Have a Gold Fish obsessed child?<\/strong> \u00a0Throw in some crunchy Good Bean roasted chickpeas <\/a>with their next snack.<\/p>\n Does\u00a0your little one\u00a0go crazy for melt-in-your-mouth Cheetos?<\/strong> \u00a0 Snap Pea Crisps<\/a>\u00a0might be their new favourite snack (and WAY\u00a0better for them).<\/p>\n Are you ready to put an end\u00a0to mealtime batt<\/a>les\u00a0or improve your little one’s\u00a0variety<\/a>? \u00a0This list of Healthy Packaged Snacks for Kids is a great place to start.<\/p>\n When whole foods are not an option, we want packaged foods made<\/em> with whole foods. We should aim for high fiber, high protein, and low sugar.\u00a0 Instead of avoiding the middle aisles of a grocery store, I’ve searched high and low for healthy packaged snacks for Kids that they will love, and most importantly, you can feel good about giving them.<\/p>\n Most packaged foods are filled with “crap” and added sweeteners, which send our children on\u00a0a blood sugar roller coaster (tantrums anyone<\/a>?).<\/p>\n In my list of the top 19 healthy packaged snacks for kids (I seriously could not find one more to hit 20), you can expect snacks that are:<\/p>\n The “Better” and “Good” snacks have higher amounts of sugar and processing, but\u00a0still have some great nutritional qualities.<\/p>\n Grab them here: USA<\/a>, Canada<\/a><\/b><\/p>\n Sustainably-grown roasted seaweed snack with a touch of organic extra virgin olive oil and a pinch of sea salt. There are no artificial colours, preservatives or GMOs and are a healthy alternative to chips. \u00a0Although these sea snacks are not significant for their protein or fibre content, they have no sugar and are a significant source of iodine, magnesium, potassium, iron, zinc, copper and selenium.<\/p>\n Get them here: Canada<\/a><\/p>\n This is a new take on the roasted chickpea. We’ve now got roasted lentils in the house! They are a\u00a0 very high source of fibre, h<\/span>igh in protein, <\/span>Nut Free, <\/span>Gluten Free, <\/span>Vegan.<\/span><\/p>\n Grab them here: Canada<\/a>, USA<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n This chickpea snack is roasted and packs a good crunch. \u00a0Sienna loves the plain ol’ Sea Salt version and one of my favourites is the Cinnamon Sugar (yes, I admittedly have a sweet tooth). \u00a0They are a little higher in sugar than other snacks, but have\u00a0an impressive 5 grams of protein and 5 grams of fiber. \u00a0The company website proudly boasts that one serving of their chickpeas offers as much fibre as eating two cups of broccoli and as much folate as three cups of spinach.<\/p>\n Grab them here: Canada<\/a>, USA<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n These are certified organic, wheat free and gluten free. \u00a0These\u00a0<\/span>crackers are delicious on their own or topped with your favourite topping. Both parents and kids will devour these with a satisfying crunch and mom’s can feel good knowing that they have no sugar, 3 grams of fiber and 3 grams of protein.<\/p>\n Grab them here: Canada<\/a>, USA equivalent<\/a><\/strong> This was the first packaged snack I gave to Sienna, when I used to break all the mealtime rules. \u00a0Before I knew that grazing was counterproductive for kids, I would let Sienna snack throughout the day and have a LARABAR on hand\u00a0for those ‘just in case’ moments. \u00a0I love that they are so simply made with dried fruit and nuts being the main ingredients. \u00a0While they provide a good boost of energy, the healthy fats (10 grams), protein (4 grams) and fiber (5 grams) help to balance the blood sugar spike. \u00a0They also contain no dairy, gluten, soy, or grains and\u00a0are made entirely from plant-based foods. Even their bars with chocolate chips are 100% vegan.<\/p>\n Grab them here: Canada<\/a>, USA equivalent<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n I’m a convert.\u00a0 I used to be all about the almond butter, cashew butter, and even peanut butter back in the day.\u00a0 But knowing what I know now as a Nutritionist, pumpkin seeds are where we get more nutrients for our buck.\u00a0 I love spreading some on a banana, a homemade dehydrated onion bread, or on rice crackers.\u00a0 It does have more of an earthy taste and appearance but don’t let the green tinge scare you off.\u00a0 You and your kids will get a boost of incredibly important minerals including magnesium (for energy and relaxation) and zinc (for immune strength), plus antioxidants.<\/p>\n Grab them here: Canada<\/a>, USA equivalent<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n My little addiction.\u00a0 And they seem to be becoming a fave for my kids as well…not at 4 months old though! (this is an old photo).\u00a0 These “chips” are not only healthy, but the company uses environmentally friendly “cooking” methods. \u00a0They\u00a0have 2 grams of protein, 1 gram of fiber and only 1 gram of sugar. \u00a0As an added nutritional bonus, kale is packed with vitamins and nutrients such as vitamin A, C, B6, manganese, copper and potassium. \u00a0Note: This snack does contain nuts (cashews).<\/p>\n Get them here: Canada<\/a>, USA<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n This is my latest discovery as far as packaged snacks go and I am pretty excited about it.\u00a0 The ingredients: \u00a0Dried coconut (some have flavouring).\u00a0 That’s it! \u00a0Coconut alone is a nutrient-dense food with healthy fats, 6 grams of fibre, and 8 grams of protein. \u00a0They are kosher, vegan, organic, GMO-free, gluten-free, and free of everything a mom or dad might worry about. \u00a0If you’re looking for some variety they also come in a few different flavours.<\/p>\n Get them here: Canada<\/a>, USA<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n I know, I know.\u00a0 We want kids to eat more veggies.\u00a0 Well, here’s your Plan B (or Plan Z if you feel like you’ve tried it all).\u00a0 Made Good Granola Bites are GF, Organic, free from the common allergens and containing nutrients of vegetables.\u00a0 They are selling like hot cakes over here, so I’m sure your kids will like them too.<\/p>\n Get them here: Canada <\/a>(this is a mix), USA<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n Pre-cut veggies like carrots and cucumber and\/or Mary’s Gone Crackers plus these\u00a0convenient mini\u00a0hummus cups and you have yourself a nutritious snack packed with vitamins and minerals. \u00a0I like that hummus is versatile and does not have to be solely used as a dip. \u00a0It can also be used on a baked potatoes or roasted veggies instead of sour cream or sauces. You\u00a0can even try it as a sandwich spread alternative. \u00a0This hummus has 4 grams of protein, 3 grams of fiber and ONLY 1 gram of sugar.<\/p>\n Get them here: Canada<\/a>, USA<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n Made with 70% whole green pea, these non-GMO pea pods are baked and lightly salted. \u00a0They can be\u00a0enjoyed as part of a meal or as a snack. \u00a0One serving size is packed with 4 grams of protein, 3 grams of fibre and only 1 gram of sugar. \u00a0These peas are especially beneficial for picky eaters <\/a>who prefer something that’s crispy and easy to eat. \u00a0The closest in flavour\/texture to a chip without being a “chip”.<\/p>\n Get them here: Canada<\/a>, USA<\/a> (almond flour cookies)<\/strong><\/p>\n Get them here: Canada<\/a> (make your own!), USA<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n Air popped popcorn is so light and simple.\u00a0 The best brands have just 3 ingredients – unrefined oil, sea salt and GMO-free popcorn.\u00a0 Popcorn also boasts 2 grams of protein, 5 grams of fiber and less than 1 gram of sugar. \u00a0Knowing that corn is one of the most contaminated foods, you’ll want to make sure your popcorn is organic. And of course, choking is always something to be careful with for the young ones (4 and under).<\/p>\n I stumbled on this brand of gluten-free crackers in Costco and my girls love them for snacks on the go.\u00a0 In the\u00a0words of the company “Snack with confidence knowing that these delicious crackers are made with all non-GMO ingredients and are trans fat and cholesterol free”. \u00a0\u00a0Their nutritional profile isn’t so bad either with 2 grams each of protein and fibre, along with 1 gram of sugar. \u00a0I don’t love the use of corn and sunflower oils but it could be worse right?<\/p>\n The better cracker is Mary’s Gone Crackers<\/a> but kids can be hit and miss with this brand because of their seedy texture.\u00a0 My girls are just used to seeing them all time (and mommy enjoying them) that they make a regular appearance in their snack.<\/p>\n If I didn’t know better I would most likely mistake this guacamole as homemade. \u00a0It provides healthy fats with Haas avocado being the main ingredient, complimented\u00a0by tomato, onion, cilantro, salt and garlic. \u00a0This guacamole has 2 grams of fiber in just 2 tablespoons and is great paired with veggies, crackers or just straight up on a spoon.<\/p>\n We aren’t a big dairy-eating family but yogurt is one of my (and my girl’s) favourite snacks. \u00a0Topped with chia, shredded coconut, raspberries and some granola – yum. \u00a0The odd time I’ll grab some sheep or goat yogurt, but this coconut-based yogurt is in my fridge at all times. \u00a0This yogurt has\u00a0such a rich and creamy coconut base. \u00a0We like\u00a0the unsweetened variety which is delicious on its own or with some added fruit for added sweetness. \u00a0It\u00a0has an impressive 6 grams of fiber, 1 gram of protein and only 1 gram of sugar.<\/p>\n Of course, fresh fruit is wonderful and the best option, but dried fruit still offers a nutrient punch (it just lacks the hydration). \u00a0I particularly love dried unsulfured apricots. \u00a0Their dark amber colour isn’t as pleasing to the eye\u00a0as the bright peachy variety, but at least you’ll know they are free of preservatives. \u00a0 Nutritionally they\u00a0are rich in iron, copper, fiber, \u0003vitamins A and C. \u00a0The natural sugars are higher (15 grams) but they a high in\u00a0fiber (4 grams) and some protein too (1 gram). \u00a0Dried apricots\u00a0are great an energy boost\u00a0for\u00a0before and after physical activity.\u00a0 BUT they are heavy on the sugar, so be sure to pair with nuts, seeds or other protein (or fat) to stabilize blood sugars.<\/p>\n The company tells us we\u00a0will “fall in love at first bite”. \u00a0 They were right! \u00a0A bite-size snack made with the goodness of hemp hearts is great for an energy-boosting snack. \u00a0They carry\u00a010 grams of protein and 30% of the daily recommended intake of iron. \u00a0Although organic, these fall short on the healthiest packaged snack ladder due to the added sugar at 11 grams per serving. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n These baked bars are made with creamy sunflower seed butter. \u00a0There are no artificial ingredients and they are free of common allergens including wheat, dairy, eggs and gluten. \u00a0 Each bar contains 2 grams of protein, 2 grams of fibre and only 4 grams of sugar.<\/p>\n When I ask parents what their favourite on-the-go snack is for their little ones, I can almost guarantee to see this show up on the list. \u00a0 They come in the perfect bite size ball for small mouths and are allergen-free (hence perfect for taking to school). \u00a0 They\u2019re also slow to digest, keeping kids\u00a0fuller longer with\u00a01\u00a0gram of protein and 2 grams of fibre. \u00a0 There are 6 grams of sugar in the bars but it’s tough to tell how much of it is derived from the fruit ingredients versus the added\u00a0cane sugar.<\/p>\n I don’t know any kids that would refuse a bar, but it is usually a high sugar, processed granola bar that they opt for. \u00a0These bars have 1 gram of protein and 1 gram of fiber. \u00a0They are high in sugar with 10 grams of sugar, but the ingredients are much more appealing than a conventional granola bar – no artificial colours or flavours and no high fructose corn syrup. \u00a0If you don’t have time to make a\u00a0homemade bar then these are a good back-up.<\/p>\n Love Child just might be the brand I hear most about from parents. \u00a0Finally a clean packaged product that has some goodness to offer. \u00a0Your little one will love these\u00a0fruit and grain bars! They are a delicious all-natural gluten free snack made with no added sugars (not even fruit concentrate). \u00a0 Theses perfectly sized\u00a0bars come with 1 gram of protein and 2 grams of fiber. \u00a0They do have 9 grams of sugar but it’s all from natural sources. \u00a0So you can let them chow down on these every once in a while sans guilt.<\/p>\n<\/h3>\n
Introducing Healthy Packaged Snacks for Kids<\/h1>\n
But there are better options out there.\u00a0 I looked, I tried, and now I’m sharing!<\/h3>\n
\n
BEST Healthy Packaged Snacks for Kids<\/span><\/h2>\n
Seaweed Snacks <\/b><\/h3>\n
![\"SeaSnax](\"https:\/\/images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com\/images\/I\/91inbPuZzgL._SY679SX455_SY679_CR,0,0,455,679_PIbundle-16,TopRight,0,0_SX455_SY679_CR,0,0,455,679_SH20_.jpg\")
<\/p>\nRoasted Lentils<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Roasted Chickpeas <\/strong><\/h3>\n
![\"Healthy](\"http:\/\/www.daniellebinns.com\/stagingsite\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/IMG_0631.jpg\")
<\/p>\nMary’s Gone Crackers<\/strong><\/h3>\n
![\"Original](\"http:\/\/shop.marysgonecrackers.com\/img\/products\/mgc-000106.jpg\")
<\/p>\n<\/h3>\n
L\u00c4RABAR Original\u00a0Apple Pie<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n
\n![\"\"](\"http:\/\/www.daniellebinns.com\/stagingsite\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/07\/Lara-bar-300x137.jpg\")
<\/a><\/p>\nPumpkin Seed Butter <\/strong><\/a>(put on crackers, banana, bread, etc)<\/strong><\/h3>\n
![\"\"](\"http:\/\/www.daniellebinns.com\/stagingsite\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/07\/Pumpkin-Seed-butter.jpg\")
<\/p>\n\u00a0Kale Chips<\/strong><\/a><\/h3>\n
![\"Healthy](\"http:\/\/www.daniellebinns.com\/stagingsite\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/IMG_0812.jpg\")
<\/p>\nCoconut Strips\u00a0<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Made Good Cookies<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Hummus (pair with crackers, fruit, veg, whatever!)<\/strong><\/h3>\n
![\"\"](\"http:\/\/www.daniellebinns.com\/stagingsite\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/07\/008-FONTAINE-SANTE-Hummus-Traditionnel-Trempette_OADA_670x500-300x224.jpg\")
<\/p>\n<\/h2>\n
BETTER Healthy Packaged Snacks for Kids<\/span><\/h2>\n
Snap Peas\u00a0<\/strong><\/h3>\n
![](\"https:\/\/healthyeatingrocks.files.wordpress.com\/2013\/06\/snapea-crisps-lightlysalted.png\")
<\/p>\nGoGo Quinoa Cookies<\/strong><\/a><\/h3>\n
![\"\"](\"http:\/\/www.daniellebinns.com\/stagingsite\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/07\/Gogo-quinoa-cookie-150x300.png\")
I first discovered these vegan and gluten-free cookies at Costco, but you can now buy on Amazon<\/a> as well. \u00a0Since that moment, they’ve made an appearance in our cupboard a few times. \u00a0Why? \u00a0Well, they are the perfect size for small children (and someone like me who just needs a few nibbles). \u00a0Two cookies come with 2 grams of protein, 1 gram of fibre and 6 grams of sugar (higher than I would like but way better than any Oreo)! \u00a0 \u00a0What I could do without is the individual wrapping for each cookie, but I’m sure\u00a0it’s\u00a0beneficial for packing snacks and lunches to go.<\/p>\nGMO-Free Popcorn<\/strong><\/h3>\n
RW Garcia Artisan Crackers <\/a>\u00a0<\/strong><\/h3>\n
![](\"http:\/\/www.groceryheadquarters.com\/January-2015\/RW-Garcia-Introduces-New-Line-of-3-Seed-Gluten-Free-Crackers\/US_SweetPotCrack_3Dlrg-e1420650348102.jpg\")
<\/p>\nGarden Fresh Gourmet Guacamole<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n
![](\"http:\/\/www.thingsthatwedo.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/03\/garden-fresh-gourmet-gourmet-guacamole.jpg\")
<\/p>\nYoso Coconut Yogurt \u00a0<\/strong><\/a><\/h3>\n
![\"gnocchi\"](\"http:\/\/www.yoso.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/cultured-coconut.jpg\")
<\/p>\nGOOD Healthy Packaged Snacks for Kids<\/span><\/h2>\n
Elan Organic\u00a0Dried\u00a0Apricots<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n
![\"\"](\"http:\/\/www.daniellebinns.com\/stagingsite\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/07\/Elan-mango-221x300.jpg\")
<\/p>\nManitoba Harvest Hemp Heart Bites<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n
![\"\"](\"http:\/\/www.daniellebinns.com\/stagingsite\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/07\/Manitoba-harvest-hemp-bites-203x300.jpg\")
<\/p>\nEnjoy Life Sunseed Crunch Chewy Bars<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n
![](\"https:\/\/c1.q-assets.com\/images\/products\/p\/zqb\/zqb-18477_1z.jpg\")
<\/p>\nMade Good Granola Minis\u00a0<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n
![\"\"](\"http:\/\/www.daniellebinns.com\/stagingsite\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/07\/Made-good-granola-minis-300x300.jpg\")
<\/p>\nNature’s Bakery Raspberry Fig Bar<\/strong><\/a>
![](\"http:\/\/www.organicearthmarket.com\/images\/products\/56306.jpeg\")
<\/h3>\nLove Child Fruity Chomps<\/strong><\/a><\/h3>\n