Buying snacks online may seem straightforward, but attractive packaging does not always tell the whole story. Looking for crisps for a party, cocktail nuts for a Friday evening or sweet snacks for the journey? Then portion size, ingredients and allergens are more important than eye-catching marketing copy.
With this practical selection guide, you can compare savoury snacks, sweet snacks, popcorn, crackers, sweets and nut mixes in a clear and sensible way.
A multipack or family box can be convenient, but check the total weight and number of portions. A box containing lots of small bags offers convenience and variety, while one large bag often uses less packaging material. So compare the price per 100 grams whenever this information is available.
With a multipack of crisps, the contents of each bag are also important. Small portions are practical for a party or lunchbox, but less suitable if you want to fill one large bowl.
Words such as “mild”, “natural” or “intense” mainly describe how a product is positioned. Check the ingredients list and nutritional information to see what you are actually buying. Pay attention to oil, salt, sugar, flavour enhancers and colourings, for example.
According to information provided by the brands themselves, products may have certain characteristics, such as “without artificial colourings” or “without artificial additives”. Treat such claims as product information from the brand and always check the label on the packaging.
A snack mix may contain peanuts, nuts, milk, soya, wheat or sesame. A product may also contain traces of other allergens. Therefore, check the current packaging before buying, particularly for cocktail nuts, Japanese mix, crackers and sweets.
Also watch out for contradictory or incomplete information online. The packaging takes precedence for ingredients, allergens, best-before information and storage instructions.
Choose a format that suits how you plan to use it:
For party snacks, a combination often works better than one large pack: for example, crisps, cocktail nuts, popcorn and a sweet option.
A good selection takes different preferences into account. Combine plain and paprika crisps with a more distinctive flavour such as chilli and lime, for example. Add a snack mix or nut mix for extra texture, and choose crackers as a neutral base for dips or toppings.
The description is important for spicy products. TAKIS Fuego is described in the product information as extra spicy, with a chilli and lime flavour. This makes it a targeted choice for fans of bold flavours, but it may be less suitable for a mixed group.
Check the following for each product:
A product containing less of one particular nutrient is not automatically suitable for everyone. Use the information to make an informed comparison, not as a medical assessment.
Why it suits this profile: The box contains six small bags in three flavours: paprika, bolognese and plain. This gives you variety without having to order several separate products.
The number of bags and flavours are clearly stated, so a large box does not turn out to contain unexpectedly few portions.
Six portion packs, three flavour varieties and a weight of 180 grams.
Why it suits this profile: The 300-gram pack is intended for sharing with drinks or serving as part of a cheese board.
The contents and ingredients are described clearly. However, check the allergens: the product contains, among other things, peanuts, wheat, milk and celery.
Large 300-gram sharing pack and mild seasoning according to the product description.
Why it suits this profile: This roasted corn snack is intended for fans of a distinctive chilli and lime flavour and a satisfying crunch.
The product information clearly states how spicy it is. That way, you will not end up buying a plain snack when you are looking for a bold flavour.
100 grams, crunchy corn crisps and a chilli and lime flavour profile. Contains soya; check the label if you have allergies.
Why it suits this profile: Ten small portion packs containing sweets laces and sour strips are easy to hand out at a party or family gathering.
The contents are divided between ten bags. This prevents one large bag from being left open and makes distribution straightforward.
Ten portions, 215 grams in total and several fruity and sour flavours.
We have put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.
Putting together a varied table does not have to be complicated. Combine, for example:
Products such as Lay's Cheetos Doritos Mega Box Multipack Chips 20 Pack contain, according to the product description, twenty small packs including paprika, plain and cheese flavours. This type of box suits groups who want to try several flavours. For products containing milk, soya, wheat or other allergens, always check the current packaging.
Choose a mix of portion packs and a few larger packs. Small bags of crisps or sweets are easy to hand out. A bag of nut mix, popcorn or cocktail nuts adds to the table without everyone having to choose the same flavour.
Store snacks in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Seal opened bags properly or use an airtight storage container. Check the best-before information on the packaging and do not use damaged packs.
That depends on the product. Compare the total price, total weight and number of portions. A multipack can offer extra convenience and flavour variety, but a large bag may work out cheaper per 100 grams. Also consider how many packs you actually need.