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Kids seem constantly hungry, and while it’s important to make sure they get enough to eat, you don’t want to feed them junk food. But that makes things complicated, because you also don’t always have the time (or energy!) to make nutritious snacks from scratch. That’s where we come in.
In this article, we’re giving you a quick rundown of tasty and healthy snacks that your kids can grab and go.
The benefits of giving your kids healthy snacks
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Why do kids seem hungry all the time? Well, their smaller stomachs mean they can’t eat large meals like adults, so they need a constant top-up. Children also require regular fuel to support their growth.
The right snacks support brain function, keep their energy levels stable, and deliver essential nutrients like fibre, protein, healthy fats, and vitamins. Healthy foods also prevent sugar spikes, which reduces hyperactivity followed by a sudden sugar crash (cue crying from instant tiredness and hunger).
Best healthy snacks to feed your kids
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There are a multitude of healthy snacks that taste delicious. Sometimes it’s about finding the right ones that your kids enjoy the most.
1. Almonds and raisins
Almonds and raisins mixed together are sweet and crunchy. The fats in almonds help brain development, while raisins add a touch of iron for energy levels. Our Almond and Jumbo Raisin Mix is easy to portion into snack bags and perfect for lunchboxes or car rides.
2. Pumpkin seeds
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Pumpkin seeds are great for little ones who like small foods to pick at. They’re rich in magnesium to help with muscle function and relaxation. The stripey seeds are also packed with zinc for healthy immunity. You can add a sprinkle of sea salt and black pepper for extra flavour.
3. Dried apricots
Apricots are a soft, sweet fruit full of fibre and iron, which is essential for transporting oxygen in the blood, which is key for busy school and play schedules. They’re also a great alternative to sweets and won’t cause a sugar crash.
Read more: 10 things you should know about Apricots.
4. Vegetable crisps
Our vegetable crisps are made from real vegetables and contain the fibre and nutrients regular crisps lack to keep kids fuller for longer. Try our Salted Lentil Chips, Sour Cream Chive Quinoa Chips, Veggie Straws, and more.
5. Coated nuts
Sweet or savoury-coated nuts are a tasty compromise between health and treat. They provide long-lasting energy and protein for active kids and are often more appealing to children who might not like plain nuts. We have Dark Chocolate Brazils, Tiramisu Flavour Coated Almonds, Roasted Salted Cashews, and others.
6. Organic coconut flakes
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High in fibre and naturally sweet, Coconut Flakes support digestion and offer a satisfying crunch that’s free from added sugar. They’re a fun texture for kids and easy to add to trail mixes or on top of yoghurt.
7. Trail mixes
Trail mixes containing things like walnuts and peanuts are rich in plant-based protein and essential fatty acids - great for growth and development. They’re quick to toss into a lunchbox or keep in your bag for snack emergencies.
8. Seaveg Crispies
We’ll admit that Seaveg Crispies aren’t for everyone, but they’re a massive hit for kids who like them! They’re packed with iodine, which supports thyroid function and brain health and have a salty taste, making them a healthy alternative to crisps.
9. Dried fig slices
Freeze-dried Fig Slices are naturally sweet and high in dietary fibre, promoting good digestion and a chewy alternative to sugary sweets. They’re a great source of calcium, and the soft texture is ideal for younger children.
10. Mixed nuts
Mix Nuts like walnuts, almonds, cashews, and peanuts deliver a range of healthy fats, minerals, and energy to keep kids going between meals. They’re a fantastic source of protein and perfect for older kids who need more fuel.
11. Dark chocolate squares
Good-quality dark chocolate offers antioxidants and is less sugary than milk chocolate. A little piece satisfies sweet cravings with less risk of a sugar crash. Bear in mind that the higher the percentage of cocoa, the stronger the taste. So choose what you think your kids will enjoy the most, like our 60% Dark Chocolate Bar With Raspberries.
12. Crispbreads
Wholegrain crispbreads are full of fibre and ideal for pairing with protein-rich toppings like nut butter or soft cheese to keep hunger at bay. They’re also easy to break into small portions for little hands.
13. Veggie cakes
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Veggie cakes, such as our Beetroot And Balsamic Veggie Cakes or Spinach And Pesto Veggie Cakes, contain lentils and peas, making them high in fibre. It’s a great way to sneak in some wholegrains without the complaints.
14. Fruit and nut snack bags
Blending Dried Fuits and Nuts allows you to make a custom snack mix for picky eaters. Prepare portion sizes by popping them into separate bags or tubs so you can grab and go
15. Dried banana chips
Sweet and crunchy, Banana Chips contain potassium and carbohydrates for quick fuel before sports or playtime. They also provide a natural sweetness that curbs sugar cravings.
16. Flapjack bars
Flapjack Bars are made with oats and fruit for long-lasting energy and fibre to maintain blood sugar balance.
Read more: Fruity Flax Flapjack.
17. Popcorn
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That’s right! Popcorn can make a light and healthy snack as long as it’s not coated in salt or sugar. The Marigold B12 Popcorn Plus is incredible for grabbing from the cupboard to feed hungry tummies and is also high in vitamin D. If you want to make a lot of popcorn in one go, stock up on Popping Corn, which you can keep plain or add your own flavours that kids love.
18. Prunes
Prunes aren’t an obvious choice for a healthy snack, but they can be popular among kids for a fibrous sweet treat. Their natural sorbitol content makes them excellent for digestion and regular bowel movements.
Read more: Is Dried Fruit Good For You?
19. Apple rings
Apple Rings are chewy and sweet with vitamin C and fibre. They’re an ideal option for snack time or school lunches and go well with a handful of nuts for extra energy.
20. Freeze-dried strawberries
Freeze-Dried Strawberry Slices have all the flavour and nutrients of the fresh berry in crunchy form. They’re high in vitamin C and make a perfect topping for yoghurt.
Read more: 10 Simple Ways To Use Freeze Dried Fruit.
Grab everything you need from Grape Tree
Healthy snacks don’t need to be fancy. In fact, the simpler the better - especially when you’re dealing with fussy eaters, tight schedules, or snack time just five minutes before dinner. Explore our online shop or visit us in store for a multitude of great-value, organic foods for you and the kids.