Our round-up of better-for-you snacks that don’t compromise on taste.

We’re sure snacking never used to cause this much stress.

But, in our increasingly health-conscious world, it can be hard to find snacks that strike the perfect balance between tasting great and not being all that bad for you.

The good news is that, with the HFSS legislation that’s now in place, the healthier options are easier to spot in supermarkets. And, not only that, but more and more brands are focused on creating and reformulating their snacks to make them HFSS-compliant.

Still need a hand picking the best? You’re in luck!

We’ve asked around the office and rounded up the five products our consumer geeks love best, so you’ll know what to go for on your next lunch break.

What is UK HFSS legislation?

Before we dive into our favourite HFSS-compliant snacks, let’s take a moment to define just what that means.

According to current legislation, HFSS food and drink products are those that are high in fat, salt or sugar. And, as of 2022, supermarkets and all other UK shops are prohibited from placing HFSS foods in key locations in-store, including store entrances and aisle ends.

The idea is that this will make us less likely to opt for unhealthy options. But what should we go for instead?

The 5 best HFSS-compliant snacks

Okay, that’s enough preamble; let’s get to the good bit.

Without further ado, here are five of the tastiest snacks that are on the market right now and completely compliant with HFSS legislation.

1.      Propercorn Sweet & Salty

When it comes to lighter snacking, popcorn is a go-to for good reason. Naturally lower in calories and high in fibre, not to mention gluten free and vegan, popcorn is also highly satiating, which means it won’t leave you feeling hungry.

But no one wants plain, flavourless popcorn. Enter Propercorn’s delicious product range! With a selection of classics alongside some more adventurous flavours like sweet cinnamon and caramelised biscuit, it can be hard to pick a favourite.

If you’re not sure which to try first, we’d suggest giving the sweet and salty Propercorn a go. It’s ideal for sweet tooths and more savoury snackers alike!

2.      graze Salt & Pepper Protein Nut Crunch

Looking for a snack with more of a punch? Then might we suggest graze’s protein-rich range. Their Sea Salt & Pepper Protein Nut Crunch packs in particular are completely moreish.

Comprised of edamame beans, cashews, coated peas and broad beans, all flavoured to perfection, you can buy this product in 100g pouches which are perfect for dipping into throughout the week.

You might have already gathered that graze is a brand committed to ‘rewriting the snacking rulebook’. That’s why they pride themselves (quite rightly) on offering a wide range of products that contain zero artificial colours or flavourings.

Browse their products in supermarkets, or order subscription snack boxes straight to your door.

3.      Light & Free So Sticky Toffee

Are you the sort of person who fancies something sweet after a meal? Then we’d recommend Light & Free’s sticky toffee-flavoured Greek-style yoghurt.

It ticks all the right boxes: no fat, no added sugar, no artificial flavours, no preservatives, but still full of flavour. And it’s versatile too! It’s great with granola for breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or a lighter dessert after dinner.

There are other flavours available, if sticky toffee isn’t your thing. Whether you opt for classic strawberry, cherry Bakewell, or protein-rich banana and peanut butter, you can rest assured you’ll enjoy a full flavour, without the typical fat content.

4.      Eat Real Sour Cream & Chive Hummus Chips

There’s something for the crisp-lovers too. A healthier alternative to classic potato crisps, Eat Real has created satisfyingly crunchy chips from the humble chickpea. The result? A crisp alternative that’s significantly lower in fat and calories, and naturally vegan and gluten-free.

Their Hummus Chips come in Tomato & Basil, Chilli & Lemon, and Sea Salt flavours. However, we happen to think that the Sour Cream & Chive chips are some of the tastiest in the bunch.

Give them a try and, if you like what you taste, Eat Real also offers a range of Quinoa Chips and Lentil Chips.

5.      Vimto Zero Fruit Drops

Finding sweets that comply with HFSS legislation can be particularly tricky. Thankfully, Vimto has the solution.

Last year, in partnership with World of Sweets, the iconic drinks brand developed HFSS-compliant Vimto Zero Fruit Drops. And there’s no need to worry – despite there being zero added sugar, the drops are still 100% Vimto flavoured. Not to mention a natural source of vitamin C and made using real fruit juice…

Meeting market challenges

With so many fantastic products on supermarket shelves right now, it’s little wonder that demand for consumer product talent with specialised NPD, marketing, and national account experience has shot up.

Are you trying to tap into the health-conscious grocery market?

Get in touch today – we’ll help you build the teams you need to stand out in this competitive space:

Call us: 0333 772 7200

Email: workwithus@advocate-group.co.uk

(Image credit: iStock, Tesco, Ocado, Light & Free, Hancocks)