Looking for shelf-stable snacks that are both healthy and satiating? Ones that last a long time without refrigeration? Ones that are low-carb and free from artificial ingredients, preservatives, and additives?
They're not always easy to find so we've rounded up a list for you. And best of all, some of them can be delivered right to your door so you don't have to make a trip to the grocery store.
Nut Butters
Nut butters are one of the most satiating healthy-fat snacks you can stock up on months ahead of time. Almond butter, cashew butter, and macadamia nut butter are all great choices. Most of them are available in single-serve packets and multi-serve jars. Be sure to check for added sugar and other sweeteners prior to buying.
Nut butters are a great source of essential fats, vitamins, and minerals. For example, macadamia nut butter is rich in manganese, thiamine, copper, magnesium, iron, and vitamin B6. Macadamia nuts are also a great source of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, which may help lower cholesterol and inflammation.
Cheese Crisps
Try cheese crisps the next time you have a craving for potato chips. This low-carb substitute for chips and crackers is a great source of fat and protein. Be sure to check the nutrition facts to make sure it's made with 100% cheese. The most common ones are cheddar or Parmesan based with a variety of seasonings and flavors.
Meat Sticks and Jerky
Most jerky and meat sticks are a great source of protein, but not many of them are also a great source of fat. To get a higher fat meat stick, look for ones made from pork. They're more tender and juicy due to the higher fat content. Also be on the lookout for preservatives and additives. Meat sticks have come a long way and you can now find those that are free from antibiotics, hormones, nitrates, nitrites, and MSG.
Nuts
Similar to nut butters, nuts (both raw and roasted) are a great low-carb snack. Almonds, walnuts, pecans, pistachios, hazelnuts, macadamia nuts, and cashews are all delicious choices. Nuts are a good source of heart-healthy essential fats, protein, and fiber, plus a variety of vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin B3, vitamin E, iron, zinc, magnesium, and folate [*]. They're always good to have around. Just a handful can get rid of the hunger pangs.
Seeds
Snacking on seeds is a great way to increase your fiber intake, which supports digestive health. Seeds are also rich in healthy monounsaturated fats, polyunsaturated fats, and many vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Seed consumption has been linked to lower blood sugar, cholesterol, and blood pressure [*]. Healthy options include flaxseeds, chia seeds, sesame seeds, hemp seeds, and sunflower seeds.
Bone Broth
Bone broth can be found in powdered or liquid form. The liquid form can be poured into a mug or bowl and heated in a microwave or simmered on a stove top. For the powdered version, simply mix with boiling water to enjoy. Both the liquid and powdered form can be stored in the pantry for months, but keep in mind that once open, the liquid version must be refrigerated and consumed within a few days.
Bone broth is an excellent source of collagen, which supports the health of your skin, nails, joints, and bones. It's also known for enhancing digestive health and helping with leaky gut syndrome, as well as improving sleep (thanks to the amino acid glycine) [*] Moreover, the vitamins and minerals in bone broth can enhance immune health, making your body's ability to fight off diseases and infections stronger [*][*].
Time to Stock Up
Shelf-stable low-carb snacks have come a long way. There are now delicious options with simple, clean, and natural ingredients, free from additives and preservatives. That way when you need to stock your pantry, you don't have to compromise on your health.
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