Buying Asian snacks may seem straightforward, but the wide range can make it hard to compare products. Looking for Korean, Japanese, Chinese or Thai snacks for a film night, party or snack box? You may soon come across packets with unfamiliar ingredients, small portions and flavours that turn out differently than you expected.
Three common pitfalls are worth keeping in mind:
First, think about what you need the snack for. Individual bags are handy for families, treats or parties. A larger bag is better for sharing during a film night, but may lose its crunch more quickly once opened.
A multipack of snacks offers variety and makes portioning easy. For example, the Lay’s Cheetos Doritos Mega Box contains 20 individual packs, including paprika, ready salted and cheese flavours. When comparing products, check not only the number of bags but also the weight of each one.
For a smaller stash, individual seaweed snacks, biscuits or sweets are more convenient. Also check the best-before date, and store dry snacks in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Think about the kinds of snacks that suit your household:
A flavour description can’t guarantee you’ll like a product. Chilli snacks can taste sour, sweet or savoury as well as spicy. If you’re trying a flavour for the first time, a small pack is a practical way to see if you like it.
Check the fat, sugar, salt and allergens per 100 grams. This makes it easier to compare products in different pack sizes. Also look at the order of the ingredients: those listed first are present in the largest quantities.
For example:
Product information can change. Use online details as a guide, and check the current packaging, allergen warnings and storage advice before eating.
Why it suits this profile: The box contains 12 bags of Lay's Max Paprika, Lay's Max Ready Salted, Doritos Nacho Cheese and Sensations Real Sweet Chilli. It gives beginners several flavours to try without having to buy multiple large bags.
Individual portions help reduce waste after opening. Do check the total weight and allergens on the packet before ordering.
12 pieces, four flavour options and ideal for sharing or a tasting session.
Why it suits this profile: This Korean snack combines a crunchy texture with chocolate and churro flavours and a hint of cinnamon. The product description mentions a four-layer texture, making it a great choice for a sweet tasting session.
The flavour and allergens are clearly described. It does contain wheat, milk and soya, so check before sharing it with others.
80 grams, a distinctive sweet flavour and a texture unlike standard biscuits or crisps.
Why it suits this profile: The three 4-gram bags are handy for a quick snack, a lunchbox or an assortment of different Asian flavours. This seasoned variety is aimed at fans of spicy snacks.
The portions are small and individually wrapped, so opening one doesn’t leave you with a large amount to get through. Check the current packet for ingredients and allergens.
3 x 4 grams, a crunchy seaweed texture and a spicy seasoned variety.
Why it suits this profile: With 20 bags and several savoury flavours, this box is handy for visitors, birthdays or a film night when everyone has different tastes.
Individual bags make it easier to manage the unopened snacks. The box contains milk and soya, so bear that in mind when sharing with a mixed group.
20 pieces, several types of crisps and individual portions for sharing.
We’ve put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.
You can compare Asian snacks online by flavour, size, origin, ingredients and packaging. Search for specific categories such as Korean snacks, Japanese snacks, Chinese snacks, Thai snacks, seaweed snacks, and Asian sweets and biscuits.
A multipack with different flavours is handy if you’re not sure what you like yet. For small tasting sessions, Pocky, individual seaweed portions or a small bag of Korean crisps are good options. If you like spicy snacks, you could start with a small pack of chilli-lime crisps or seasoned seaweed.
Store dry snacks according to the label, in a cool, dry place away from sunlight, heat and moisture. Seal opened bags tightly. Always check the best-before date, packaging and current allergen information before eating.