Healthy Snack Ideas for Work or Study

Maintaining energy levels and concentration during long hours of work or study is crucial. A well-chosen snack can make a significant difference in your productivity and overall health. 

Here are some nutritious and delicious snack ideas to keep you going throughout the day.

1. Fresh Fruit

Nothing beats the simplicity and nutritional value of fresh fruit. Apples, bananas, berries, and grapes are perfect for a quick snack. They are packed with vitamins, minerals, and fibre, which help maintain energy levels and promote healthy digestion. 

A small portion of dried fruit, such as apricots or raisins, can also be a convenient option, but be mindful of the sugar content.

2. Nuts and Seeds

A small handful of nuts and seeds can provide a satisfying crunch and a boost of healthy fats, protein, and fibre. Almonds, walnuts, cashews, and pumpkin seeds are excellent choices. They help keep you full longer and provide essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for brain health.

3. Yoghurt and Berries

A serving of plain Greek yoghurt topped with fresh berries is a fantastic snack that combines protein, calcium, and antioxidants. This combination helps stabilise blood sugar levels and keep cravings at bay. If you prefer a bit of sweetness, drizzle a small amount of honey on top.

4. Wholegrain Crackers and Cheese

Wholegrain crackers paired with a small portion of cheese can be both satisfying and nourishing. Opt for wholegrain or oat-based crackers, which provide fibre and complex carbohydrates. Cheese, in moderation, offers calcium and protein. Choose options like cheddar, feta, or cottage cheese for a balanced snack.

5. Veggie Sticks and Hummus

Cut up some fresh vegetables like carrots, cucumbers, bell peppers, and celery, and pair them with a generous dollop of hummus. This snack is rich in vitamins, minerals, and fibre, while hummus adds protein and healthy fats. It’s a great way to get a variety of nutrients in one go.

6. Smoothies

A smoothie can be a refreshing and nutritious snack, especially when you’re on the go. Blend a mix of your favourite fruits, a handful of spinach or kale, a spoonful of nut butter, and some almond milk or water. This provides a balanced combination of vitamins, minerals, and protein, perfect for a midday pick-me-up. (Please see our previous post about healthy smoothies.)

7. Oat Bars

Homemade oat bars can be a healthy alternative to shop-bought ones, which often contain added sugars and preservatives. Combine rolled oats, nuts, seeds, dried fruit, and a bit of honey or maple syrup. Bake and cut into portions for a convenient, fibre-rich snack.

8. Boiled Eggs

Boiled eggs are a fantastic source of high-quality protein and essential vitamins and minerals. They are easy to prepare and can be stored in the fridge for a quick, nutritious snack. Sprinkle with a little salt and pepper or paprika for added flavour.

9. Avocado on Wholegrain Toast

Mash half an avocado and spread it on a slice of wholegrain toast for a filling and nutritious snack. Avocados are packed with healthy fats, fibre, and a range of vitamins and minerals. This snack can help sustain energy levels and keep you feeling satisfied.

10. Dark Chocolate

A small piece of dark chocolate can be a delightful treat that also offers health benefits. Dark chocolate with a high cocoa content (70% or more) is rich in antioxidants and can help improve mood and brain function. Just remember to enjoy it in moderation.

Conclusion

Snacking can be both enjoyable and beneficial when you choose the right foods. By incorporating a variety of fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and wholegrains, you can ensure your snacks are nutritious and satisfying. These healthy snack ideas are perfect for keeping your energy levels up and your mind focused during work or study sessions. Happy snacking!

Fuelling Your On-the-Go Lifestyle: Healthy Snack Ideas

In today's fast-paced world, finding time to sit down and enjoy a full meal can be challenging.

Whether you're rushing between work meetings, shuttling kids to activities, or travelling, it's easy to succumb to the temptation of grabbing a quick, unhealthy snack. 

However, with a little planning and creativity, you can fuel your on-the-go lifestyle with nutritious snacks that provide sustained energy and keep you feeling satisfied. Here are some healthy snack ideas to keep you going when you're on the move and out and about:

Mixed Nuts and Seeds: A handful of mixed nuts and seeds is a convenient and satisfying snack packed with protein, healthy fats, and fiber. Almonds, walnuts, pumpkin seeds, and sunflower seeds are excellent choices. You can portion them out into small resealable bags or containers for easy grab-and-go convenience.

Greek Yogurt Parfait: Greek yogurt is a rich source of protein, calcium, and probiotics, making it an ideal snack for a busy day. Layer it with fresh berries, granola, and a drizzle of honey for a delicious and nutritious parfait. Prep these in advance in portable containers for a quick and easy snack option.

Hard-Boiled Eggs: Hard-boiled eggs are a portable snack that's rich in protein and essential nutrients like vitamin D and B vitamins. Prepare a batch at the beginning of the week and store them in the fridge for a convenient on-the-go snack option.

Hummus and Veggie Sticks: Hummus is a flavourful dip made from chickpeas, tahini, and olive oil, providing a good source of plant-based protein and fibre. Pair it with carrot sticks, cucumber slices, bell pepper strips, or whole-grain crackers for a satisfying snack that's both nutritious and delicious.

Apple Slices with Nut Butter: Apples are high in fibre and antioxidants, while nut butter adds healthy fats and protein, making this combination a perfect on-the-go snack. Opt for natural nut butter without added sugars or oils for the healthiest option.

Trail Mix: Create your own trail mix by combining nuts, seeds, dried fruits, and a sprinkle of dark chocolate chips for a balanced snack that provides a mix of nutrients and flavours. Portion it into small containers or resealable bags for easy snacking wherever you go.

Rice Cakes with Avocado: Rice cakes are a light and crunchy snack that can be topped with mashed avocado for a boost of healthy fats and fibre. Add a sprinkle of sea salt or red pepper flakes for extra flavuor.

Edamame: Edamame, or young soybeans, are a nutrient-rich snack that's packed with protein, fibre, and essential vitamins and minerals. Enjoy them steamed and lightly salted for a satisfying on-the-go option.

Cottage Cheese with Pineapple: Cottage cheese is a low-fat, high-protein snack that pairs well with fresh pineapple chunks for a sweet and savoury flavour combination. Pack them in a portable container for a nutritious snack to enjoy anywhere.

Veggie Wraps: Fill whole-grain wraps or lettuce leaves with hummus, sliced vegetables, and lean protein such as grilled chicken or turkey for a balanced, portable meal option that's perfect for on-the-go lifestyles.

Incorporating these healthy snack ideas into your on-the-go lifestyle can help you stay fuelled and energised throughout the day while providing your body with the nutrients it needs to thrive. With a little preparation and creativity, eating healthy on the move can be both convenient and delicious. So next time you're rushing out the door, grab one of these nutritious snacks and enjoy the benefits of nourishing your body wherever your day takes you.

Made for Drink Teams Up With Baron Bigod to Put a Gastronomic Spin on the Humble Cheese & Onion Crisp

When Made for Drink were given the job by English Heritage to put their unique gastronomic spin on the time-honoured cheese & onion crisp, a stalwart of our island's unrivalled fine crisp traditions, it was immediately clear Dan and his team would be tearing up the rulebook to provide Cheese & Onion with the culinary reboot it so richly deserved.

Baron Bigod was quickly identified as the all-important fine cheese compatriot, a treasured food union that brought one of rural Suffolk's most treasured foodie heroes into Made for Drink's Thursday night fine snacking orbit.  

What is Baron Bigod? It's a proud squidgy cheese in the Brie-de-Meaux style, a small batch artisanal offering that uses only the freshest morning milk from its highly prized Montbeliarde herd, because 'early hours' milk is the perfect temperature for fine cheese production.

According to the founder of Made for Drink, Dan Featherstone, "Baron Bigod has become a regular Thursday night companion on the Featherstone cheeseboard, a newfound favourite among friends and family.  

"Everyone in our fine snacking huddle adores this cheese's deliciously distinct nutty rind and the fresh buttery yet earthy texture that comes complete with a discreet citrusy twang.  When English Heritage challenged me to produce a cheese and  onion crisp that celebrated England's finest cheese wisdom, I knew precisely who to talk to!"

This perfect marriage of like-minded food heroes means Made for Drink is aligned with a fine cheese luminary who will not only help Made for Drink press forwards within the Ontrade, indie wholesalers and discerning food halls ambitions but also grow their profile within the UK's flourishing fine deli and cheese hall estates; establishments that once-upon-a-time might have been a tad sniffy about the rethinking of the ultimate cheese & onion treat.

 "When Dan from Made for Drinks got in touch with us, we were so pleased that they wanted to use our cheese to make crisps. We then got a sample back from Dan, which was the powder flavouring, before it was added to crisps, we were totally blown away! From that moment on we were all fully sold on the idea and can't wait for you all to try them.

"They are a savoury, gourmet delight that combines the creamy and indulgent flavours of the cheese with the crispy, flavourful notes of caramelised onion, resulting in a rich and irresistibly fragrant treat," says Iona , who is the Sales Manager at Fen Farm Dairy.

 From an English Heritage perspective, this latest addition to their fine snacking stable hits all the right notes, adding an unmistakably gourmet twist to a 'nation favourite' whilst shining a light on yet another of our island's inspiring small food producers.

Baron Bigod Cheese & Onion crisps will be is available from June 23 onwards.

Available in 150g (£2.75) & 40g bags (£1.35).