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How to choose a nut mix: find the perfect snack for every occasion

A nut mix might seem like a simple purchase, but the difference between a bag of salted peanuts, a luxury nut mix and a portion pack of nuts and dried fruit is huge. Whether you’re looking for something for a drinks party, the office, a long car journey or just for home, don’t just rely on the front of the packet.

Marketing terms like “natural”, “premium” or “healthy” don’t tell you much on their own. The ingredients list, nutritional values, allergen information and packaging give you a much better idea of what you’re buying. Below, you’ll find out what to look out for and which mixed nuts suit different occasions.

Three common pitfalls when buying nuts

1. A large pack isn’t always better value

A 500g nut mix might look appealing if you snack regularly, but check whether you’ll actually use it all before the best-before date. Nuts can lose their crunch once opened, especially if the packaging isn’t resealable.

For a household with several people, a bulk tin can be practical. For one person, smaller bags or individually wrapped portions are often more convenient. Always compare the price per 100g, not just the total price.

2. “Nut mix” can be mostly peanuts or starch

Check the order of the ingredients. Ingredients are usually listed in descending order of weight. For example, Duyvis Cocktail Nuts contains 50% peanuts, along with starch, oil, sugar and spices. That’s very different from a mix with walnuts, almonds, cashews and pecans.

Cocktail nuts and party nuts often have a crispy coating too. If you’re mainly after plain nuts, it’s better to choose unroasted nuts or a mix where the individual nut percentages are clearly stated.

3. A flavour claim doesn’t tell you about salt, sugar or allergens

“Lightly spiced” doesn’t automatically mean a product is low in salt. Always check the nutritional information per 100g. For instance, the product information for g’woon Cocktail Nuts BBQ Paprika shows 1.74g of salt per 100g, while the unroasted g’woon mix lists 0g of salt.

Also pay attention to allergens. Peanuts, almonds, cashews, walnuts, milk, soya, wheat and sesame can all appear in different mixes. Always check the actual packaging, even if an online product description seems to say something different.

Which specifications matter?

Composition and preparation method

First, choose between three main types:

  • Unroasted nuts: usually without added salt or spices. According to the product information, g’woon Unroasted Mixed Nuts contains 30% hazelnuts, 30% walnuts, 20% almonds and 20% cashews.
  • Roasted nuts: often drier and crunchier in texture. Check whether oil or salt has been added.
  • Cocktail nuts and party nuts: great for a drinks party thanks to their spiced or crispy coating, but the coating can also contain starch, sugar and extra salt.

According to its own product information, Three Squirrels Daily Nuts is made up of walnuts, cashews, almonds, pecans and macadamia nuts. The percentages are clearly stated: 38%, 32%, 18%, 6% and 6% respectively.

Nutritional values per 100g

Always compare the same unit. A portion of 25g or 30g might look neat, but the comparison only becomes clear when you look at the values per 100g.

Pay particular attention to:

  • Energy: nuts are energy-dense; the products mentioned range from around 424 to 667 kcal per 100g.
  • Salt: salted nuts and spiced cocktail nuts generally contain more salt than unsalted varieties.
  • Sugars: nuts and dried fruit can contain sugar; ChaCha Daily Nuts lists 28g of sugar per 100g.
  • Protein and fibre: useful points of comparison, but avoid drawing general health conclusions without looking at the full nutritional context.

Packaging and portions

A resealable tin or jar is handy for home and the office. Individual portions are ideal for on the go, because you don’t have to open the whole pack each time. Three Squirrels Mixed Nuts & Seeds comes as 750g, divided into 30 portions of 25g. Wolong Daily Nuts Series A also has 30 portions of 25g.

Check that the packaging seals properly after opening and store the nuts according to the label: cool, dry and out of direct sunlight. A sachet of drying agent should not be opened or consumed.

Recommended nut mix for each use profile

Best for: Budget-conscious beginners
g'woon Unroasted Mixed Nuts - 500g

g'woon Unroasted Mixed Nuts - 500g

Why this fits the profile: A straightforward nut mix for anyone looking for a basic product without spices or added salt, with 500g for multiple snacking occasions.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The composition is clearly stated: 30% hazelnut, 30% walnut, 20% almond and 20% cashew. This makes it obvious that it isn’t mostly coated peanuts.

Key benefit & highlights

Unroasted, unsalted and 500g. The packaging lists 0g of salt per 100g.

Best for: Shoppers seeking top quality
Three Squirrels Daily Nuts 500g

Three Squirrels Daily Nuts 500g

Why this fits the profile: For anyone who wants several types of nuts in one tin and also likes to use the mix in yoghurt, salads or baking recipes.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The five nut types and their percentages are specified. The stated salt content is 0.1g per 100g.

Key benefit & highlights

Walnuts, cashews, almonds, pecans and macadamias; resealable 500g tin.

Best for: Specific use & heavy users
Three Squirrels Daily Nuts Mixed Nuts & Seeds 750g

Three Squirrels Daily Nuts (Mixed Nuts & Seeds) 750g

Why this fits the profile: Handy for the office, travel and gym bags when fixed portions matter more than one big open bag.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The contents consist of 30 individual 25g packs. This keeps most of the stock sealed and makes the amount per serving clear.

Key benefit & highlights

750g total, with walnuts, cashews, cranberries, raisins, almonds and other nuts. The product information lists 0g of salt per 100g.

Looking for more options?

We’ve put together a full, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and comply with current European safety regulations.

Frequently asked questions about nut mixes

What’s a good nut mix for on the go?

Individual portions are practical. They take up little space and limit exposure to air and moisture after opening. For this purpose, the Three Squirrels Mixed Nuts & Seeds with 30 portions of 25g and the Wolong Daily Nuts Series A with 30 portions of 25g are relevant options. Always check the ingredients and allergens on the packaging when you buy.

How long does an opened nut mix stay fresh?

That depends on the date on the packaging, the seal and the storage conditions. Store an opened nut mix in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight. Seal a bag, jar or tin properly and don’t use the nuts if the packaging is damaged or the smell and taste have clearly changed.

Are unroasted nuts always a better choice?

Not necessarily. Unroasted nuts suit people who don’t want added salt or spices. For a drinks party, salted nuts or spiced cocktail nuts might actually match the flavour you’re after. So compare the ingredients list, salt content, portion size and allergen information with how you plan to use them.