What Makes a Good Plant-Based Snack?
Nutritional Value
A quality plant-based snack should offer essential nutrients like protein, fibre, and healthy fats. These nutrients help keep you feeling full and energised throughout the day. For instance, snacks high in fibre support digestive health, while protein keeps your energy levels stable.
Check the Ingredients List
Aim for snacks with recognisable, natural ingredients to avoid any unnecessary additives. The fewer ingredients, the better! Simple ingredients mean you’re getting a product closer to its natural form, with all its essential vitamins, and often with better taste and texture as well. Steer clear of processed sugars that may provide a quick energy spike, as they often lead to a steep energy decline and sugar crash shortly after.
Look for High Nutrient, Low-Calorie Snacks
Ideal snacks will have a high nutrient-to-calorie ratio, ensuring each bite is packed with vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients. For example, fresh produce such as bell peppers are an excellent snack option. This helps you make the most of your snack in terms of both satiety and health benefits.
Top Plant-Based Snacks to Try in Malaysia
Tempeh Chips
Tempeh, a protein-rich option made from fermented soybeans, is delicious in chip form. These crispy snacks offer a savory umami flavor, ideal for sustained energy and a post-workout boost.
Veggie Crisps
Crunchy and colourful, veggie crisps made from ingredients like sweet potato are tasty and nutritious snacks. These crisps are typically lower in calories and can be a healthy option compared to most potato chips. Veggie crisps can satisfy cravings without the guilt. Their vibrant colours also add an appealing visual element to your healthy snack routine.
Fruit-Based Snacks
Dried fruits like jackfruit and banana are popular in Malaysia for their natural sweetness and no added sugars. They’re rich in vitamins and antioxidants, making them a healthier choice for those looking to satisfy their sweet tooth while enjoying the nutritional benefits. Plus, they’re convenient for on-the-go snacking.
Nuts and Seeds Mixes
Nuts and seeds, such as almonds, walnuts, pumpkin seeds, and sunflower seeds, are excellent sources of protein, fibre, and healthy fats. A handful of mixed nuts and seeds makes for an energising and filling snack that’s easy to carry and perfect for a quick pick-me-up during the day.
Energy Balls & Protein Bars
Combine oats, dates, nuts, and seeds to create nutrient-dense trail mix, energy balls, granola bars, and protein bars full of natural energy. Perfect for busy lifestyles, they offer a quick, satisfying bite high in fiber and healthy fats, with sweet options like peanut butter, chocolate, or fruit flavours.
Tips for Adding Plant-Based Snacks into Your Daily Diet
Pair with Balanced Meals
Plant-based snacks can be a great addition to a balanced diet, providing a source of protein or healthy fats that round out your nutrition intake for the day. For example, pairing hummus with veggies or nuts with fresh fruit can make a satisfying and complete snack to curb your hunger pangs.
Choose Snacks Based on Your Activity Level
If you’re highly active, opt for snacks with higher protein and calorie content, such as tempeh chips or energy bars. If you’re less active, lighter snacks like fruit or veggie crisps, or even fresh veggies like celery sticks, are great low-calorie options.
Prepare in Advance for Easy Access
Keep a selection of healthy travel snacks on hand at work, at home, or in your bag so you can easily reach for them when hunger strikes. Healthy snack options such as apple slices with low-fat Greek yogurt, whole-grain crackers, and hard-boiled eggs are a few convenient choices. Pre-portioning your snacks can also help with mindful eating and prevent overeating.
Embrace the Plant-Based Snacking Lifestyle
Choosing plant-based snacks is a healthy habit that supports nutrition and sustainability. Whether you’re a vegan or simply looking to add more plant-based, nutritious options to a healthy diet, Malaysia has a variety of delicious snack choices to explore. For more ideas and delicious options to help you reach your health goals, visit Sangla Foods for snacks that meet your taste and nutrition needs.