In recent years, the way we eat has evolved significantly, and snacks have taken centre stage in the daily routine.  ⁽¹⁾

From small snacks in between meals to quicker options to satisfy hunger on the go, snacks have become indispensable for many. However, why do so many people turn to snacks for their daily routine? What does science say about this trend? And why has the demand for healthy snacks grown considerably? Let's see.

 The fast pace of everyday life can sometimes make it challenging to maintain a regular, structured diet. Long working hours, personal commitments and a lack of time to prepare full meals mean that many people turn to snacks as a practical, quick and convenient solution. 

 Snacks provide an easy way to maintain energy throughout the day, offer a quick and enjoyable break between tasks or simply satisfy unexpected hunger.

 Snacks also fulfil an important role in terms of satisfaction. They help control hunger, avoiding overeating at main meals, and are ideal for moments of socialising or for calming occasional cravings, such as the common desire we have for something sweet or salty.⁽²⁾

 Demand for healthy snacks

 In recent years, there has been a significant change in the mindset of consumers when it comes to health and well-being. 

 With increased awareness of the health impacts of processed and high-sugar foods, people have started to look for more balanced alternatives. This demand is based on several factors: ⁽¹⁾ The search for substitutes for unhealthy products; ⁽²⁾ The increased focus on health and well-being; ⁽³⁾ The desire to eat a healthy snack without losing flavour. ⁽¹⁾

Nowadays, the idea that eating a healthy snack means eating something without flavour is becoming less and less common, as you can find more and more options full of flavour and texture.

What are healthy snacks - The Oh!MySnacks perspective

But what makes a snack healthy according the science? In general, healthy snacks are those that offer a nutritional balance, being rich in nutrients such as protein, fibre, vitamins and minerals, while being low in added sugars, sodium and saturated fats. They should be made with quality ingredients, preferably natural, minimally processed and without artificial additives. ⁽³⁾

 In this sense, at Oh!MySnacks the snacks we offer are a balanced source of nutrients for your body and the portions are controlled to satiate your appetite, without exaggeration. We focus on snacks with a higher fibre content, no added white sugar, a source of protein and healthy fats. We also favour quality ingredients that are as natural as possible.

 But what really makes our snacks special? The fact that they are customised to your tastes, your goals and your lifestyle.

 Conclusion:

Science shows that it is indeed possible to combine taste and health in snack choices. Healthy snacks not only meet the demand for convenience in daily life but also promote well-being and nutrition. Thanks to advances in research, we now better understand how natural and balanced ingredients can satisfy cravings without compromising health. Choosing healthy options is therefore not just a trend but an informed, beneficial choice for both body and mind.

You don’t have to sacrifice pleasure for your well-being and health! Our team of dietitans is here to make your snacking moments nutritious, tasty, and personalised!

Our top healthy snacks for the month of September, according to our customers: 

1 - fruit balls blueberry

2 - vanilla sandwich cookies  with cocoa filling

3 - no sugar pie with blueberry

4 - salty fusion bbq addicted

5 - dried fruit with apple and cinnamon

 

Bibliography:

1. Innova Market Insights, Snacking with Benefits – Sweet Snacks – Global, May 2023.
2. Lee V. Introduction to the dietary management of obesity in adults. Clin Med (Lond). 2023 
3. Njike VY, Smith TM, Shuval O, Shuval K, Edshteyn I, Kalantari V, Yaroch AL. Snack Food, Satiety, and Weight. Adv Nutr. 2016

 

Author: 
Rita Lima (CP.3003N)