Snacks - Healthy Options & Recipes | Eat This, Not That! https://www.eatthis.com/tag/snacks/ Your ultimate source for expert nutrition tips and health advice, covering wellness, healthy recipes, cooking hacks, food news, style trends and shopping. Fri, 13 Mar 2026 21:27:22 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 https://www.eatthis.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2024/01/ETNT_favicon-1.png?strip=all&cf-bypass&w=32 Snacks - Healthy Options & Recipes | Eat This, Not That! https://www.eatthis.com/tag/snacks/ 32 32 195777497 5 Beloved American Snacks Banned in Europe https://www.eatthis.com/american-snacks-banned-europe/ Mon, 16 Mar 2026 15:00:49 +0000 https://www.eatthis.com/?p=906013 As American food companies work to remove chemical food dyes and other questionable additives from...

The post 5 Beloved American Snacks Banned in Europe appeared first on Eat This Not That.

]]>
As American food companies work to remove chemical food dyes and other questionable additives from their products, it will fall closer in line to the laws already in place in the EU, protecting customers from harmful additives. Many American products have either been banned or reformulated for the European market, and as of right now, certain popular U.S. snacks are still prohibited. Here are five American snacks not allowed in Europe due to food laws.

Lucky Charms

lucky charms

Lucky Charms are heavily restricted if not completely banned in parts of Europe due to containing artificial dyes Red 40, Yellow 5, and Yellow 6. Those dyes are used in the bright, colorful marshmallows so many people love about this cereal, but both Norway and Austria have specifically banned them, and with the FDA working on phasing out Red 40, Yellow 5, Yellow 6, Blue 1, and Blue 2 by the end of 2026, hopefully the U.S. won’t be far behind.

Skittles

skittles pack in wrapper

Skittles in Europe were reformulated to remove titanium dioxide, a colour additive and whitener that was banned in the European Union in 2022. Mars has finally removed titanium dioxide from Skittles in America after years of campaigning from health groups about the possible danger of this additive.

RELATED: 7 American Foods Banned in Other Countries

Little Debbie Swiss Rolls

Little Debbie Swiss Rolls

Little Debbie Swiss Rolls contain artificial dyes Yellow 5 and Red 40, so they’re banned in Norway and Austria. “Food dyes and some other additives are a public health concern. Even children and young adults without a mental health condition could become agitated after having food dye,” says Elizabeth W. Barnhardt, DO, MA via Ohio State Health.

Nestle’s Drumsticks

box of nestle drumstick ice cream cones

Nestle’s Drumstick frozen desserts are banned in Europe because they contain carrageenen, a seaweed-derived thickening agent. On a personal note, a major pet peeve is finding this additive in heavy cream—there is zero need for it and make sure you check the label even on organic products, because it’s in plenty of them.

Honey Bunches of Oats

post honey bunches oats honey roasted

Honey Bunches of Oats (and Rice Krispies) contain butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), a flavor enhancer banned in the EU and Japan. “BHT is not classified as a human carcinogen. However, evidence from the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists suggests that it is a human respiratory irritant,” says the EWG.

The post 5 Beloved American Snacks Banned in Europe appeared first on Eat This Not That.

]]>
906013
3 Best Frozen Spinach Artichoke Dips, According to Chefs https://www.eatthis.com/best-frozen-spinach-artichoke-dips/ Fri, 13 Mar 2026 10:45:19 +0000 https://www.eatthis.com/?p=905863 Spinach artichoke dip is always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a party, having a casual...

The post 3 Best Frozen Spinach Artichoke Dips, According to Chefs appeared first on Eat This Not That.

]]>
Spinach artichoke dip is always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a party, having a casual movie night, or just want to enjoy a creamy, comforting snack at home, a well-made spinach artichoke dip hits all the right notes—rich, cheesy, tangy, and satisfying. But making it from scratch can be time-consuming, requiring multiple cheeses, fresh spinach, marinated artichokes, and careful seasoning. That’s where frozen options come in: they save you prep time while still delivering the indulgent, savory flavors you love. Not all frozen dips are created equal, though. Some can be watery, bland, or heavy on filler, while others manage to retain the creamy texture, bold seasoning, and tender vegetable bites that make spinach artichoke dip so irresistible. To help you find the best, Eat This, Not That! asked Corrie Duffy, chef and food blogger at Corrie Cooks, to share the top three frozen spinach artichoke dips.

T.G.I. Friday’s Spinach & Artichoke Cheese Frozen Dip

T.G.I. Friday’s Spinach & Artichoke Cheese Frozen Dip is legendary. It’s cheesy, quick, and similar to restaurant spinach-artichoke dip. “This dip has loyal fans,” says Chef Corrie. “Some people say it tastes just like the restaurant version, creamy and cheesy with minimal effort.” He explains, “The key is watching it closely in the microwave. When done right, it’s a solid, convenient option for chip dipping.”

RELATED: 7 Chain Appetizers With More Calories Than a Full Meal

Birds Eye

Birds Eye is a popular brand because it’s simple, affordable, and widely available in grocery stores. The spinach & artichoke dip is a grocery-store classic that deserves a spot in your freezer. “For the price, it’s a dependable, crowd-pleasing option that won’t let you down on game day,” says Chef Corrie.

Trader Joe’s Frozen Creamy Spinach & Artichoke Dip

Trader Joe’s Frozen Creamy Spinach & Artichoke Dip is one of the most popular appetizers at Trader Joe’s and has even won customer choice awards for “Best Appetizer.” “This dip is legitimately a cult favorite,” says Chef Corrie. “Swiss and Parmesan cheeses are used for a tangy, balanced flavor that isn’t too garlicky or overpowering.” He shares, “People love it so much they’ve figured out a dozen ways to use it, from pasta sauce to grilled cheese spread.”

The post 3 Best Frozen Spinach Artichoke Dips, According to Chefs appeared first on Eat This Not That.

]]>
905863
7 Best Bagged Popcorn Brands, According to Shoppers https://www.eatthis.com/best-bagged-popcorn-brands-according-to-shoppers/ Tue, 17 Feb 2026 13:15:30 +0000 https://www.eatthis.com/?p=902114 Bagged popcorn is the perfect food to enjoy on movie night, for lunch snacks, road...

The post 7 Best Bagged Popcorn Brands, According to Shoppers appeared first on Eat This Not That.

]]>
Bagged popcorn is the perfect food to enjoy on movie night, for lunch snacks, road trips, and much more. These versatile items are one of the most popular choices shoppers make when it comes to snacks, with endless flavors and varieties to choose from depending on dietary preferences, texture and taste. If you’re looking for a new popcorn brand which is already popped and sold in convenient packages, here are seven of the best bagged popcorn brands, according to shoppers.

Prospector Popcorn

Prospector Popcorn sells sweet, savory, and spicy flavored popcorns that are so good you’ll have to hide them from the kiddos (I’m speaking from experience here). The  Chocolate Strawberry Gourmet Popcorn is a seasonal favorite shoppers can’t get enough of. “I gave a box of this popcorn to my dad for Christmas. He loved it so much that after he finished all of the popcorn, he asked me to order another box for him. All the flavors are delicious. We highly recommend this product,” one fan said.

RELATED: 7 Best Brand-Name Snacks for a Flatter Belly This New Year

LesserEvil Organic Popcorn Himalayan Gold

LesserEvil Organic Popcorn Himalayan Gold is a fan-favorite snack made with extra virgin coconut oil and Himalayan pink salt. “This popcorn is delicious!” one Target shopper said. “So happy to have found an organic snack that is low cal, has good flavor, and is relatively healthy. Trying to go organic and finding decent snacks at an affordable price isn’t easy, but we found a real winner with this popcorn.”

Smartfood White Cheddar Flavored Popcorn

Smartfood White Cheddar Flavored Popcorn is a big hit with shoppers who love the savory flavor. “You have to limit yourself to this size of the product in one sitting a day. It’s easy to find yourself eating the family-size all to yourself!” one fan said.

Skinnypop Gluten Free Original Popcorn

Skinnypop Gluten Free Original Popcorn is perfect for those who want a lower-carb snack. “Until recently, I didn’t eat popcorn a lot. Now, I am totally hooked!” one Walmart shopper raved. “This popcorn is so delicious, fresh and light! It isn’t greasy or salty, as others I have tried. It has also been on sale, so I am thankful for that! This is my new forever treat!”

Trader Joe’s White Cheddar Popcorn

Trader Joe’s White Cheddar Popcorn is flavored with a rich, creamy white Cheddar cheese blend. “I know a lot of people think it does/the it’s actually Smartfood (honestly I think it might be Erin’s white cheddar), but personally I like the TJ’s version a lot better than Smartfood,” one shopper said.

Khloud Sweet and Salty Kettle Corn

Khloud Sweet and Salty Kettle Corn blends bold flavor with 7g of complete protein in every serving. “SO GOOD!! Wish there was more in the bag but for the price & protein I think it’s fairly priced!” one Target shopper shared.

Angie’s Boomchickapop Sweet & Salty Kettle Corn

Shoppers are obsessed with the Angie’s Boomchickapop Sweet & Salty Kettle Corn. “Just the right amount of salty and sweet. We love this popcorn and keep it in stock in our pantry all the time!” one fan said.

The post 7 Best Bagged Popcorn Brands, According to Shoppers appeared first on Eat This Not That.

]]>
902114
4 Popular Snack Brands Cutting Prices Up to 15% in the U.S. Right Now https://www.eatthis.com/popular-snack-brands-cutting-prices-up-to-15-percent/ Fri, 13 Feb 2026 11:45:32 +0000 https://www.eatthis.com/?p=901457 Every time I visit the grocery store, it seems like everything is getting more expensive....

The post 4 Popular Snack Brands Cutting Prices Up to 15% in the U.S. Right Now appeared first on Eat This Not That.

]]>
Every time I visit the grocery store, it seems like everything is getting more expensive. Due to regular old inflation and tariff pressure over the past year, everything from staples like milk and eggs to snacks and frozen foods is more expensive than it was a few years ago. PepsiCo Foods, formerly Frito-Lay, is here to ease the pain of grocery store bills just a little bit. In an epic announcement, the food giant dropped some major news: it is cutting prices on some of its most popular snacks by up to 15 percent.

After customer feedback that snack prices had gotten too high, PepsiCo executives decided to lower them. And no, portion size, quality, or flavor isn’t being impacted as a result.

“We’ve spent the past year listening closely to consumers, and they’ve told us they’re feeling the strain,” Rachel Ferdinando, CEO of PepsiCo Foods U.S., said in a statement. “People shouldn’t have to choose between great taste and staying within their budget.”

RELATED: 30 High-Protein Snacks To Stay Full and Energized All Day

If you don’t see the price drop on the shelves of your local grocery store, blame the store. The company asserts that these are suggested price reductions set by the company, but final shelf prices are actually determined by the retailer.

The confirmed snacks receiving price cuts are Lay’s, Doritos, Cheetos, and Tostitos.

How are customers responding to the news? Instead of rejoicing, many aren’t buying into the price drops, throwing around terms like “shrinflation,” and insinuating the move is “too little, too late,” and likely to try and stir up more business as customers have abandoned the name brands for store brands or cut down snacking in general.

“I don’t think they are doing this out of the kindness of their hearts. They are feeling the strain. I buy store brand or nothing at all when it comes to these items. I guess they are finally feeling the strain after gouging us for the past few years,” one Redditor says. “Nope. And after the SNAP cuts they are losing A LOT of money so they were likely forced to do this. And yes like others have said shrinkflation will 100% take effect,” another agrees.

“Yeah sometimes when I’m going to grab a bag of chips, I see the $6.99 price tag and I just say no. Either I go with a store brand or just skip out for a cheaper snack. I rarely buy name brand snacks recently unless they are on sale,” a third says.

The post 4 Popular Snack Brands Cutting Prices Up to 15% in the U.S. Right Now appeared first on Eat This Not That.

]]>
901457
7 Pretzel Brands Shoppers Say Stay Crunchiest and Most Flavorful https://www.eatthis.com/pretzel-brands-crunchiest-most-flavorful/ Wed, 11 Feb 2026 13:45:00 +0000 https://www.eatthis.com/?p=901023 Over in the snack aisle, the pretzel section can be overwhelming. There are so many...

The post 7 Pretzel Brands Shoppers Say Stay Crunchiest and Most Flavorful appeared first on Eat This Not That.

]]>
Over in the snack aisle, the pretzel section can be overwhelming. There are so many bags, boxes, and plastic containers filled with hard pretzels in various shapes, sizes, and flavors. Not all of them are worth eating. In fact, some are plain boring. We did the research so you don’t have to. Here are 7 pretzel brands shoppers say stay crunchiest and most flavorful.

Snyder’s of Hanover Pretzels

Snyder's pretzels
Many consider Snyder’s of Hanover Pretzels the gold standard of bagged pretzels. “Snyders hard sourdough in the box are the best. And it’s not even close,” a Redditor declares. “Snyder sourdough nibbles are my fave,” another says. “Snyders rounds – I’m addicted!” a third says. “The consensus seems to say snyders pretzels are the only answer to pretzeling,” one declared.

Rold Gold Tiny Crisps Original

Rold Gold MIni Twists
Rold Gold Tiny Crisps Original have a classic crunch and are a great twisted pretzel. “Likes: Perfectly salted, bite sized and always fresh. Flavor is great. Dislikes: zero,” writes a Target shopper. “My favorite pretzel! These pretzels are my favorite. They actually taste like a pretzel and have a great crunch. Perfect snack for anytime,” adds another. “Hands down the best pretzels. They are crunchy, not too much bread inside, perfect balance,” a third says.

RELATED: I Tried Soft Pretzels at 5 Chain Restaurants and One Blew the Rest Away

Snack Factory Pretzel Crisps Original


If you are looking for a thin, crackly, savory crisp, especially for dipping into a spread, Snack Factory Pretzel Crisps Original are the top pick. “Perfectly crisp & the right amount of salt. Such a great snack, can be paired with many things like peanut butter or hummus,” a Target shopper says. “Flat pretzels are amazing. I have others but nothing compares to this brand. Thee best!” another says. “The best pretzels. Perfect amount of salt. I love stacking a slice of cheese on top of these. It’s the perfect snack,” says a third.

Herr’s

Herr's Sourdough Bite Size Pretzels
Lots of shoppers swear by any of the Herr’s options. “Herr’s sourdough nuggets.  That’s the end of the list.  Best all time imo. Not even really close,” one declares.

UTZ Thick & Crispy Pretzels

Utz Sourdough Hards Pretzels
UTZ Thick & Crispy Pretzels have a dense crunch and great taste. “Utz jumbo hard pretzels that come in the barrel r the best hard pretzels I’ve ever had,” one says. “Best pretzels. These always taste fresh and taste like what pretzels should. So many other brands do not taste good anymore,” a Target shopper agrees.

Dot’s Homestyle Pretzels

Dot's Homestyle Pretzels

Dot’s Homestyle Pretzels are seasoned, crunchy, and addictive, per shoppers. “These pretzels are so good! I resisted buying them for some time because I thought how much better than regular pretzels can they be? Now we can’t be without them in the house. My husband and I both love them. The spices are so tasty and there’s just a little hint if a kick of heat,” a Target shopper says. “Just here to say Dots are so f***ing good it’s criminal. That’s all,” one Redditor writes. “The Dotz Honey Mustard are like crack,” another said.

Uncle Jerry’s Pretzel

Uncle Jerry's Pretzel
Several people swear by Uncle Jerry’s Pretzels if you like a hard and crunchy pretzel. “Uncle Jerry’s Pretzels. My favorite. Get the 3lb bag!” one Redditor says. “I have had these. They are good, but be careful, you may break a tooth!” another jokes.

The post 7 Pretzel Brands Shoppers Say Stay Crunchiest and Most Flavorful appeared first on Eat This Not That.

]]>
901023
4 Daily Snacks That Shrink Belly Pooch Without Exercise After 60 https://www.eatthis.com/daily-snacks-shrink-belly-pooch-without-exercise-after-sixty/ Thu, 29 Jan 2026 12:30:07 +0000 https://www.eatthis.com/?p=898856 Snacking often gets a bed reputation when it comes to losing weight. Some people equate...

The post 4 Daily Snacks That Shrink Belly Pooch Without Exercise After 60 appeared first on Eat This Not That.

]]>
Snacking often gets a bed reputation when it comes to losing weight. Some people equate snacking with adding extra calories to your daily count. However, there is another way of looking at it. Snacking can also amp up your protein intake, while satiating cravings. As you age, selecting snacks to fuel your body can be tricky. We asked our go-to nutritionist, Tara Collingwood, MS, RDN, CSSD, LD/N, ACSM-CPT, a Board Certified Sports Dietitian and co-author of the Flat Belly Cookbook for Dummies for recommendations. Whether you like sweet or savory snacks, she has options that will keep your fueled up in between meals. Here are 4 daily snacks that shrink belly pooch without exercise after 60.

Greek Yogurt with Berries

bowl of Greek yogurt with berries

Greek Yogurt with Berries is the first snack on Collingwood’s list. “Protein becomes especially important as we age to help preserve muscle, and Greek yogurt delivers a solid protein boost in a small, easy-to-eat snack. Adding berries adds fiber, which helps keep hunger at bay longer. This combo supports muscle health, digestion, and steady energy,” she says.

RELATED: 12-Minute Standing Strength Routine That Recharges Your Metabolism After 50

Harvest Snaps with Hummus or Cottage Cheese

Calbee Harvest Snaps Green Pea Snacks

Harvest Snaps with Hummus or Cottage Cheese offers some salt and crunch but also protein. “Harvest Snaps Lightly Salted are made from real veggies, so they naturally provide 4g of fiber and 5g of satiating, whole food-sourced protein. Pairing them with hummus or cottage cheese adds even more protein.  The crunch satisfies cravings, while protein and fiber work together to promote fullness,” Collingwood says.

RELATED: 12-Minute Standing Strength Routine That Recharges Your Metabolism After 50

Apple Slices with Peanut or Almond Butter

Apple Slices with Peanut or Almond Butter is a delicious snack you can make at home. “Fiber from fruit plus protein and fat from nut butter is a classic combination that works especially well after 50, when blood sugar stability and satiety really matter,” Collingwood explains. “This snack is portable, satisfying, and easy to adjust for appetite.”

Smoothie with Protein and Fiber

vegan chocolate protein smoothie

You can never go wrong with a smoothie packed with protein and fiber to fuel you up for the day. “A small smoothie with protein powder, berries, and chia or flax offers both protein and fiber in a convenient form. You can customize the type of protein you prefer and drink it at your desk or on the go,” says Collingwood.

The post 4 Daily Snacks That Shrink Belly Pooch Without Exercise After 60 appeared first on Eat This Not That.

]]>
898856
5 Bedtime Snacks That Support Fat Loss & Metabolism After 55 https://www.eatthis.com/bedtime-snacks-support-fat-loss-metabolism-after-fifty-five/ Wed, 28 Jan 2026 13:15:09 +0000 https://www.eatthis.com/?p=898840 You don’t have to feel guilty about snacking before bedtime…if you make the right choice....

The post 5 Bedtime Snacks That Support Fat Loss & Metabolism After 55 appeared first on Eat This Not That.

]]>
You don’t have to feel guilty about snacking before bedtime…if you make the right choice. “After 55, muscle loss and blood sugar fluctuations can make weight management harder. A protein and fiber-rich bedtime snack supports muscle maintenance, better sleep, and appetite control, all of which contribute to fat loss over time,” Tara Collingwood, MS, RDN, CSSD, LD/N, ACSM-CPT, a Board Certified Sports Dietitian and co-author of the Flat Belly Cookbook for Dummies, tells us.” No food literally burns fat overnight, but the right bedtime snacks can support muscle, metabolism, blood sugar control, and sleep, which influence fat loss.” Here are 5 bedtime snacks that support fat loss and metabolism after 55.

Greek Yogurt with Chia or Flax Seeds

Greek Yogurt with Chia or Flax Seeds is the first bedtime snack that Collingwood recommends. “Greek yogurt provides protein that supports muscle maintenance overnight, which is important because muscle plays a key role in metabolism as we age. Adding chia or flax brings fiber, which helps stabilize blood sugar while you sleep. This combo supports satiety and prevents late-night hunger,” she says.

RELATED: 12-Minute Standing Strength Routine That Recharges Your Metabolism After 50

Cottage Cheese with Berries

Cottage Cheese with Berries is her second pick. “Cottage cheese is rich in slow-digesting protein, which can support overnight muscle repair. That matters later in life, when preserving lean mass helps support fat loss over time. Berries add fiber and antioxidants without excess sugar,” says Collingwood.

A Small Protein Smoothie

scoop of protein powder next to a strawberry smoothie with whole strawberries

Another option? A Small Protein Smoothie. “A light smoothie with protein powder, milk or soy milk, and fiber-rich ingredients can support muscle recovery overnight without feeling heavy before bed. This works well for people who don’t want to chew late at night,” she says.

Apple Slices with Nut Butter

Apple Slices with nut butter are another great snack before bed. “Fiber from fruit paired with protein and healthy fats helps prevent nighttime blood sugar dips that can disrupt sleep and lead to next-day cravings. Sleep quality and blood sugar stability are key to weight management,” Collingwood states.

Handful of Nuts with a Protein Source

hands pouring jar of nuts and dried fruit

Handful of Nuts with a Protein Source is another solid choice for a pre-bedtime snack. “Nuts provide healthy fats and some fiber, but pairing them with a protein source like yogurt or milk helps keep the snack balanced and more filling.  Portion control matters here, small but satisfying,” says Collingwood.

 

The post 5 Bedtime Snacks That Support Fat Loss & Metabolism After 55 appeared first on Eat This Not That.

]]>
898840
6 Best New Snacks Hitting Grocery Shelves in 2026 https://www.eatthis.com/best-new-snack-releases-hitting-grocery-stores/ Mon, 15 Dec 2025 15:00:09 +0000 https://www.eatthis.com/?p=892848 Who doesn’t love a good snack? When you are having a craving, but are not...

The post 6 Best New Snacks Hitting Grocery Shelves in 2026 appeared first on Eat This Not That.

]]>
Who doesn’t love a good snack? When you are having a craving, but are not looking to eat an entire meal, there is nothing better than grabbing a handful of a treat, whether soft and sweet or savory and crunchy. It is extra fun to try new snacks, which is why all your favorite brands are always adding new items to the roster. What is about to hit stores in the next few weeks to months? “2026’s snack releases are set to be quite stellar and @teamsupernovafb and I have a great list for y’all,” Snach with Zach revealed in an Instagram post. Here are the 6 best new snack releases hitting grocery stores.

New Baked Lay’s Flavors

“In January, we’ll see new flavors from Lay’s,” he writes in the post. This includes Lay’s Baked Garlic and Herb and Loaded Baked Potato. Snackers are excited to try the lower-calorie chips. “Excited for the baked lays lmao,” writes one.

Zero Sugar Oreo and Zero Sugar Double Stuf Oreo

Those who maintain sugar-free diets will appreciate the new Oreo cookies about to hit stores. According to multiple sources, Zero Sugar Oreo and Zero Sugar Double Stuf Oreo will arrive in January.

RELATED: A Hidden Ingredient in Popular Snacks Is Getting New Scrutiny

Dr Pepper Snack Packs

Next up, an unexpected pudding-style treat. Dr Pepper Snack Packs Juicy Gels, 90 calories each, will be available in stores soon.  “Release date unknown but launch is speculated for late winter early spring,” he says. “Why is nobody talking about the Dr Pepper pudding 🤢🤢🤢,” one follower commented. “I’m lowkey tempted tbh 😭😭,” another added.

New Goldfish Flavors

There are three new options from Goldfish: Zesty Ranch, Hot Buffalo, and Honey Mustard pretzels. These will hit stores in January.

Cheetos Flamin Hot Dill Pickle Flavor Puffs

If you liked Cheetos Flamin Hot Dill Pickle Flavor, get excited for the puffs version: Cheetos Flamin Hot Dill Pickle Flavor Puffs. “FLAMIN HOT DILL PICKLE PUFFS IS A DREAM COME TRUE 🔥🥒💚,” writes a follower.

Funyuns

What happens when onion-flavored chips join forces with a Ramen brand? Funyuns Maruchan Hot & Spicy Chicken Ramen. “Returning to stores in January, expected to run for all 2026,” he says. “I loved them! They were perfectly seasoned and not super salty,” writes a fan. “The funyuns already out, seen them at the gas station,” another adds.

The post 6 Best New Snacks Hitting Grocery Shelves in 2026 appeared first on Eat This Not That.

]]>
892848
A Hidden Ingredient in Popular Snacks Is Getting New Scrutiny https://www.eatthis.com/hidden-ingredient-in-popular-snacks-under-new-scrutiny/ Thu, 04 Dec 2025 13:45:14 +0000 https://www.eatthis.com/?p=891351 California just became the first state in the country to ban ultraprocessed ingredients from school...

The post A Hidden Ingredient in Popular Snacks Is Getting New Scrutiny appeared first on Eat This Not That.

]]>
California just became the first state in the country to ban ultraprocessed ingredients from school meals, shining a new spotlight on the harmful additives in everyday food, drinks, and snacks that are linked to a myriad of concerning health issues and illnesses.

Sugar-packed drinks and ultraprocessed meats are some of the worst offenders, according to Tasha Stoiber, senior scientist at the Environmental Work Group, which sponsored the legislation, according to Cal Matters. “Ultraprocessed foods are also marketed heavily to kids with bright colors, artificial flavors, hyperpalatability,” Stoiber said. “The hallmarks of ultraprocessed foods are a way to sell and market more product.”

As a result, these foods will be phased out of all K-12 school meals over the next 10 years, changing the way the state provides nearly 1 billion meals to students every year. Many of the big brands are already removing artificial colors from their products, and now the spotlight is on lab-made artificial flavorings, created to encourage overconsumption.

Doritos Cheetos NKD

PepsiCo just announced that its Cheetos and Doritos brands will be offering products free of artificial flavors and colorings, calling the line Simply NKD.

“No color, no artificial flavors, same intensity — that’s Simply NKD. Doritos and Cheetos are pioneering a snacking revolution, or a renaissance, if you will,” PepsiCo chief marketing officer Hernán Tantardini said in a statement. “We are reinventing our iconic — and most famous — brands to deliver options with the bold flavors fans know and love, now reimagined without any colors or artificial flavors.”

Doritos Cheetos NKD

U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and other federal regulators are very focused on the food dye issue, and brands are hastening efforts to remove those ingredients before the end of 2026.

“Overall, thousands of flavor chemicals are being added to foods without FDA oversight or review of the available safety information or the concentration used. The food additive review system is broken,” says David Andrews, Senior Scientist at the EWG. “We at EWG believe food companies should make full disclosure of their ingredients and should not use vague terms like ‘flavors’ or ‘fragrances.’ People have a right to know what is in their food. We believe processed food makers should not manipulate flavors to whet people’s appetites for unhealthy foods nor encourage people to overeat.”

The American Academy of Pediatrics has warned about the impact of additives on child health as far back as 2018, so it’s high time those warnings were actually acted upon. “Our first priority is to protect kids in California schools, but we also came to realize that there is huge market power here,” said Assemblymember Jesse Gabriel, an Encino Democrat. “This bill could have impacts far beyond the classroom and far beyond the borders of our state.”

The post A Hidden Ingredient in Popular Snacks Is Getting New Scrutiny appeared first on Eat This Not That.

]]>
891351
7 Trader Joe’s Holiday Snacks and Treats Shoppers Are Raving About https://www.eatthis.com/trader-joes-holiday-snacks-shoppers-raving/ Mon, 17 Nov 2025 11:15:44 +0000 https://www.eatthis.com/?p=888390 Trader Joe’s seasonal holiday selection is something to look forward to all year—not only does...

The post 7 Trader Joe’s Holiday Snacks and Treats Shoppers Are Raving About appeared first on Eat This Not That.

]]>
Trader Joe’s seasonal holiday selection is something to look forward to all year—not only does the store bring back old favorites but there’s always something new and exciting hitting shelves during the festive months. Right now the store has some treats and snacks so delicious customers are going out of their way to find them and stock up. Here are seven Trader Joe’s holiday snacks shoppers are obsessed with right now.

French Galettes Butter Cookies

The Trader Joe’s French Galettes Butter Cookies ($3.49) are so good they’re dangerous, customers say. “They’re so good 😭 I’ve been alternating topping them with a schmear of pistachio cream, lemon curd, and goat cheese with a drizzle of hot honey as an occasional sanity treat but I literally have to hide them from myself so I forget about them for a few days,” one shopper said.

Vanilla Non-Dairy Frozen Dessert

Trader Joe's Vanilla Non-Dairy Frozen Dessert

Trader Joe’s Vanilla Non-Dairy Frozen Dessert ($4.29) is made with coconut and fans love it. “THIS IS SO GOOD. It’s creamy and there’s no coconut flavor, just vanilla. I ate some with the Valencia peanut butter and it was exquisite,” one shopper said.

RELATED: I Tried 11 Trader Joe’s Frozen Meals & the Best Was a Hearty, Family Favorite

Sleigh Ride Cookies

The Sleigh Ride Cookies ($3.99) are a must-have seasonal treat from Trader Joe’s. “Oh man. Just tried these and came looking for a thread. These cookies are amazing. I’m going to get in so much trouble while these are in stock,” one Redditor said.

Clotted Cream Fudge

Clotted Cream Fudge ($2.99) is a limited time only seasonal treat shoppers love. “The clotted cream fudge is so good! It’s very sweet so you just need a couple pieces… it tastes like the maple one but more of a caramel flavor 👏,” said the TraderJoesObsessed Instagram account.

Cocoa Truffles with Maple Sugar

Trader Joe’s Cocoa Truffles with Maple Sugar ($4.49) are outrageously good, shoppers say. “They are SO GOOD the maple flavor sneaks up on you. There are lightly crunchy maple sugar crystals in them that melt on your tongue and leave the most delicious aftertaste,” one raved. “These are the best sweet item I’ve ever tried here. They have a perfect chocolate maple balance.”

Mini Cinnamon Sugar Cookies

Trader Joe’s shoppers are raving about the new Mini Cinnamon Sugar Cookies ($0.99). “I loved these. The right amount of sweetness and spice. I love how light and crunchy they were too,” one said.

Trader Joe’s This Pumpkin Walks Into A Bar… Cereal Bars

Trader Joe’s This Pumpkin Walks Into A Bar… Cereal Bars ($2.49) are a seasonal item shoppers love. “Obsessed with the pumpkin cereal bar and they’re even better cold 🎃😋,” one said. “Had one of these in my lunch box which I refrigerated at work and it was SO perfect.”

The post 7 Trader Joe’s Holiday Snacks and Treats Shoppers Are Raving About appeared first on Eat This Not That.

]]>
888390