Buying international snacks may seem simple, but the range varies widely in flavour, size, ingredients and storage instructions. Eye-catching packaging doesn’t automatically mean a product will suit your tastes. When buying American snacks, spicy crisps and frozen pizzas in particular, it’s easy to make the wrong choice because of three common pitfalls.
Words such as “hot”, “extra hot” or “fuego” give you an indication, but the actual experience varies from person to person. So check both the flavour description and the ingredients list. Carolina Reaper, cayenne pepper, chilli and jalapeño indicate a different level of heat from black pepper or paprika alone.
A multipack can be handy for a party, but may not be the best choice if you want to try a flavour first. Check the weight per pack, the number of servings and how long the product keeps once opened. For snacks such as tortilla chips, chocolate biscuits and sweets, the packaging also affects how long they stay crunchy.
A product with an American style may have been made in the Netherlands or another country. So don’t just look at the name: check the ingredients, allergens, nutritional information and preparation instructions too. When buying frozen pizza, the cold chain is also important: the product should stay frozen until you’re ready to cook it.
Ingredients are listed in descending order by weight. Pay particular attention to milk, soya, wheat, mustard, egg, lupin and crustaceans. For example, milk is listed as an allergen for Takis Intense Nacho. According to the product information, Takis Chili & Lime Fuego contains soya. Ingredients may vary by flavour or market, so always use the label on the pack you receive as your final check.
Parle Hide & Seek Bourbon biscuits list wheat, milk, soya and sulphites, among other ingredients. If you’re looking for chocolate biscuits, it’s worth checking these allergens as well as the chocolate flavour.
Compare products per 100 grams, not just per bag or serving. This makes it easier to see the difference between pack sizes. Takis Intense Nacho lists 505 kcal and 1.6 grams of salt per 100 grams. Pringles Hot & Spicy lists 480 kcal and 1.5 grams of salt per 100 grams. This makes comparison easier, even when serving sizes differ.
Dry snacks should generally be stored in a cool, dry place, away from heat and direct sunlight. Seal an opened bag tightly to help keep the contents crunchy for longer. Frozen pizzas should remain frozen until you’re ready to use them. According to the product information, Big Americans Pizza Shoarma takes around 12 to 14 minutes in a preheated oven; other varieties have different cooking times. Always check the packaging.
For frozen products, also check for damage to the packaging and signs that the product has defrosted. According to the instructions provided, once defrosted, a product must not be refrozen.
Why it suits this shopper: A handy size for trying a familiar American flavour without buying a multipack straight away.
The product information includes the pack size, flavour and allergens, so you don’t have to rely on the packaging alone.
170 grams, corn crisps with a sour cream flavour and nutritional information per 100 grams.
Why it suits this shopper: A great choice for a film or gaming night if you’re after a thick American-style pizza base and generous toppings.
The preparation method, weight and storage instructions are clearly stated. This helps you plan ahead for oven space and freezer room.
460 grams, thick base, chicken, peppers, sweetcorn and mozzarella; ready in around 14 to 16 minutes.
Why it suits this shopper: For fans of bold, tangy and spicy flavours who are specifically looking to buy Takis.
The description specifically mentions chilli and lime. Soya is also listed as an allergen, so you can make an informed choice about the flavour and ingredients.
100 grams, rolled corn crisps, chilli and lime flavour, and a listed nutritional value of 502 kcal per 100 grams.
Why it suits this shopper: A generous pack for a quick meal or your store cupboard, made with plant-based ingredients.
The product information clearly states that it is 100% plant-based and lists lupin as an allergen. This helps you check whether it suits your dietary needs.
555 grams, quinoa, black beans, vegetables and Mexican spices; a great choice for a vegan chilli-style meal.
For a get-together or film night, try combining different textures:
For sauces, check the storage advice on the label after opening. If you’re putting together a selection for a group, make sure allergen information is easy to see and don’t rely on the product name alone.
We’ve put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety requirements.
Check the product language, ingredients, allergens, pack size and shelf life. It’s also worth comparing the weight per pack. Recipes and nutritional information for imported international snacks can vary between flavours.
Store dry snacks in a cool, dry place and seal opened packs tightly. Keep frozen products frozen until you’re ready to cook them. If in doubt, follow the date and instructions on the packaging.
Choose a mix of sharing packs, individual portions and different levels of heat. Salsa dip with tortilla chips, a multipack of spicy crisps and a few sweet snacks give everyone options, so they don’t all have to choose the same flavour.