CA

California Snacks and Snack Food Stats

There are thousands of snack food products made in California. Snacks may one day take over and replace the traditional meal, in fact. The trend for growth in snacks is strong, as consumers with less money to spend continue to spend more of what they have on snacks. For those who want to use the snack as a source of nutrition and health, below are several snack tips, plus some snack stats.

SNACK STATS

• Nearly 50% of Americans snack at least two times a day, almost double those who snacked in 2010.
• More cupcake, ice cream and cookie shops make snacking easier but less healthy.
• Women are most likely to make unhealthy choices late at night—more than three times a week on average!
• Americans snack most often during the mid-morning and mid-afternoon as a result of the dreaded energy drain.
• U.S. retail sales of packaged snacks generate nearly $64 billion in a single year.
• Going long stretches between meals without snacking can cause blood sugar to drop, setting off cravings and causing you to overindulge later. The biggest cause of overeating is undereating.

SNACK TIPS: The perfect snack should be packed with nutrition but fewer than 200 calories

• Plan well-portioned, healthy snacks ahead of time.
• Stash snacks within reach so you don't break the calorie bank.
• Carry a snack pack with you (in purse, car, gym bag, etc.)
• Nonperishable snacks with substance like instant oatmeal, almonds, pretzels or dried fruit can be pepped up with cheese, yogurt, apples and grapes.
• Pick energy bars wisely--look for a minimum of 3-5 grams of fiber, 5-10 grams of protein, and maximum of 20 grams of sugar. Avoid high fat & saturated fat content.
• A handful of almonds (1 ounce or 23 almonds) contains 160 calories, 3.5 grams of fiber and 6 grams of protein. Almonds, walnuts, pecans, peanuts, and cashews contain healthy monounsaturated fats that lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease. They won't raise blood sugar as much as crackers or pretzels do.
• On the road, opt for pre-packaged vegetables and dip, edamame, fruit and cheese combos, baked snacks or nutty trail mixes, rather than heavily processed rolls, breads, chicken nuggets, burgers and shakes.
• Snack bars that use whole, unprocessed ingredients are perfect for stashing in your carry-on baggage.
• Bottled vegetable juices contain nutrients and fiber in a pinch--just be careful about added sugar.