Chips & Crackers
Popchips
These innovative chips are made by applying heat and pressure rather then baking or frying, which results in a healthier, but still flavorful chip. PopChips, $30 for 36 single-serve bags, PopChips, Amazon.
What the kids said: The kids loved this tasty, crispy chip alternative (okay, so did we). The crunchy but not greasy Barbeque flavor had a mild spicy taste and was just sweet enough. "They're even better than regular chips," Jasmine, 10, added.
The verdict: Taste, 5; Excitement, 5
Salba Smart 100-Calorie Bite-Size Tortilla Chips
Adding Salba, the omega-3-rich super grain, ups the nutritional value of the classic tortilla chip. 100-Calorie Bite Size Tortilla Chips, Salba Smart, Amazon.
What the kids said: The one thing lacking from this chip alternative? "Salsa!" according to the kids. "I like them a little better than some of the other ones because they are really crunchy," said Ronald, 11. Lilian, 10, was less enthused. "Eh, they are just okay," she said.
The verdict: Taste, 3; Excitement, 2
Healthy Handfuls Cheddar Cheese Lucky Duckies
Free of trans fats, hydrogenated oil, preservatives, and corn syrup, this cheesy cracker is certified organic and (for you Californians) is compliant with the Pupil Nutrition, Health, and Achievement Act of 2001. Cheddar Cheese Lucky Duckies, $2, Organic Healthy Handfuls.
What the kids said: "I think this is a delicious snack, and, yes, I'd like to have it again," wrote Stephanie, 9. My-Nqor, 10 1/2, said she liked them better than Goldfish crackers, "They have a better crunch."
The verdict: Taste, 4.5; Excitement, 4
Annie's Cheddar Bunnies
The Napa-based company offers bunny-shaped crackers with real cheddar cheese. Cheddar Bunnies, $4 for 6, Annie's.
What the kids said:: "They're almost the same as the Ducky crackers," said My-Nqor, "But they have way more cheese. I think too much cheese." But Michael, 10, disagreed, "I think they are much better than other cheesy crackers. It's like its real cheese."
The verdict: Taste, 3; Excitement, 4
What the nutritionist said: The Salba Smart Tortilla Chips ranked first out of the four for nutritionist Kathleen Schoen. "I like these because they are similar to PopChip, and they contain Salba, providing 280mg per serving of essential fats, which can be challenging for kids to get. Plus, Salba Smart is calorie portioned, has few ingredients, and is the lowest in sodium." The PopChips came in a close second with its few ingredients and fiber content. Schoen says that a great alternative to these would also be air-popped popcorn, which contains fiber and usually just has a bit of added salt for flavor.
Next Page: Yogurt Tubes & String Cheese
