredients
  • Kid-friendly – packed with nutrients but still taste good
  • Freezer-friendly – many can be prepped ahead of time and frozen for quick snacks
  • Quick and easy – great for busy moms with no time to waste!

Healthy Toddler Snack Ideas

We all know that most toddlers seem to want to eat constantly but remember that all-day grazing is not ideal. Try to stick to set meals and snack times when possible so that they have a chance to start listening to their body, recognizing signs of hunger and fullness etc.

Should a 2-year-old have snacks?

Snacks are a great idea for toddlers and a great way to get some extra nutrients in them that they might not eat at actual meal times. Most toddlers do best with 3 meals and 2-3 snacks per day. Try a snack mid-morning, mid-afternoon and potentially after dinner if needed.

What are some healthy meal ideas for toddlers?

If you’re looking for ideas for toddler meals vs snacks I’ve got you covered as well! Here are 150+ Toddler Meal Ideas with pictures of actual plates I served my kids from ages 1-3. And if that’s enough, here’s another 100 Healthy Toddler Meals.


toddler choking hazards

Toddler Choking Hazards

When considering what snacks and foods to give your toddler, it’s important to remember that there are several choices that frequently lead to choking in this age group. These are things that are either hard, hard to chew, a similar size to their windpipe, sticky etc so we want to avoid them.

Here are some common choking hazards for toddlers:

  • Round foods like hot dogs, sausages, cherry tomatoes and grapes
  • Hard foods like apples and carrots and other hard raw veggies
  • Nut butter by the spoonful or thickly spread on bread
  • Marshmallows, whole nuts, gum, hard candy, chips and popcorn

choking hazards modified

Toddler Choking Hazards modified:

The good news is you don’t have to avoid most of these foods completely. Here’s how to modify some of the common choking hazards so they’re safer for toddlers:

  • For round foods: cut lengthwise into quarters
  • For hard fruits and veggies: grate, cut into matchsticks, dice and saute, steam or roast to soften
  • Nut butter: spread thinly on toast
  • Chop whole nuts into very small pieces and consider softer nuts like cashews/pecans/pistachios vs almonds/peanuts

Is popcorn a healthy snack for toddlers?

Popcorn is a huge choking hazard for kids under age 4 so I’d really recommend holding off serving it to younger kiddos. If you’re looking for something similar, popcorn cakes or rice cakes are safer than popcorn kernels


Healthy Snacks For Kids and Toddlers

If you’re looking for snacks for older kids, I have several posts to check out. These lists will have some snacks that are good for toddlers but not all of them:


Healthy Snack Ideas for Toddlers

So let’s dive right into toddler snacks, shall we? Here are some of my favorite healthy snack ideas for toddlers. And remember these are good for older kids too!

healthy toddler snack ideas

Healthy Snacks Toddlers

Here are some snack ideas that I make at home:

  • Smoothies: Smoothies are a great way to get extra fruit and veggies into your toddler’s diet. Mix with a little milk or yogurt and you have added protein and calcium, among other important nutrients. Spinach, zucchini and cauliflower are easy veggies to add to smoothies without altering the taste or texture too much. My boys’ love the combo is frozen mixed berries, spinach, milk and a little orange juice. This Peach Zucchini Smoothie Bowl is also a fav, along with this Silken Tofu Mixed Berry Smoothie! We also love this simple strawberry pineapple smoothie.
  • Muffins/bars– My favorite for young toddlers are my Sweet Potato Banana Bites – but almost all of my kid-friendly baking recipes are great for this age and are packed with things like beans, lentils and veggies. My friend and fellow RD Min also has tons of Healthy Baby and Toddler muffins here.
  • Oatmeal: It’s not just for breakfast! Make it with milk for protein and stir in a scoop of peanut butter for healthy fats. Top with berries or a few chocolate chips. You can even make a big batch ahead of time, freeze in muffin tins and thaw in the microwave. Learn how in my post for Freezer Prep Oatmeal Cups.
  • Energy Bars – Use my go-to energy bar recipe and process them really well in the food processor to avoid big chunks. Then press into a pan and cut into bars so they’re thinner vs rolling into balls.
  • Trail Mix: Homemade trail mix is SO easy and can be adapted based on your child’s favorite add-ins. Try this toddler NutFree Toddler Trail Mix or make up your own combination using cereal, small crackers, dried fruit and small nuts if they’re older (nuts can be a choking hazard for young toddlers). Freeze-dried fruits and veggies are a great option for younger kiddos or things like Hippeas or Harvest Snaps!
  • Fruit – berries, kiwi, mandarin oranges, bananas, fruit leather, raisins, grated apples + pb yogurt dip
  • Vegetables – matchstick carrots, peas, corn, cucumber, roasted sweet potatoes + ranch/hummus/laughing cow (toddler dips)
  • Eggs – Any form is great! I usually cut hard-boiled eggs into quarters but you can also try egg wraps or mini egg muffins, or even a fried egg on toast with avocado – cut it into strips to make it easier for them to hold.
toddler snack ideas

Easy Toddler Snacks

  • Cottage Cheese: Serve it alone or pair it with whole-grain cereal and some fruit for a twist on a yogurt parfait. It can be high in sodium so as always, variety is key! And if they’re not fans, lower sugar yogurts (or plain yogurt with fruit mixed in is great too!)
  • Hummus: Perfect for dipping raw veggies like carrots, celery, cucumbers and bell peppers (be careful with raw veggies- they can be a choking hazard for young toddlers). You can also serve with crackers or chips or add to pizza or sandwiches.
  • Avocado: A great source of healthy fats. Mash it up for avocado toast, make guacamole for dipping or just slice and serve!
  • Nut Butter: Healthy fats help keep them full! Add peanut butter or other nut/seed butters to oatmeal, drizzle on banana slices or spread on toast, waffles or pancakes!
  • Whole Grain Cereal: Check out my list of Lower Sugar Cereal for Kids. Pair with milk, yogurt or a hard-boiled egg!
  • Mini pizza – These English muffin pizzas are the perfect size for toddler snack time and easy for little hands to handle. Keep a batch in the freezer and microwave as needed.
  • Quesadillas – add some shredded vegetables or chicken and give them a sauce to dip in.
  • Waffles/toast – Top them with a healthy fat like peanut butter or avocado, cut into sticks or in half to make it easier for little fingers to handle
  • Pancakes – Try these Whole Wheat Pancakes. My kids love when I make them silver dollar sized or make them bigger and cut into little triangles with a pizza cutter.

storebought toddler snacks

Healthy Snacks For Toddlers When Traveling or On The Go

Here are some packaged snacks that I often have on hand for quick snacks both at home and on the go:

Want more snack ideas? Find all of my healthy snack roundups here.


So there you go! Lots of toddler-friendly snack ideas for you!

Need ideas for healthy snacks for toddlers? This list is specifically geared towards kids 1-3 years old, with homemade and storebought ideas for at home and on the go.

These healthy snacks for toddlers are quick, easy and affordable. Perfect for busy moms who are trying to feed their family healthy and nutritious foods that kids will actually eat!

Enjoy!
–Lindsay–

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15 Kid-Friendly Protein-Rich Energy Balls| No Protein Powder https://www.theleangreenbean.com/kid-friendly-protein-energy-balls-recipes/ https://www.theleangreenbean.com/kid-friendly-protein-energy-balls-recipes/#comments Tue, 04 Mar 2025 05:00:00 +0000 http://www.theleangreenbean.com/?p=21596 These protein energy balls for kids are a quick, healthy snack option made with real food ingredients. Here are 15 kid-friendly energy ball recipes made without protein powder.  *Published May 2021. Updated Mar 2025* Hi friends! Let’s talk about snacks for a minute, shall we? More specifically, snacks for kids. Because lord knows my kids […]]]>

These protein energy balls for kids are a quick, healthy snack option made with real food ingredients. Here are 15 kid-friendly energy ball recipes made without protein powder. 

protein energy balls and protein energy bites for kids without protein powder

*Published May 2021. Updated Mar 2025*

Hi friends!

Let’s talk about snacks for a minute, shall we? More specifically, snacks for kids. Because lord knows my kids eat a lot of them- pretty much every 2 hours all day long, am I right?!

Protein Snacks for Kids and Toddlers

These aren’t giant snacks by any means, but they do occur multiple times per day, so I do my best to make sure they’re getting healthy protein snacks that are full of nutrients.  Some of our favorites include:

  • Muffins and Bars
  • String cheese with crackers
  • Hard-boiled eggs with fruit
  • Avocado or peanut butter toast
  • Smoothies or smoothie popsicles
  • Veggies and crackers with hummus
  • Energy balls
  • Frozen yogurt tubes
  • PB&J Waffles

If you need packaged snacks, check out my list of 60+ Healthy Packaged Snacks for Kids and check out my latest resource The Snack Spark for tons more ideas. You can also find several roundups of different types of snack ideas – store-specific options, gluten-free, high protein, etc by clicking the button below:


Protein Energy Balls Recipe without Protein Powder

I try to rotate through healthy protein-rich snacks to avoid burnout, but one thing I try to always have on hand in the freezer is energy balls. My oldest absolutely loves my Lemon Energy Balls and the younger two are fans of my no-bake mint chocolate version (i make them without the crushed peppermint when it’s not Christmas time!)

Importance of Protein for Kids

When I look for protein balls for kids, I look for recipes without protein powder.

While protein is support important for growth, energy levels, development and more, many parents are surprised by how little food it takes to meet the daily protein requirements for kids so there’s usually no need for extra protein powder. Here’s a great post about how much protein your child needs (with visuals).

Best Protein Sources for Kid-Friendly Protein Energy Balls

Even without protein powder, these recipes are nutrient-dense and full of protein thanks to ingredients like nuts, pumpkin seeds, chia seeds, ground flax, oats and more.

Most nut and seed butters have anywhere from 5-8 grams of protein per ounce. You can consider standard options like peanut or almond butter, get more adventerous with cashew or walnut butter or look into nut-free options like sunflower seed or pumpkin seed butter.

Protein balls for kids make a great snack. I love that you can prep a big batch ahead of time and store them in the freezer for a quick and easy snack time. I rounded up a few recipes for you to try!

Protein Energy Balls for Kids

I love them because it’s so easy to make a batch ahead of time and pop them in the freezer and just pull them out whenever we need a quick snack. Since we eat them so frequently, it’s always nice to have options for different flavors/ingredients so I put together a list – it’s a mix of oatmeal balls for toddlers, protein balls without peanut butter and more!

Note that while a lot of energy balls are made with protein powder, for this roundup, I chose only recipes that do not include protein powder. I don’t use protein powder a ton although I do add it to my smoothies and to make my No Bake Protein Bars), but I don’t feel it’s something most young kids need.


Healthy Toddler Protein Energy Balls

Here are some ideas for quick, no-bake, protein-rich energy balls perfect for busy parents!

My easy go-to energy ball recipe made with dates, hemp, peanut butter and flax

My Go-To Energy Ball Recipe

My Go-To Energy Ball Recipe is perfect for kids, nursing moms, athletes and anyone looking for a healthy snack. They’re full of fiber, protein, and healthy fats and easy to prep ahead of time to keep your freezer stocked.

cherry energy balls

Cherry Energy Balls

Just 5 ingredients and 10 minutes and you can have a batch of these energy balls on hand for quick snacks.

apple cinnamon cookie energy bites

Apple Cinnamon Cookie Energy Bites

Made with oats, almond butter and fresh apples, these will quickly become a Fall favorite.

pb and j swirl energy bites

PB & J Swirl Energy Bites

A fun twist on a peanut butter and jelly sandwich, these energy bites swirl two classic flavors together for goodness in every bite

cinnamon raisin peanut butter energy balls

Cinnamon Raisin Peanut Butter Energy Balls

This recipe uses peanut butter for some protein and healthy fats while also add that classic cinnamon raisin flavor!


Protein Rich No Cook Energy Bites Recipes For Kids

If your kiddos love dessert, energy balls can be a great sweet treat after dinner. There are lots of recipes out there modeled after classic desserts but these no cook versions are super quick and easy!

strawberry cheesecake energy bites

Strawberry Cheesecake Energy Bites

This recipe uses dried strawberries, cashews and nutritional yeast for flavorful dairy-free energy balls.

no bake carrot cake energy bites

No Bake Carrot Cake Energy Bites

These energy bites taste just like your favorite carrot cake. A kid-friendly snack everyone will love!

chocolate brownie no bake energy balls

Chocolate Brownie No Bake Energy Balls

Made with a mix of walnuts and almonds, plus dates and cocoa powder, these will satisfy any chocolate craving!

key lime pie energy bites

Key Lime Pie Energy Bites

If you’re looking for a tropical treat, these energy bites can’t be beat! Lots of key lime juice and zest give these tons of flavor.

no bake cranberry chocolate almond energy bites

No Bake Cranberry Chocolate Almond Energy Bites

These taste like cookie dough and are perfect anytime you need a quick burst of energy!


Healthy Kids Protein Energy Balls Recipes

The best part about energy bites is that there are endless flavor combinations out there. If you haven’t found one your kiddos love yet, keep trying!!

no bake peppermint chocolate bites

No-Bake Peppermint Chocolate Bites

These No-Bake Peppermint Chocolate Bites are simple, healthy and ready in minutes. This gluten-free recipe would make a great addition to your holiday cookie tray!

lemon energy balls

Lemon Energy Balls

Bursting with citrus flavor, these Lemon Energy balls make the perfect snack. Made with just 5 ingredients, they’re gluten-free, paleo-friendly and perfect for stashing in the fridge or freezer!

dark chocolate blueberry energy bites

Dark Chocolate Blueberry Energy Bites

The perfect combination of sweet dried blueberries, dark chocolate and whole grains!

dark chocolate coconut almond butter energy bites

Dark Chocolate Coconut Almond Butter Energy Bites

Everyone loves the coconut and dark chocolate combo! Add in some almond butter and you’ve got an irresistible treat!

chocolate coconut pistachio bites

Chocolate Coconut Pistachio Bites

These have a unique twist because they’re rolled in crushed nuts at the end to add some texture, color and flavor to the outside!

So if you need me, I’ll be in the kitchen working my way through this list with my kitchen assistants. Which should we try first?!


Protein Energy Balls FAQs

Are protein balls safe for toddlers and young children?

Although they are soft and easy to chew, these could be a choking hazard for younger children due to their shape. Try using nut butter instead of chopped nuts and small additions like hemp/flax or chia seeds to avoid choking hazards.

You can also press the mixture into an 8×8 or 9×9 pan and then cut into bars which can be broken or cut into small bite-sized pieces vs rolling into balls.

What is the best way to store homemade energy balls for freshness?

I like to store mine in the freezer but they can also be stored in an air-tight container in the fridge. They will be fine at room temperature for several hours if you want to pack for a snack but for longer periods of time they should be kept in the fridge or freezer.

What are the healthiest sweeteners to use in energy balls for kids?

Dates are my favorite because they have no added sugar. They also add fiber and other nutrients and their sticky texture helps the balls stay together while also adding natural sweetness.

Can I freezer protein energy balls for later?

Absolutely! Just transfer to a freezer-safe container and store up to 3 months. You can eat them straight from the freezer as well. No need to thaw first!

Can I make energy balls with vegan protein sources?

Lots of energy balls are made with ingredients that are naturally gluten-free. Often, recipes that use oats also use honey which is not vegan, so I would look for date-based energy ball recipes with lots of nuts and seeds which are naturally vegan!

How can I add veggies to energy balls for kids?

Shredded carrots make a great addition to energy balls. Feel free to experiment with other shredded veggies as well, just keep in mind veggies like zucchini will add extra moisture.

Are protein-rich energy balls good for kids before or after sports?

Yes! Oat based options can be higher in carbs and great for a pre-workout snack while higher-protein options can help with muscle recovery after practice.


Kids Energy Balls

Looking for a quick, healthy snack made with real food ingredients? Here are 12 kid-friendly energy ball recipes made without protein powder.

Nut-Free Energy Balls

How can I make protein-rich energy balls without nuts?

Need nut-free options for school? Look for recipes that use oats, ground flax, pumpkin seeds, chia, hemp and seed butters like sunflower seed or pumpkin seed butter. Here are a few options:

Energy balls make a great addition to school lunch boxes. If you need more lunch-packing ideas, check out my resource: A Month of Easy Packed Lunches for Kids.

Enjoy!
–Lindsay–

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Best Low Sugar Yogurt | 7g Added Sugar or Less! https://www.theleangreenbean.com/best-low-sugar-yogurt/ https://www.theleangreenbean.com/best-low-sugar-yogurt/#comments Sat, 14 Dec 2024 18:46:00 +0000 https://www.theleangreenbean.com/?p=40660 Here are 5 of the best low sugar yogurts. These are not sugar-free yogurt options. They all have 7 grams of added sugar or less and no artificial sweeteners! *Originally published 7/2022. Updated 12/2024.* Hi friends! I have been working on a new snack series! Today we’re talking about yogurt. Yogurt is kid-friendly, an easy […]]]>

Here are 5 of the best low sugar yogurts. These are not sugar-free yogurt options. They all have 7 grams of added sugar or less and no artificial sweeteners!

best low sugar yogurt options

*Originally published 7/2022. Updated 12/2024.*

Hi friends!

I have been working on a new snack series! Today we’re talking about yogurt. Yogurt is kid-friendly, an easy protein source and can be a great addition to a balanced diet. However, if you’re not careful, it can easily fall into the dessert category based on the large amounts of sugar that is often added to it.

If you want more store-bought snack ideas, check out these posts:

Snacks from certain stores:

Types of snacks:


Best Low Sugar Yogurts – Top Brands

How to choose low sugar yogurt?

So what low-sugar yogurts are best? I went to Meijer and Kroger to find some options for you!

There is no official definition for low-sugar so opinions will vary person to person. As a Registered Dietitian, I tried to look for options that were relatively low in sugar but would still taste good.

Low Sugar Yogurt Recipes

For options lowest in added sugar, try using plain yogurt and sweetening with your own fruit like this – How To Make Naturally Sweetened Greek Yogurt – No added Sugar. You could also try making your own yogurt – How To Make Homemade Vanilla Yogurt.

Best Flavored Yogurt Options

If you don’t like those options , you’ll need to choose from flavored store-bought options and the level of added sugar varies widely by brand.

Best yogurt without artificial sweetener

Many people, including myself, don’t like the aftertaste that comes with stevia and may have digestive issues with sweeteners like monk fruit, etc. If you want to learn more about sugar substitutes, check out my post – The Ultimate Guide to Sugar Substitutes.

For this roundup, I’ve chosen to go with yogurts sweetened with traditional sugar, not sugar substitutes.

Here are five options that have 7 grams of added sugar or less. Watch the video for an overview, or scroll down to see the options:


What is the healthiest low sugar yogurt?

The healthiest low sugar yogurt for you is one that you’ll eat! You can’t get the protein and other nutrient benefits if you’re not willing to consume it!

Lowest Sugar Yogurt Brands

Here are the five options I found that are lower in sugar and still taste good.

oikos low sugar greek yogurt

Oikos Blended – Low Sugar Greek Yogurt

  • 7 grams added sugar
  • 13 grams protein
  • 0 grams fat

Ingredients in the strawberry flavor: cultured non fat milk, strawberries, cane sugar, water, contains less than 1% of: pectin, natural flavors, fruit and vegetable juice concentrate and beta carotene (for color, vitamin D3.

Chobani Less Sugar Greek Yogurt

Chobani Less Sugar Greek Yogurt

  • 5 grams added sugar
  • 12 grams protein
  • 3 grams fat

Ingredients in Vanilla: Cultured lowfat milk, water, cane sugar, natural flavors, fruit pectin, guar gum, cinnamon, locust bean gum, vanilla extract, lemon juice concentrate.

Fage Total Low Sugar Yogurt

Fage Total Split Cup – Low Sugar Yogurt

  • 7 grams added sugar
  • 12 grams protein
  • 2.5 grams fat

Ingredients: STRAINED YOGURT: Grade A Pasteurized Skimmed Milk and Cream, Live Active Yogurt Cultures (L. Bulgaricus, S. Thermophilus, L. Acidophilus, Bifidus, L. Casei).

STRAWBERRY FRUIT PREPARATION: Strawberries, Cane Sugar, Water, Corn Starch, Contains 2% or less of: Strawberry Juice Concentrate, Lemon Juice Concentrate, Natural Flavors, Fruit Pectin. 

siggis low sugar yogurt

Siggi’s Yogurt With Low Sugar

  • 6 grams added sugar
  • 15 grams protein
  • 2.5 grams fat (there’s also a whole milk version)

Ingredients in black cherry: Pasteurized Skim Milk, Pasteurized Cream, Cherries, Cane Sugar, Fruit Pectin, Live Active Cultures

Icelandic Provisions low sugar yogurt

Icelandic Provisions Low Sugar Yogurt

  • 7 grams added sugar
  • 15 grams protein
  • 2 grams fat

Ingredients in strawberry: Skyr (Pasteurized Low-Fat Milk, Live and Active Cultures), Fruit (Strawberries, Lingonberries), Cane Sugar, Natural Flavors, Pectin, Carob Bean Gum, Fruit and Vegetable Juice Concentrate (For Color)


Low Sugar Greek Yogurt

What’s the difference between greek yogurt and regular yogurt? Greek yogurt is strained after it’s fermented to remove the whey and make it thicker. Skyr is similar to Greek yogurt in that it’s strained, often longer than Greek yogurt, making it even thicker. Greek yogurt can have fewer carbs and less sugar, while also having more protein than regular yogurt. For all varieties there are whole milk and lower fat options. Skyr is usually made with skim milk and can have even more protein than Greek yogurt.

Kids Taste Test Yogurt with Low Sugar

Low Sugar Yogurts for Kids

While low sugar options are great, we still need kids to enjoy them! I did a little taste test with my kids where they tasted the 5 options listed above, plus a higher sugar option and one sweetened with stevia. Watch to see which were their favorites:


Best Sugar-Free Yogurt

Is sugar-free yogurt good for you?

So what about sugar-free yogurt that use artifical sweeteners and yogurts sweetened with stevia and monkfruit? Personally and as an RD they’re not my favorite. Stevia and other sweeteners like it can cause GI distress- gas, bloating etc for some people. Some people also don’t like the taste or aftertaste. They’re also much much sweeter than regular yogurts and kids can get used to that level of sweetness. Like most things, they’re probably fine in moderation but for this post I chose ones sweetened with regular sugar because that’s my preference. If you’re looking for other options there are definitely some out there!

For Special Diets

Low Sugar Yogurts for Diatbetics

If you’re diabetic and looking for options that are specifically good for diabetics, check out this article from my friend and fellow RD who is a Type 1 Diabetic – How To Choose The Best Yogurt For Diabetes.

Low Sugar Vegan Yogurt

If you’re looking for some healthy dairy-free yogurt options check out this post – Healthy Dairy-free Yogurt That Actually Tastes Good.


Additional healthy yogurt options:

ways to reduce sugar in yogurt

Two other easy ways to reduce the added sugar in yogurt is to choose plain yogurt and mix in smashed fruit or drizzle with a little honey.

Or you can buy a flavored variety that might have a bit more added sugar and mix it half and half with plain yogurt!


Here are 5 of the best low-sugar yogurts. These are not sugar-free yogurt options. They all have 7 grams of added sugar or less and no artificial sweeteners!

Hope this post was helpful! Want some recipes that use yogurt, both flavored and plain?

–Lindsay–

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Best Nursing Snacks For Breastfeeding Moms https://www.theleangreenbean.com/snacks-for-breastfeeding-moms/ https://www.theleangreenbean.com/snacks-for-breastfeeding-moms/#comments Sat, 26 Oct 2024 04:00:00 +0000 http://www.theleangreenbean.com/?p=25237 These nursing snacks for breastfeeding moms are easy to make ahead of time! Use these postpartum snacks to help keep your body fueled and energized while nursing. *Originally posted 2/2017. Updated 10/2024* Hi friends! I’ve got some healthy breastfeeding snacks to share with you today. Although I’m no longer nursing, I do have three kids […]]]>

These nursing snacks for breastfeeding moms are easy to make ahead of time! Use these postpartum snacks to help keep your body fueled and energized while nursing.

best nursing snacks

*Originally posted 2/2017. Updated 10/2024*

Hi friends!

I’ve got some healthy breastfeeding snacks to share with you today. Although I’m no longer nursing, I do have three kids and there were several years where I was nursing constantly and was often asked about breastfeeding snacks.

Healthy Postpartum Snacks

When my oldest was born, our breastfeeding journey came to a rapid end. I got mastitis the first week and ended up in the hospital when he was six weeks old with a breast abscess. (You can read more here.) Since our breastfeeding stint was so short, and I was also supplementing with formula, I didn’t get a clear picture as to just how much exclusively breastfeeding affects your body.

healthy postpartum snacks

Healthy Snacks for Breastfeeding Moms

When my daughter was born, we were able to exclusively breastfeed for 13 months. During that time I was also chasing two kids around and regularly doing CrossFit which involved weightlifting and high-intensity workouts. I quickly learned that I needed to eat A LOT of calories to maintain my weight.

My youngest struggled to gain weight as a baby which meant I spent a lot of time doing triple feeds where I was nursing, pumping and giving him formula which was just as exhausting as it sounds, especially with two other little kids running around.

healthy snacks while breastfeeding

Best Postpartum Snacks

Finding time to eat can be tough when you have a screaming newborn and a high-energy toddler running around.

Most of the time when meal or snack time rolled around, one of two things was happening:

  • Everyone needed to eat at the same time so I nursed one while getting food ready for the other two.
  • The baby was napping and the toddlers needed to eat so I fed them and then ran around trying to get work done or spend one on one time with the other kids while baby slept instead of eating myself. 

After a bit of a learning curve, I realized I needed to step up my game a little bit. I needed to make more of an effort to have my fridge, freezer and pantry well-stocked with healthy, calorie-dense snacks that I can eat quickly throughout the day and I needed to prioritize sitting down and eating meals….even when I’m busy or feel like I have a million other things to do.

If you’re pressed for time – which, let’s be honest, what new mom isn’t….storebought snacks are a perfectly acceptable option. I have tons of Best of Storebought Snack lists including:


Healthy Breastfeeding Snacks

So here are some of my favorite make-ahead snacks to have stocked and ready to eat throughout the day while post-partum and nursing:

easy snacks for breastfeeding moms - snack mixes

Easy Snacks For Breastfeeding Moms

Snack Mixes

To make it super easy, buy a bag of trailmix from Costco and portion it out as needed. I love the one that has peanuts, almonds, cashews, raisins and m&ms.

But also remember that it’s pretty quick and easy to make your own with all your favorite things in it!

Think nuts, seeds, popcorn, dried fruit, chocolate chips, cereal, bite-sized crackers etc. Most snack mixes don’t require a recipe but here are a few I specifically love:


brestfeeding mom snacks - yogurt parfaits

Breastfeeding Mom Snacks

Yogurt with Toppings

Try full-fat plain yogurt or Greek yogurt and top with a handful of oat-based granola or cereal for some crunch, fresh fruit for sweetness and nuts/seeds for healthy fats (a sprinkle of ground flaxseed mixed in would be a great addition.

A few other options:

Mush overnight oats and Mamma Chia are good storebought options.


good breastfeeding snacks - energy balls

Good Breastfeeding Snacks

Energy Balls

These are so easy to make and perfect for stocking your freezer. Make a double batch and freeze them so you can pull out one or two out to eat quickly. To make your life even easier, skip rolling them into individual balls- just press the mixture into a pan, refrigerate for a couple hours and then cut into bars.

Here are some energy ball recipes to try:

These also make a good kid snack so you can make some for yourself and share. For more ideas check out these 15 Kid-Friendly Protein Energy Balls – No Protein Powder Required.


easy post-partum snacks - granola or protein bars homemade

Easy Postpartum Snacks

Granola or Protein Bars

I make these No-Bake Protein Bars all the time as a homemade version of store-bought protein bars. You can also try these Gingerbread Protein Balls.

If you’re looking for storebought ideas, I like:


lactation snack recipes - dairy-free lactation cookies

Lactation Snack Recipes

Lactation Cookies

I’ve been eating a couple of these each day for a quick snack or dessert. This is my recipe for Dairy-Free Lactation Cookies and there are tons of other variations out there!

If you prefer store-bought you can check out Milky Mamas.

Other Snacks To Boost Milk Supply

Other snacks using some of these ingredients include:


good breastfeeding snacks - egg wraps

Good Breastfeeding Snacks

Egg Wraps

These egg wraps are easy to make ahead of time. with turkey and guac or hummus. I make up 8-10 on Sundays to have on hand throughout the week. You can eat them warm or cold and add things like turkey, cheese, guacamole, etc. They’re easy to eat one-handed and packed with protein!

Egg Waffles are another great option! Or make a batch of egg muffins like these Easy Cottage Cheese Egg Muffins.


best snacks for nursing mothers

Best Snacks For Nursing Mothers

Muffins/Bars

When you’re making things like muffins, bars, pancakes, waffles, etc….always always make a double batch to stock your freezer. Just pull them out and thaw on the counter as needed.

Some favorites of mine are:


Need more ideas for healthy snacks while breastfeeding?

  • Hummus with carrots or chips (bonus points if you make this greek hummus topping too!)
  • Apple slices with peanut butter
  • Frozen pb banana sandwiches (put a little pb between two slices of banana and freeze)
  • Tuna salad stuffed mini peppers (cut peppers in half, stuff with mix of tuna + avocado or hummus + salsa)
  • PB toast or waffle with peanut butter (I like these Banana Flax Waffles– i make a batch to freeze then just grab one and pop it in the toaster)
  • Pudding – try this PB banana version or this chocolate avocado pudding recipe
  • Cold leftovers – I like these Thai Chicken Meatballs or Tuna Quinoa Cakes or Chicken Avocado Burgers straight out of the fridge
  • Smoothies- did you know you can make a big batch and freeze them in mason jars. Then just microwave to thaw as needed. Here are some of the Best Smoothie Recipes.

That’s all for today! Keep in mind these healthy make-ahead snacks are great for everyone, not just nursing moms! I also have a post of Healthy Freezer Snacks that might be helpful!


These Make-Ahead Snacks For Breastfeeding Moms are easy, healthy recipes to help keep your body fueled and energized while nursing.

Let’s chat:

What are the best postpartum snacks in your opinion?

Enjoy!
–Lindsay–

 

 

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Peanut-Free & Tree Nut-Free Packaged Snacks https://www.theleangreenbean.com/nut-free-packaged-snacks/ https://www.theleangreenbean.com/nut-free-packaged-snacks/#comments Mon, 26 Aug 2024 04:00:00 +0000 https://www.theleangreenbean.com/?p=35422 This list of Peanut-Free and Tree Nut-Free Packaged Snacks is designed to help parents and caretakers who need to provide allergy-friendly snacks for their own kids or to an entire school class or daycare. *Originally published August 2019. Updated August 2024* Hi friends! This roundup of Peanut Free & Tree Nut Free Packaged Snacks for […]]]>

This list of Peanut-Free and Tree Nut-Free Packaged Snacks is designed to help parents and caretakers who need to provide allergy-friendly snacks for their own kids or to an entire school class or daycare.

Peanut-free and Tree Nut-free Packaged Snacks for School

*Originally published August 2019. Updated August 2024*

Hi friends!

This roundup of Peanut Free & Tree Nut Free Packaged Snacks for School has been highly requested. You guys have been asking me for nut-free ideas for YEARS, literally…and to be honest, I’ve been putting it off. I’m not an allergy mama. My kids don’t have allergies and their school doesn’t require them to be nut-free so I selfishly haven’t had a whole lot of reason to write this post. But I finally sat down and did it!

Note that all of these snack ideas would also be great in lunch boxes. If you need help with packed lunch ideas, check out my guide: A Month of Easy Packed Lunches For Kids.


I have a whole series on best of store-bought packaged snacks if you need more ideas:

Snacks from certain stores:

Types of snacks:


A few things to note before we go further:

  • This is not an all-inclusive list. There are a lot of options out there. Some of which are not the healthiest. It would be impossible to include them all, and as an RD I approached this list as still wanting it to be filled with snacks that have some nutritional value. Know that I did my best to include items that are somewhat healthy and that I would feel good about giving my own kids.
  • It’s still your responsibility to do your research. I spent a lot of time on websites and looking at packaging but things can change quickly in the manufacturing process so you still need to check all the labels yourself and check them every time you buy them..not just the first time.
  • I haven’t tried them all. Like I said, I’m not an allergy mama so we haven’t had the occasion to buy a lot of these products and therefore neither I nor my kids have tasted a lot of them.
  • Some wouldn’t be my first choice nutritionally. But most on this list are things I feel are good choices when packaged snacks are needed.

Nut Free Packaged Snacks for Kindergarteners and Beyond

The best way to determine if foods are allergy-free snacks is to read the label since brands should have a warning statement or allergen list. Be aware of phrases like this:

“May Contain Peanut or Tree Nuts.”

“Processed on shared equipment with Peanuts or Tree Nuts.”

“Manufactured in a plant with Peanut or Tree Nuts.”

“Contains Peanut or Tree Nut Ingredients.”

You can also check the FAQs on the website but packaging should have the most updated info.

Some schools give guidelines that foods must not contain peanut or tree nuts but don’t require them to be from nut-free facilities. Some do. Be familiar with the rules for wherever you’re sending food so you can make sure to choose snacks that comply with their guidelines. 

And remember that although choosing allergy-friendly options like this can be a pain if your family does not have allergies, it’s important for the safety of a lot of kids and allergy families appreciate you putting in the time and effort to keep their kids safe. My hope is that this list will make your job just a little bit easier.


List of Peanut Free Snacks & Nut Free Packaged Snacks For School

Here’s my list of peanut-free and tree nut-free packaged snacks from several allergy-friendly brands, many of which are known for keeping their facilities free of the top 8 allergens. You can click the hyperlinked brand name below each image to be taken to their website, use their store locator etc.

I’ve listed some of their products that might make good snacks. Most brands offer more products than the ones I’ve listed and you can use your discretion to choose those as well! And remember that some brands may have some products made in nut-free facilities and other products that are not so read carefully! I hope it gives you some new ideas if you need them for school and daycare lunches especially!

peanut and tree nut free snack ideas

Peanut Free Snacks

  • Made Good – Granola bars, granola minis, morning bars and crackers!
    • Free from the top 9 allergens, made in a nut-free facility
  • Safe & Fair – Granola, popcorn and pea protein chips. Plus Remy’s Graham crackers.
    • Free from the top 9 allergens, granola facility is top 9 allergen free
  • Enjoy Life – Lentil chips
    • Free from top 9 allergens, facility is nut-free, made in a facility that contains gluten using a certified gluten-free process
  • 88 Acres– Granola bars (seed & oat bars), protein bars, seed butters and granola.
    • Free from top 9 allergens, made in a top 9 free facility.
  • Zee Zees – Soft baked bars, trail mix, roasted chickpeas, sunflower seeds, dried fruit, applesauce, dips and spreads
    • Nut-free and free from several other allergens as well. Made in nut-free facility.
  • RW Garcia – Crackers and chips
    • Nut-free and gluten-free. Made in a peanut-free and tree nut-free facility.
  • PopChips – Chips
    • Don’t contain peanuts or treenuts. Certified gluten-free.
  • GoGo Squeez – Fruit squeez, fruit and veggie squeez, yogurt squeez, Go Go squeez morning smoothies
    • Nut-free and gluten-free, some are dairy-free.
peanut free snacks and nut free snacks

Snacks Peanut Free (Gluten Nut Free Snacks)

  • Nature’s Bakery – Fig bars, mini fig bars, oatmeal crumble bars,
    • Nut-free and free of many allergens except wheat (do have a gf bar option. Facility is nut-free.
    • Note these have 11-14g added sugar which is a bit high for an everyday snack in my opinion.
  • Skinny Pop – Popcorn
    • Peanut, tree nut and gluten free.
  • Chomps – Beef sticksS
    • Top 9 allergy free. Produced in facility where soy, milk and sesame are present.
  • Hippeas – Puffs, chips and straws.
    • Top 9 allergy free. Produced in facility on shared dairy lines but not shared with nut-containing products.
  • Blake’s Seed Based – Breakfast bars, granola bars, crispy treats
    • Top 9 allergy free. Made in a peanut-free, tree nut-free and gluten-free facility.
  • Veggies Made Great – Muffins, frittatas, veggie cakes and blondies
    • Peanut and tree nut free and made in a nut-free facility.
  • Beanfields– Bean and rice-based chips
    • Top 9 allergen free.
  • Biena – Roasted chickpeas and tasty thins (chickpea and veggie crisps)
    • Peanut and tree nut free
  • That’s It Fruit Bars – fruit bars, mini fruit bars, probiotic bars, energy bars, apple and pumpkin seed crunchables, and truffles.
    • Free from top 12 allergens.
  • The Good Crisp Company – chips
    • Peanut and tree nut free, made in peanut and tree nut free facility.
  • Cascadian Farms – Chocolate drizzled granola bars
    • Those boxes that are specifically marked are produced in a peanut-free facility
  • Annie’s Granola Bars – chocolate drizzled or chocolate dipped granola bars
    • They have a couple specifically made in a peanut-free facility. Look for the label.

peanut free and tree nut free desserts and treats

Peanut Free Treats

If you’re looking for treats to send with your kiddo for a special occasion, class party etc, here are some peanut and tree nut free options:

  • Rule Breaker – Cookies/blondies and mini cookies
    • Made with chickpeas. Top 11 allergy free and made in a top 11 allergy free facility.
  • Free2b – Sun cups and mini sun cups (filled with sunflower seed butter)
    • Top 10 allergy free, made in a top 10 allergy free facility
  • Made Good – Cookies
    • Top 9 allergy free, made in a top 9 allergy free facilty
  • Katz – Creme cakes, donuts, creme-filled cupcakes and more.
    • Gluten-free, peanut and tree nut free, made in a GF, nut free and peanut free facility.
  • Zee Zees Soft Baked Bars– lots of fun flavors like birthday cake and s’mores.
    • Nut-free facility
  • Abe’s – Cakes, mini muffins and cupcakes, brownies, pound cake.
    • Peanut free and tree nut free facility (except coconut).
  • Better Bites – Cupcakes, cake bites and do bites.
    • Top 8 allergen free, dedicated facility
  • Home Free – Cookies
    • Free of top 14 allergies, dedicated peanut/tree nut free facility
  • Kinnikinnick – Cookies, breads, buns, donuts, pie crusts
    • Peanut, tree nut, gluten, soy and dairy free.
  • Yum Earth – Candy, lollipops, fruit snacks
    • Top 9 allergy free

nut butter alternatives spreads

Nut-butter alternatives

Pair with pretzels, fruit, celery etc for dipping, put on sandwiches and more!

  • SunButter
    • Made with sunflower seeds. Creamy, crunchy and chocolate flavors, plus jammie sandwiches
  • WowButter
    • Made with soy. Creamy and crunchy options.
  • 88 Acres Seed Butter
    • Made with pumpkin and sunflower seeds. Plain, chocolate and vanilla cinnamon.
  • Oat Haus Granola Butter
    • Made with oats and flax. Vanilla, birthday cake, brownie batter, cinnamon roll and more flavors.
  • The Amazing Chickpea
    • Made with chickpeas. Plain, apple cinnamon, banana bread, chocolate and more flavors.
  • Tahini
    • Made from sesame seeds. Add honey or maple syrup to sweeten

nut free snacks for school

Peanut Free and Tree Nut-Free (Nut-Allergy Free Snacks)

There are also some other packaged snacks that I frequently see mentioned on allergy-friendly lists. Some of their websites say the snacks themselves are peanut/tree nut free but the facilities are not. For some of the others I couldn’t find specific info about the facilities so you’ll need to do your own research based on how strict the guidelines are at your school/facility:

  • Cereal- Cheerios, Chex, Original Barbara’s Puffins
  • Triscuits
  • Goldfish/Cheddar Bunnies
  • SunChips
  • Pirate Booty
  • Veggie Straws
  • Dino Bars – *contain coconut oil
  • Harvest Snaps
  • Pringles
  • Nutrigrain bars

And a few other packaged snack ideas:
(DO YOUR RESEARCH AND CHECK THE LABELS)

  • String cheese
  • Fruit: fresh, dried, freeze-dried, fruit leathers, dried fruit bars, fruit cups
  • Individual guacamole and hummus cups
  • Hard-boiled eggs
  • Yogurt cups/tubes/pouches
  • Shelf-stable milk boxes
  • Cottage cheese + fruit cups
  • Meat sticks/jerky
  • 8oz Lifeway kefir
  • Mini bagel with cream cheese
  • Tortilla chips with guacamole

So there you go! Hope that was helpful.


Please remember – I spent a lot of time and energy on this post, but things change. You are responsible for checking the labels and doing research on the things you choose to buy!

This list of Peanut-Free and Tree Nut-Free Packaged Snacks is designed to help parents and caretakers who need to provide allergy-friendly snacks for their own kids or to an entire school class or daycare.

And if you’re looking for more snack ideas check out these posts:

Enjoy!
–Lindsay–

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Healthy Snacks At Costco For The Whole Family https://www.theleangreenbean.com/healthy-snacks-costco/ https://www.theleangreenbean.com/healthy-snacks-costco/#comments Fri, 23 Aug 2024 12:00:00 +0000 https://www.theleangreenbean.com/?p=38933 Looking for healthy snacks at Costco? This list includes 50+ options that the whole family will love! Crunchy snacks, high protein snacks, granola bars and more. *Originally published 8/2021. Updated 8/2025* These Healthy Costco Snacks are healthy, affordable and perfect for snacks and lunches. They are kid-friendly and easy to prep and eat – great […]]]>

Looking for healthy snacks at Costco? This list includes 50+ options that the whole family will love! Crunchy snacks, high protein snacks, granola bars and more.

healthy snacks at costco the whole family will love

*Originally published 8/2021. Updated 8/2025*

Best Costco Snacks 2025

Hi friends!

A couple of years ago I shared a list of our favorite things to buy at Costco. Recently I’ve been getting a lot of requests for snack ideas so I compiled a list of healthy Costco snacks to give you some new ideas.

Here are some other stores I’ve covered:

If you need more ideas, for specific kinds of snacks, here are some posts to check out:

These snacks would also be great for packed lunches. Check out my Month of Easy Packed Lunches for Kids if you need more lunch box ideas!

Why You’ll Love These Healthy Costco Snacks

  • Kid-friendly
  • High in protein and fiber
  • Good for school snacks
  • Can be packed in lunch boxes for healthy packed lunches
  • A mix of pantry staples, fresh ingredients and freezer-friendly options

How can I choose snacks with low added sugar at Costco?

I’ve tried to include some of the nutrition info that I look at when choosing snacks, including protein, fiber, sugar and sodium., but remember there are no hard and fast rules when it comes to snack guidelines. As a Registered Dietitian and mom of 3, here are some that I use when purchasing for my own kids and recommending for others:

  • Most of the time I try to choose snacks that have at least 2g of both protein and fiber for kids.
  • I always try to make sure snacks include protein so if I have a carb-based snack like crackers or cereal, I pair with a protein like cheese, yogurt, turkey etc.
  • I try to limit added sugar to 6g or less whenever possible, occasionally 7-8 grams).

What are some low-sodium snack options at Costco?

When it comes to sodium, it usually doesn’t make or break my snack decisions. I’ve included it mostly so you can see how the amounts vary from snack to snack. Some crackers and granola bars are higher in sodium than others.

Things like cheese and jerky can also be high in sodium. It’s mostly something I take note of at snack time and if I’m serving something higher sodium like a cheese stick, deli meat or jerky, I try to balance it with something lower sodium like fruit, a homemade muffin, etc.


How does Costco’s healthy snack selection vary by location?

I’ve tried to group the snacks into categories to make it easy for you. Also, remember that Costco stores vary regionally and also seasonally. This is my list of the best Costco healthy snacks 2024 that were available at my Costco in Columbus, OH.

Are there nut-free healthy snacks available at Costco?

Yes! There are some great options. I’ve tried to note whether the products are gluten-free/nut-free when I was able to verify but if you have allergies/intolerances, please do your own research. If you need more allergy-friendly snacks, check out my Peanut & Tree Nut Free Packaged Snacks post.

What types of healthy snacks does Costco offer for families?

This snack list is not just for kids! It can be used as a guide for anyone looking to make healthy snacks a part of their day. As the year goes by, I will do my best to update this post with new items I see so that you can keep an eye out for them.

What are some healthy snack pairings found at Costco?

Here are some of my Costco favorites, plus ideas for pairing them to make balanced snacks!


Healthy Snacks At Costco

healthy crunchy snacks from costco

Costco Chips and Snacks (Crunchy)

Are there healthy crunchy snacks available at Costco?

Costco has tons of great snack options that will give you that satisfying crunch! Remember that some crunchy foods like popcorn can be a choking hazard for younger kids. I talk a little more about safe snacks for younger kiddos in this post- Healthy Snacks For Toddlers. Here are some of my favorite crunchy snacks:

  • Food Should Taste Good Multigrain Tortilla Chips – 2g protein, 2g fiber, 0g sugar, 75mg sodium (Gluten-free, nuts not in ingredient list but not guaranteed)
  • Hippeas – 4g protein, 3g fiber, 2g sugar, 140mg sodium (gluten-free, nut-free)
  • Harvest Snaps – 5g protein, 4g fiber, 0g sugar, 75mg sodium (gluten-free, nut-free)
  • Crunchmaster Crackers – 3g protein, 2g fiber, 0g sugar, 110mg sodium (gluten-free, nut-free made in peanut-free facility)
  • Peanut Butter Pretzels – 4g protein, 1g fiber, <1g sugar, 230mg sodium
  • RW Garcia Sweet Potato Crackers – 2g protein, 1g fiber, 2g sugar/no added sugar, 50mg sodium (gluten-free, made in peanut/treenut free facility)
  • Simple Mills Almond Flour Crackers – 3g protein, 2g fiber, 0g sugar, 180mg sodium (gluten-free)
  • Sonoma Pizza Crisps – 13g protein, 0g fiber, 1g sugar(0g added), 330mg sodium (gluten-free, nut-free)
  • Triscuits – 3g protein, 3g fiber, 0g sugar, 160mg sodium (nut-free)
  • Skinny Pop Popcorn – 2g protein, 3g fiber, 0g sugar, 75mg sodium (gluten-free, nut-free)
  • Sun Chips – 2g protein, 2g fiber, 2g sugar, 140 mg sodium (nut-free)
  • Whisps Cheese Crisps – 13g protein, 0g fiber, 0g sugar, 350mg sodium (gluten-free, nut-free)

healthy granola bars from costco

Granola Bars from Costco

  • Aussie Bites – 2g protein, 2g fiber, 8g sugar, 90mg sodium (shared equipment with wheat, peanut & treenut)
  • Perfect Bar – 17g protein, 3g fiber, 19g sugar (13g added), 50mg sodium *higher in sugar than i like but also high in protein and low in sodium (gluten-free)
  • KIND Minis – 3g protein, 3g fiber, 3g sugar/2g added, 70mg sodium (gluten-free)
  • KIND Nut Bar Variety Pack – 6g protein, 7g fiber, 5g sugar(4g added), 140mg sodium (gluten-free)
  • Larabar – 5g protein, 3g fiber, 17g sugar/4g added, 65mg sodium (gluten-free)
  • Made Good Granola Minis – 1g protein, 2g fiber, 6g sugar, 10mg sodium (gluten-free, nut-free)
  • RX Bars – 12g protein, 5g fiber, 13g sugar(0 added sugar), 260 mg sodium (gluten-free)
  • Nature Valley Chewy Fruit & Nut Bars– 3g protein, 2g fiber, 8g sugar(6g added), 65mg sodium
  • Clif Nut Butter Bars – 7g protein, 3g fiber, 9g sugar/6g added, 150mg sodium

healthy protein snacks costco

Costco Protein Snacks

Can I find high protein snacks at Costco?

Yes! Check out some of these options. There are some great choices for a variety of diets including gluten-free, vegan and more!

  • Kirkland Trail Mix – 5g protein, 2g fiber, 10g sugar/4g added, 40 mg sodium (no gluten-containing ingredients)
  • Kirkland Cheese Fruit & Nut Packs -8g protein, 1g fiber, 8g sugar/7g added, 160mg sodium
  • Country Archer Mini Beef Sticks – 4g protein, 0g fiber, 0g sugar, 200mg sodium (gluten-free, nut-free)
  • Chomps Beef Sticks – 10g protein, 0g fiber, 0g sugar, 380 mg sodium (gluten-free, nut-free)
  • Babybel Cheese – 5g protein, 0g fiber, 0g sugar, 160mg sodium (gluten-free, nut-free)
  • Kirkland Organic Hard-Boiled Eggs -6g protein, 0g fiber, 0g sugar, 60mg sodium (gluten-free, nut-free)
  • Perdue Panko Chicken Nuggets – 13g protein, 1g fiber, 1g sugar, 450mg sodium
  • Organic Valley Stringles – 7g protein, 0g fiber, 1g sugar/0g added, 210 mg sodium (gluten-free, nut-free)
  • Dietz & Watson Originals Turkey – 11g protein, 0g fiber, 0g sugar, 360mg sodium (gluten-free)
  • Chobani Less Sugar Greek Yogurt – 12g protein, 0g fiber, 9g sugar/4g added, 50mg sodium (gluten-free,
  • Wholly Guacamole Minis – 1g protein, 2g fiber, 1g sugar, 240mg sodium (gluten-free, nut free…this is a healthy fat, not a protein. Pair with carbs for a balanced snack!)
  • Nuts – They sell large bags of nuts that you can use to make your own trail mix!
  • Kirkland Snacking Nuts – 9g protein, 5g fiber, 2g sugar, 320mg sodium (processed on equipment shared with wheat)
  • Go Raw Organic Pumpkin Seeds – 8g protein, 2g fiber, 0g sugar, 140mg sodium (gluten-free, nut-free)
  • Honey Smoked Fish Co Salmon – 12g protein, 0g fiber, 0g sugar, 420mg sodium (gluten-free, nut-free)
  • Columbus Low Sodium Salami – 7g protein, 0g fiber, 1g sugar, 340 mg sodium (gluten-free, nut-free)
  • Jack Links Beef & Cheese Sticks– 8g protein, 0g fiber, 0g sugar, 510mg sodium (gluten-free, nut-free)

healthy carbs costco snacks

Healthy Carb Snacks From Costco

  • Cheerios – 5g protein, 4g fiber, 2g sugar, 190mg sodium (gluten-free)
  • Dave’s Killer Bread – 5g protein, 5g fiber, 5g added sugar, 170mg sodium (nut-free)
  • Kodiak Cakes Pancake Mix – 14g protein, 5g fiber, 3g sugar/2g added, 380mg sodium (no nut ingredients but processed on shared equipment with tree nuts)
  • Lotus Foods Rice Ramen – 4g protein, 2g fiber, 0g sugar, 0g sodium (gluten-free, no nut ingredients but some products processed in facility that contains nuts)
  • Kirkland Hummus Cups – 4g protein, 3g fiber, 1g sugar, 290mg sodium (gluten-free)
  • Brownberry Multigrain Sandwich Thins – 6g protein, 3g fiber, 3g sugar/2g added, 300mg sodium
  • Quaker Oats – 5g protein, 4g fiber, 1g sugar, 0g sodium
  • Veggies Made Great Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins – 3g protein, 1g fiber, 10g sugar/6g added, 160 mg sodium (gluten-free, nut-free)
  • Brownberry Oatnut Bread – 4g protein, 2g fiber, 3g sugar, 150mg sodium
  • Siete Foods Tortillas – 1g protein, 3g fiber, 1g sugar/0g added, 220mg sodium
  • Mush Overnight Oats – 5g protein, 4g fiber, 8g sugar/0g added, 130mg sodium (gluten-free)
  • Goodles – 14 protein, 7g fiber, 6g sugar, 590 mg sodium
  • Kirkland Ancient Grains Granola – 5g protein, 6g fiber, 9g sugar/8g added, 135mg sodium (processed in a facility that uses peanuts/tree nuts)

healthy fruit snacks costco

Fruit Snacks From Costco

Here are some great fruit-based options for snacks from Costco:

  • Mott’s Applesauce – 0g protein, 1g fiber, 11g sugar/0 added, 0mg sodium (pair with a protein source! gluten-free, nut-free)
  • Kirkland Three Berry Blend Frozen Berries -2g protein, 5g fiber, 10g sugar/0g added, 0g sodium (mix with spinach and milk for an easy smoothie!)
  • Gogosqueez – 0g protein, 3g fiber, 12g sugar/0g added, 0mg sodium (gluten-free, nut-free)
  • Kirkland Sunsweet Dried Plums – 1g protein, 3g fiber, 15g sugar/0g added, 0mg sodium (there are TONS of dried fruits available. Pair with a protein option for a more filling snack, use in trailmix etc!)
  • Del Monte Fruit in 100% juice – 0g protein, 1g fiber, 13g sugar/0g added, 10 mg sodium (gluten-free, nut-free)
  • That’s It Mini Fruit Bars– 1g protein, 2g fiber, 10g sugar/0g added, 15mg sodium (gluten-free, nut-free)
  • Bear Fruit Rolls – 0g protein, 2g fiber, 8g sugar/0g added, 0g sodium (gluten-free, nut-free)
  • Once Upon A Farm Fruit & Veggie Blends– 1g protein, 2g fiber, 8g sugar/0g added, 0mg sodium

Remember to pair these snacks with protein/fiber/healthy fats to make a more balanced, filling snack!

healthy hemp hearts and flax seed

I also always have these bags of ground flax and hemp hearts at home to add to homemade snacks. I mix them into yogurt, pancakes, waffles, smoothies, muffins and bars. I sprinkle them on peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. Basically any time I can add them, I do!


healthy minimal prep snacks Costco

What are some healthy snacks at Costco that require minimal preparation?

Here are some premade options that could be eaten for a quick snack. Some of these are higher in sodium but you may need to weigh that with the convenience factor to see if it’s a good choice for you occasionally:

  • Pro2Go Grilled Chicken Strips – 18g protein, 0g fiber, 0g sugar, 380 mg sodium (gluten-free)
  • Frankly Fresh Chicken Breast Burrito Bowl – 30g protein, 7g fiber, 4g sugar, 720mg sodium (gluten-free)
  • Amylu Teriyaki Pineapple Chicken Meatballs – 14g protein, 0g fiber, 4g sugar(2g added), 750mg sodium (gluten-free)
  • Don Lee Farms Green Chili Shredded Chicken & Riced Cauliflower Bowl – 23g protein, 4g fiber, 3g sugar(0g added), 570 mg sodium (gluten-free)
  • Don Lee Farms Crispy Shredded Chicken Tacos – 14g protein, 2g fiber, 3g sugar (0g added), 510mg sodium
  • Ling Ling Chicken & Vegetable Potstickers – 12g protein, 2g fiber, 4g sugar(3g added), 570mg sodium
  • El Monterey Chicken & Cheese Taquitos – 10g protein, 1g fiber, 0g sugar, 340mg sodium
  • Imperial Garden Edamame – 12g protein, 4g fiber, 2g sugar, 5mg sodium (gluten-free)
  • Trident Fish Sticks– 12g protein, 1g fiber, 0g sugar, 320mg sodium

Costco Vegan Snacks

Are there any vegan snack options at Costco?

Looking specifically for vegan snacks? Here are a few:

  • Hippeas
  • Made Good Granola Minis
  • Simple Mills Almond Flour Crackers
  • Harvest Snaps
  • Skinny Pop
  • Dried Fruit
  • Barnana Plantain Chips
  • RW Garcia Sweet Potato Crackers
  • Wheat Thins
  • Triscuits
  • Larabar
  • That’s It Minis
  • Kirkland Ancient Grains Granola
  • Cheerios
  • Dave’s Killer Bread
  • Lotus Foods Rice Ramen
  • Kirkland Hummus Cups
  • All the fruit options listed above!

Did you find any new ideas? Pin this post for later! What are your favorite Costco snacks?


Are there gluten-free snack options available at Costco?

Yes! Being gluten-free myself, I know there are plenty of gluten-free options at Costco. Some of my favorites include the honey smoked salmon, Crunchmaster and Simple Mills crackers, Skinny Pop, That’s It Fruit Bars paired with a cheese stick, Chomps and homemade trailmix using all of their nuts and seeds. There are plenty more gluten-free options as well!


Costco Snacks To Buy

Looking for healthy snacks at Costco? This list includes 50+ options that the whole family will love! Cruchy snacks, high protein snacks, granola bars and more.

These healthy Costco snacks are affordable and nutritious, perfect for at-home and on the go snacking for busy families looking for healthy and nutritious snack options.

Enjoy!
–Lindsay–

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