Joybuy Insights

Buying snacks: how to choose bars and savoury treats without regretting your purchase

Buying snacks may seem simple, but when shopping online, it is easy to lose sight of what you are actually getting behind the packaging. A large multipack may look like good value, for example, while the individual portions are small. Terms such as “zero”, “protein” or “natural” also do not automatically mean that a product is right for your snacking occasion.

So pay particular attention to these three common pitfalls:

  • Confusing marketing language with nutritional information: “no added sugars” does not mean that a bar is sugar-free. It may contain naturally occurring sugars or sweeteners.
  • Looking only at the packaging: Colourful packaging tells you little about allergens, portion size or the number of bars in a pack.
  • Forgetting the occasion: A large chocolate bar is handy for sharing, but less practical as a snack on the go. Individually wrapped snacks are often easier to take with you.

What should you look for when buying snacks?

1. Check the portion size and packaging

Do not compare just the total weight. Also look at the number of pieces and the weight per piece. A 160-gram box may contain four bars, while a 120-gram pack contains six small bars. For the office, school or when you are out and about, individually wrapped snacks are practical and hygienic.

A multipack of snacks is suitable when you want to stock up or hand them out. For a treat or a film night, a larger pack, such as a 200- or 300-gram chocolate product, may be a better fit.

2. Read the nutritional values per 100 grams and per serving

The nutritional table per 100 grams makes it easier to compare products. The information per bar then tells you what you are actually consuming during one snack break.

For chocolate bars and biscuit bars, pay particular attention to:

  • energy;
  • fat and saturated fat;
  • carbohydrates and sugars;
  • protein and fibre;
  • salt.

A product with “protein” on the packaging does not automatically contain little sugar or fat. For example, according to the supplied product information, the LiGA Protein Bar Peanut contains 15 grams of protein per 100 grams, but also 24 grams of sugars and 24 grams of fat per 100 grams. Use the full table to compare products, rather than looking only at the name.

3. Check allergens and dietary requirements

Always check the current ingredients list on the packaging. This is particularly important for gluten-free snacks, nut bars and snacks containing chocolate. Ingredients may vary between different versions.

Examples:

  • According to the product information, Chio Heart Salt Bars are labelled gluten-free and do not contain any of the listed EU allergens in the ingredients list.
  • Hero B’Tween bars contain, among other ingredients, oats, barley, wheat, gluten-containing cereals, milk and peanuts.
  • Zonnatura Organic Nut Bar contains peanuts, almonds and other nuts, and may contain sesame.
  • Milka and Toblerone products contain milk and soya; some varieties also contain hazelnuts, almonds or wheat.

If you are looking for sugar-free muesli bars, you should also check the difference between “no added sugars” and “sugar-free”. According to the product description, the Hero B’Tween Zero varieties are made without added sugars, but contain maltitol and state that excessive consumption may have a laxative effect.

Which snack is right for your needs?

The right choice depends on the occasion. For a sweet treat, chocolate bars, biscuit bars and wafers are natural choices. If you want to take something to work or on the train, it is better to consider the size, shelf life and individual wrapping. Savoury snacks and larger sharing packs are ideal for drinks with friends or a film night.

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Hero B'Tween Zero Muesli Bar with Milk Chocolate - 6 pcs

Hero B'Tween Zero Muesli Bar with Milk Chocolate - 6 pcs

Why it suits this profile: Six individually wrapped 25-gram bars are easy to spread across several snack breaks, whether at home or at work.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The portions are clearly divided. However, check the sweeteners and allergens on the label: the bar contains, among other ingredients, wheat, gluten, milk and peanuts.

Key benefit & highlights

6 x 25 grams, individually wrapped and, according to the product information, made without added sugars.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for premium quality
Milka Chocolate Bar And Chocolate Cookies - 300 g

Milka Chocolate Bar And Chocolate Cookies - 300 g

Why it suits this profile: The combination of milk chocolate and crunchy biscuit makes this larger bar ideal for sharing or serving over several occasions.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The resealable format helps you store it after opening. Please note: the ingredients list includes wheat, hazelnuts, milk and soya, among other ingredients.

Key benefit & highlights

300 grams, resealable packaging and three textures according to the product description.

Suitable for: Specific needs & frequent snackers
Hero Protein Peanuts and Chocolate - 4 pcs

Hero Protein Peanuts and Chocolate - 4 pcs

Why it suits this profile: The bars are individually wrapped and, according to the product information, contain 59% roasted peanuts, making them suitable as a substantial snack on the go or during a busy working day.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The “protein” claim is backed up with 17 grams of protein per 100 grams. The bar also contains 20 grams of sugars per 100 grams, as well as peanuts, milk and soya.

Key benefit & highlights

4 individually wrapped bars, 59% peanuts and 17 grams of protein per 100 grams according to the product label.

Suitable for: Fans of savoury and gluten-free snacks
Chio Heart Salt Bars - 125 g

Chio Heart Salt Bars - 125 g

Why it suits this profile: According to the product information, this paprika-flavoured snack is ready to eat and vegetarian, making it ideal for anyone who prefers savoury snacks to sweet ones.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The gluten-free composition is clearly stated in the product information. However, the snack contains 1.8 grams of salt per 100 grams, so compare this with your personal preference.

Key benefit & highlights

125 grams, paprika flavour, vegetarian and, according to the product description, gluten-free.

Looking for more options?

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.

Frequently asked questions about buying snacks

Which snacks are convenient for when you are out and about?

Choose small formats and individually wrapped snacks. Muesli bars, protein bars and smaller chocolate bars take up little space and are ready to eat. In warm weather, check the storage advice, as chocolate can soften.

Are muesli bars with no added sugars sugar-free?

No, not necessarily. A bar with no added sugars may contain natural sugars and may be sweetened with polyols or other sweeteners. So always read the ingredients list and nutritional table.

How long do snacks stay fresh?

The best-before date is shown on the packaging. Store snacks according to the product advice, usually in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. After opening, keeping the packaging properly sealed helps limit moisture and loss of quality. Check the packaging before use and do not consume a product if it is damaged.