What should you look for when buying?
Start by checking the nutritional information for the exact product, then check the portion, allergens and school policy. This helps you avoid confusing a preparation method or smaller portion with a lower fat content in the product itself.
| What to consider |
What should you check? |
Who should pay particular attention? |
| Genuinely lower fat content |
Compare the fat per 100 g and check the exact product. For a ‘low fat’ claim on solid foods, the European Commission sets a maximum of 3 g of fat per 100 g; the Duyvis, AH and PLUS labels reviewed state 43 g, 50 g and 46.5 g per 100 g respectively. |
If you’re looking for a demonstrably lower fat content, check both the claim and the nutrition table. Around 31% of consumers prioritise this. |
| Allergens and eating format |
Read the current label and check your school’s policy. The NVWA requires allergen information for pre-packed products to appear on the label; the Voedingscentrum warns against whole nuts because of the risk of choking. |
If you’re packing a snack for a child, first check whether nuts are allowed and which form is suitable. Around 25% of consumers prioritise safety. |
| Nutritional value per portion |
Compare fat, energy and salt per 100 g, then calculate the amount you’re packing. The labels reviewed state 586 kcal and 0.92 g of salt for Duyvis, 622 kcal for AH, and 598 kcal and 0.07 g of salt for PLUS, each per 100 g. The AH product states 0 g of salt per 100 g. |
If you want to know what’s in your snack box, check the value per 100 g as well as the amount you actually pack. Around 25% of consumers prioritise portion-based nutrition. |
| Portioning and storage |
Check the net weight, portion information and storage instructions. The Duyvis pack reviewed contains 125 g, the AH cup 170 g and the PLUS bag 200 g. AH advises closing the pack securely after use and storing it in a cool, dark and dry place. |
If you’re preparing snacks for several school days, look for easy-to-measure amounts and check how to store the rest. Around 19% of consumers prioritise convenience when packing. |
Cashews on Joybuy
Related products coming soon.
Frequently asked questions
Does unsalted mean cashews are low fat?
No. The AH product reviewed is unsalted, but states 50 g of fat per 100 g. For a ‘low fat’ claim on solid foods, the European Commission sets a maximum of 3 g of fat per 100 g.
Is a 25 or 30 g portion on the label automatically the right amount for my child?
No. Treat this as portion information for the products in question, not personal dietary advice. Duyvis and AH use different portion sizes; compare the products per 100 g first, then choose an amount that suits your child’s eating habits.
What should I look out for with young children?
The Voedingscentrum warns against whole nuts because of the risk of choking. Amsterdam UMC advises giving nut butter rather than whole nuts to children under 4, and points out that older children can choke too. This is safety advice, not a guarantee that whole nuts are safe from a particular age.
What allergen information must be shown on packaged cashews?
According to the NVWA, allergen information for pre-packed products must appear on the label. Also read any additional information on the exact pack, such as a warning that it may contain peanuts.
How should I store an opened pack?
Follow the instructions on your product’s label. For the product reviewed, AH advises storing it in a cool, dark and dry place and closing the pack securely after use. For the Duyvis product reviewed, the advice is to put the opened bag in a light- and airtight container.