If there's been one constant over the last month, it has been the need for snacks. I'm talking midnight (read: 1:00am, 2:00am, AND maybe even 3:00am) snacks and a constant mission to the fridge in between meals during the day.
The memes on the internet right now are right - quarantine snacks are a whole mood. And honestly? I'm here for it.
However, just because we are heading to the pantry and fridge more doesn't mean we have to grab goldfish and/or apples all day (not that there is anything wrong with goldfish and apples), because that's BORING.
Now I know resources are limited and we should all be cutting our trips to the grocery store and staying at home. But I'm a firm believer that the stores will reopen in time, and if there's anything we can come out of this period with, it is knowledge on how to up our snack game.
If you have the means, many of the brands I'm going to mention below have safe delivery systems that make ordering online not only easy, but a great way to support local businesses. Because at times like these, there are many companies struggling to stay afloat - so supporting in the safest ways possible is one of the best ways to give back.
1. Make granola a lifestyle.
Granola is underrated. It can serve all purposes - you can have it by itself as a snack or for a dessert, use it in recipes, or my personal favorite: make it a meal with yogurt, fruit, and nut butter.
The best part about granola is that you can use pantry staples to make it at home, or you can try some legendary combinations from brands like Bear Naked. They have a secret stash collection on their website that is BEYOND - I'm talking Dark Chocolate Hazelnut and White Chocolate Macadamia. The best part is they use well-sourced ingredients, so it's a snack that will sneak in a lot of great nutrients to help you feel full for a longer period of time. And maybe even reduce snacking frequency so you can make the most of your resources! You can find Bear Naked products online or in most local grocery stores.
A brand I love is Purely Elizabeth - their products are non-GMO project verified, certified gluten-free, certified made with organic ingredients, certified vegan, contain no artificial additives or soy, and are made with innovative, nutrient-rich ingredients that add delicious flavor and texture. You can also find Purely Elizabeth products in most local grocery stores, with a wide variety at Whole Foods.
2. Choose better BARS
It can be hard to navigate snack bars - there are so many options and finding the differences is difficult. But there are three brands that stand out to me and make for great, energy filled, satisfying snacks.
CORE Bars provide your body everything it needs to keep your core happy. When you give your body the balanced nutrition it needs, Protein, Prebiotic Fiber and Probiotics, your body works at its best and stays satisfied. They are the first overnight oat bar of it's kind and are filled with real ingredients like dates, nuts, and real protein without isolates. You will find them in the refrigerated section of the grocery store because they are so fresh. I love the peanut butter chocolate flavor - but they have a great variety to choose from. Shop online or in stores.
Go Macro: I've already written an article showcasing my love and appreciation for Go Macro bars, but I thought I'd drop in and mention that they have a NEW flavor - double chocolate peanut butter - and it's next level. I think it might actually be my new favorite, which is saying a lot. Long story short, Go Macro bars are 100% plant-based, coming from organic and non-GMO certified growers who follow sustainable farming practices. All of their products provide a nutritional benefit without any additives or preservatives. They are an organization really trying to do GOOD in the world - they give back and and emphasize sustainability, powered 100% by renewable energy. Shop online or in stores.
Perfect Bar: Don't get me started here - I've also written an article about how perfect Perfect Bars are and my opinion has only grown stronger. They have since added more incredible flavors - my favorites being Trail Mix, Chocolate Mint (think Thin Mint in disguise), and Chocolate Hazelnut Crisp (NUTELLA). Not to mention they now cell Peanut Butter Cups which take Reese's to the next level, but are sourced with great, healthy ingredients. They also are a company focused on doing good and promoting health by filling their bars with 20+ organic super foods and emphasizing real, wholesome foods. Shop online or in stores.
3. Turn the unavoidables HEALTHY.
Popcorn. Chips. Crackers. Cheeseballs. The unavoidable, everlasting snacks of all ages. They are great but they can be so empty - filled with no good ingredients or nutrients to help us feel full and focused.
Well, that used to be the case, at least. Until now.
Pipsnacks is a women-owned company that uses heirloom corn to create superior snacks - which is perfect for superior snacking, if you ask me. Heirloom corn is at the base of all their snacks, which is filled with has more nutrition than commercially grown popcorn, including fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins. They have popcorn, cheeseballs, corn dippers, and crackers that are not only filled with better ingredients, but have a distinctly delicious flavor and an especially satisfying crunch. They are sustainable and Oprah even voted them as her favorite, so we best listen. Shop online or in stores.
Siete Foods has also transformed the unavoidables - specifically tortilla chips - with their grain-free chips. With flavors ranging from Nacho to Lime, they really have it all - not to mention a line of dairy free dips to go with them. That is in addition to their tortillas, taco shells and seasonings, hot sauces, and sauces. Really, they have everything. Siete foods is a mission-based company also focused on promoting good, not just through sourcing good ingredients. They are incredible. Shop online or in stores.
So there you have it - three top tips to boost your quarantine snack game. Happy snacking!