Shopping·11 min read

theSkimm on The Best Snacks to Get You Through Your Day

snacks
Design: theSkimm | Photos: Amazon, Banza
September 18, 2023

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One of our editors brought back her childhood snack time when she was in college, and hasn’t stopped since. (Hi, that editor is me). There’s something relaxing about taking a little break in the afternoon to nourish and hydrate yourself. You fuel your gas tank for the rest of your day, plus get a moment of silence to recenter. I’ve rounded up some of my favorite snacks and beverages that add a little pep in my step in the hopes they do the same for you.

Banza

Protein waffles from one of my favorite brands…

What isn’t there to love about Banza? Of course, I love their chickpea pasta and pizza crusts, but the latest in their roundup = these delicious toaster waffles. So if these were a go-to in your childhood, you’ll love this protein-packed version from the brand. They’re perfect for an easy breakfast or an afternoon snack. My favorite combo: peanut butter and banana on a waffle. Chef’s kiss. ($35.99/6 pack, Banza)

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Target

The sweet trail mix from Target I’m obsessed with…

Monster Mix forever. This trail mix is perfect for the days when your sweet tooth feels a bit out of control. It’s a mix of peanuts, mini peanut butter chips, raisins, M&M’S, peanut butter chocolate candies, peanut butter pretzel balls, and mini peanut butter cups. So…it’s pretty much a peanut butter lover's dream. ($8.79, Target)

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Amazon

Dried fruit bars that are perfect for commuting…

Want the benefits of fruit but don’t want to bite into an apple on the subway? Pack these bars from That’s It. They come in a variety of flavor combinations and are 100% dried fruit. ($18.99+/12 pack, Amazon)

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Amazon

The underrated snack my coworkers are obsessed with…

So filling, so delicious. These bars from Jonesbar are everything. They’ve got a date base and are filled with only whole ingredients. The best flavor of all is hands down PB&J. They’re made of organic dates, peanuts, strawberries, chia seeds, and Himalayan pink sea salt. Plus, they’re certified organic, certified kosher, gluten-free, vegan, soy-free, and have no added sugar or fillers. ($26.89/12 pack, Amazon)

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Amazon

Chickpea puffs that are vegan-friendly…

I huffed, and I puffed, and I ate...every last bite of these yummy snacks. The light, airy puffs mimic the texture of Cheez Doodles and have 6 grams of protein and 5 grams of fiber per serving. They’re also a great option for those with allergies or food sensitivities: They’re kosher, vegan, and free of soy, peanuts, tree nuts, and gluten. ($18.99+/6 bags, Amazon)

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Amazon

Gluten-free peanut butter pretzels…

Introducing this pandemic find that’s stood the test of time. These pretzels from Quinn are so addicting, and the extra bit of peanut butter means you’ll stay full for longer. They’re the perfect mix of sweet and salty. ($39.52/4 bags, Amazon)

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Target

Single-serving bags of popcorn…

This is the best bagged popcorn I’ve ever had. It’s made with Himalayan sea salt and extra-virgin coconut oil, but still has that classic buttery taste. Combine with your favorite trail mix for a movie theater-esque snacktime. ($5.49/8 mini bags, Target)

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Amazon

Mini Clif Bars…

You can’t ever go wrong with a Clif Bar. I love these minis for quick bites on the go, as a pre-workout pick, or as a snack between meals. Each has about 4 grams of protein per bar and is made of chocolate chips and organic oats. Chocolate chip cookie energy, for sure. ($15.07/20 mini bars, Amazon)

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Early Bird

The classic granola of my dreams…

Nothing beats Early Bird’s Farmhand’s Choice granola. It has everything you could ever want in a granola, like pecans, sunflower seeds, coconut, oats, pumpkin seeds, brown sugar, and rich olive oil. Eat it on its own, sprinkle it on top of yogurt and smoothies, or treat it like a cereal. ($11+, Early Bird)

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Mosh

Snack bars meant to promote brain health…

These gluten-free, keto-friendly bars from Mosh come in tons of flavors, like Cookie Dough Crunch, Dark Chocolate Crunch, and Cookies and Cream Crunch. Founded by Maria Shriver and Patrick Schwarzenegger, Mosh worked with neuroscientists and functional nutritionists to create a blend that’s supposed to support your brain. Each bar has a blend of collagen, lion’s mane, ashwagandha, omega-3s, and so much more. Try them out to change up your snack rotation. ($43.99/12 pack, Mosh)

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Amazon

The nut-free spread I love…

I will forever be addicted to Oat Haus. This spreadable granola butter has a base of oats, flax, maple syrup, coconut oil, olive oil, salt, and spices. It comes in tons of delightful flavors, like Brownie Batter and Vanilla (which reminds me of cookie butter). You can eat it straight out of the jar, but I love it paired with yogurt, apples, and on toast. The best part? It’s vegan, kosher, nut-, soy-, and dairy-free, non-GMO and free of the top 14 allergens. PS: Read my full review here. ($12.95, Amazon)

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Mush

Premade overnight oats…

Mush = a daily essential. These delicious premade oats travel easily and are the perfect hearty sweet treat. Most flavors have a base of dates, rolled oats, and almond milk. That’s it. Eat it on its own or get creative and add your favorite mix-ins. ($29.99/8 pack, Mush)

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Amazon

A variety pack of no-shell pistachio nuts…

You won’t have to worry about where to discard those shells when you’re on the go. These have either 4 or 5 grams of protein per bag, plus some fiber to boot. We love the chili-roasted flavor with a bit of a spicy kick, and the honey-roasted flavor that will fulfill your craving for both something savory and sweet with less than a gram of added sugar. BTW, these are gluten-free, non-GMO, and are a great source of vitamin B6 — healthy immune and nervous system, we’re looking at you. ($7.48/9 pack, Amazon)

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Amazon

Ultra-satisfying graham crackers from Simple Mills…

PSA: Graham crackers aren’t just for kids. These Honey Cinnamon Sweet Thins are spicy, snappy, and will have you ready for fall. They’re crunchy and bite-sized, and I love that they’re made with good-for-you ingredients like flax and nutrient-dense flours. ($16.50, Amazon)

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Amazon

Veggie pita crackers…

It’ll be your go-to spread’s new best friend. These zesty crackers from Simple Mills are an elevated take on your classic pita chip. They’re made of a vegetable flour blend with sweet potato, parsnip, and celery root for extra health benefits and flavor. I love this alongside a classic hummus and veggie platter, or crushed up in a salad for some added crunch. ($4.27, Amazon)

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Amazon

A classic vegan protein bar that comes in dessert-inspired flavors…

The afternoon slumps hit and you might want something sweet, but you don’t want your energy to spike and crash. These dairy- and gluten-free bars from Misfits are low in sugar and have 15 grams of protein. Do not mistake a high-protein bar for something that tastes chalky and bland. My coworker loves these bars because they come in the best flavors, from Chocolate S’mores to Chocolate Cookie Butter. Yes, please. ($26.99+/12 pack, Amazon)

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Plus, a couple of fun beverages I love

Amazon

A refreshing sparkling water with traditional Asian flavors…

Sanzo is single-handedly getting my team through our 3pm sluggishness. They’re tart, fun to drink, and we love that they’re also made with real fruit. One editor can’t get enough of the yuzu with ginger, lychee, mango, and calamansi flavors. We recommend getting the sampler to get you started. ($39.99/12 pack, Amazon)

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Narra

Easy oat milk tea lattes from Narra…

No time to head to the cafe? No worries. These delicious lattes have no added sugar and no dairy. Pick from Strawberry Matcha, Black Milk Tea, or Roasted Oolong (or try all three flavors in their Variety Pack). Just grab your favorite glass, some ice, and pour. ($30+/6 pack, Narra)

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Poppi

The prebiotic soda the Internet can’t get enough of…

Poppi is everywhere and with good reason. The apple cider vinegar-filled beverages are a welcomed swap for your regular sodas and sparkling waters. Each can has about one tablespoon of ACV, which may aid in digestion, lower cholesterol, and so much more. Usually ACV is overpowering in taste, but because it's blended into yummy flavors like Raspberry Rose (my favorite) or Ginger Lime, you can’t taste a thing. As it approaches 5pm, you might want to pour it into your favorite wine glass. Cheers. ($21.49+/12 pack, Amazon)

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