If you prepare lunchboxes
Individual, easy-to-count portions make it simple to set aside packets for several occasions. A single flavour is a good fit if you already know which one is wanted.
Who are these pack sizes suitable for?
If you want to offer snacks to guests
A box containing different snacks and flavours gives people more choice. Just check how many packets of each type are in the box and whether the ingredients are suitable for everyone.
If you’re topping up your everyday supplies
For a small top-up, consider the number of individual packets, the total weight and the flavours in the pack. That way, you can compare a sharing bag with a larger variety box without relying on the number of items alone.
What should you look for when choosing?
First decide whether you need equal portions, a choice of flavours or a simple top-up. Then check the contents of the specific pack.
| What to consider | What to check before buying | Who it matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Consistent portions for lunchboxes | Check the number of individual packets, the weight of each one and the flavours. | If I’m planning ahead for several lunchboxes, I want to know how many portions I can pack without opening a large bag each time. For around 42% of consumers, having that predictability is the main priority. |
| Variety to share | Check the number of each snack type and read the ingredients for each variety. | When I have guests, I want to offer a choice of flavours, but I also need to know what’s in each packet. This freedom of choice is the main need for around 33% of consumers. |
| A simple top-up for your cupboard | Compare the number of packets and the total weight, and check that the pack includes the flavours you want. | For a small top-up, I mainly want to know whether the box contains enough individual packets for the occasions I have planned. Around 25% of consumers give this the highest priority. |
Common mistakes
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Comparing only the number of packets
A box with more packets doesn’t automatically contain more crisps: the weight per packet and the total weight can vary.
When comparing, look at both the number of individual portions and their weights. Then choose the size that suits how you plan to use it.
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Assuming all the flavours in a variety box are the same
Ingredients can vary between snack types. In the Lay’s Mega Box described by Albert Heijn, for example, some items in the mix contain milk and soya.
If you have allergies, check the latest ingredients and allergen information for every variety, not just the name on the outside of the box.
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Assuming every variety is available through the same channel
A range on a retailer’s website doesn’t mean that every crisp variety can be ordered online; for example, Lidl labels the Snack Day varieties shown as in-store products.
Before you shop for a top-up, check that the pack you want is available through your preferred channel.
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Assuming smaller packets have different nutritional values
A smaller packet doesn’t change the nutritional value of the crisps themselves. The Netherlands Nutrition Centre recommends comparing product nutrition information per 100 g.
Use the weight per packet to plan portions, and check the nutrition information per 100 g and per portion for your chosen flavour.
Brands compared
Lay's
Worth considering if you’re choosing between individual packets in one flavour and a mixed snack box.
- Lay's says its small packets are made for sharing. Albert Heijn also describes a Mega Box containing 20 items and a selection of snack types.
- Ingredients can vary between snack types in a mixed box. Check the information for every variety if allergens are a concern.
Pringles
An option if you’d prefer individual tubes in one chosen flavour to packets from a variety box.
- Jumbo lists Pringles flavours in 165 g tubes; when choosing one, the flavour you want is the main consideration.
- A large tube is a different pack format from individual lunchbox packets. If you’re buying a multipack, check the number and size of the tubes.
Jumbo
This own-label brand is worth considering if you’re looking for a sharing bag with familiar classic flavours.
- Jumbo lists a sharing bag containing 15 packets of 25 g in paprika and original flavours.
- Two flavours offer less variety than a box containing several snack types. Also check that the number of packets suits your plans.
Snack Day
Lidl’s own-label brand may be worth considering if you’re looking for crisps in store for a snack occasion.
- Lidl lists a range of crisp varieties under Snack Day.
- Lidl labels the varieties shown as in-store products. Check the individual pack if you’re specifically looking for single-serve sharing packets.
Crisp multipacks at Joybuy
This selection includes individual portions in one flavour and variety boxes for sharing. Note the difference between tubes and packets, and check which varieties are included in a mixed box.
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Pringles Red Pepper, 12 × 40 g
For anyone who wants to take individual portions in one chosen flavour. According to the product name, this multipack contains 12 units of 40 g; they’re tubes rather than packets.
If ingredients and allergens are important to you, check the latest information on the pack.
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Lay's Fun Mix Box, 15 items
For anyone who wants to share individual snacks and would rather have a mix than one familiar flavour. The product name lists 15 items.
Check the number of each variety and, if you have allergies, read the information for each snack type.
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Lay's Cheetos Doritos Mega Box, 20 items
For sharing when you want to offer a selection of snack types. The box contains 20 items; check how they’re divided between varieties if you’d like more of certain flavours.
Check the latest ingredients and allergen information for each variety on the pack.
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Croky Sharing Mix, 180 g
For anyone considering a crisp mix for a smaller gathering. The product name lists 180 g; if you’re planning portions, check the pack for the number of packets and the weight of each one.
If allergens are a concern, also check the ingredients of the varieties included.
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Lay's Doritos Chill Box, 12 items
For anyone who wants to offer a choice of snacks when sharing. The product name lists 12 items; check the weight and the mix of flavours if you’re buying for specific portions or preferences.
Check the latest ingredients and allergen information for each variety.
Frequently asked questions
Which crisp multipack is suitable for lunchboxes?
Individual portions in one familiar flavour are a good fit if you want to plan ahead and variety is less important. Check the number of packets or tubes and the weight of each one; Jumbo, for example, lists Lay's packs containing 20 packets of 40 g.
Is a variety box easier for sharing?
A variety box is a good choice if people want different flavours, but it won’t necessarily suit every group. Check how many items of each type are included and read the ingredients for each variety; some items in the Lay’s Mega Box described by Albert Heijn contain milk and soya.
How do I compare multipacks with packets in different sizes?
Compare the total weight, the number of packets and the weight of each packet. This helps you see whether a pack gives you both the amount of crisps and the number of individual portions you need.
Where can I find allergen information for a variety box?
Read the latest labels and ingredients information for each variety. The Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority explains that food labels must list 14 allergens; for a variety box, don’t rely on the flavour name or the front of the box alone.
Does a small packet tell me anything about the nutritional value of the crisps?
No, the pack size alone doesn’t tell you the nutritional value of what’s inside. Use the nutrition information per 100 g to compare flavours, and check the information per portion to see what’s in one packet.