Healthy Snack Guidelines

Healthiest – must meet both criteria

• 3 grams of Total Fat or fewer per serving (Nuts and seeds exempt from restrictions.)

• 30 grams of Carbohydrates or fewer per serving (All candies are considered unhealthy.

Fruit in any form is permitted, regardless of carbohydrate count.)

Healthier – must meet both criteria

• 5 grams of Total Fat or fewer per serving (Nuts and seeds exempt from restrictions.)

• 30 grams of Carbohydrates or fewer per serving (All candies are considered unhealthy.)

Fruit in any form is permitted, regardless of carbohydrate count.)

Portion Size - Portion size is not defined for any items, but smaller portion sizes are preferred.

Rationale

Fat: It was determined not to differentiate saturated fat from unsaturated fat. When total fat is considered, saturated fat tends to be low.

Nuts and seeds: Nuts and seeds are exempt from the fat guidelines, because they are high in monounsaturated fat, which can help lower “bad” LDL cholesterol and maintain “good” HDL cholesterol. Nuts and Seeds have been shown in many studies to reduce the risk of having a heart attack.

Carbohydrates: The level of carbohydrates was set at 30 grams per serving to include more food  items. All candies are considered unhealthy, regardless of carbohydrate content.

Fruit: Fruit in any form (canned, fresh, dried) was not restricted by carbohydrate standards because it provides vitamins, minerals, anti-oxidants and dietary fiber that are beneficial to an overall balanced diet.

Portion size: Portion size is not defined, because there is variability among products. However, the preference is for smaller-portioned product

Healthiest 

• Milk – Lowfat (1%) or Nonfat preferred, any flavor

• Water – Pure

• Juice – at least 50% fruit or vegetable juice

Healthier

• Water – Flavored or vitamin enhanced

• Low-Calorie Beverage – (<50 calories per 12 oz serving)

Rationale

Milk: Milk in any form provides vitamins and minerals, but the low-fat and non-fat versions are preferred. Flavored milks are permitted.

Water: Pure water is preferred, but water that is flavored maybe more attractive to someone who doesn’t drink plain water. The vitamin-enhanced waters may benefit people with such nutritional needs, although pure water is the healthiest choice.

Juice: Fruit and vegetable juices should contain at least 50-percent juice, coinciding with the California Consensus.

Carbonation and caffeine: Carbonation and caffeine in moderation do not have a significant effect on nutrition. Carbonated low-calorie beverages may be another option for people who don’t like milk or plain water.

Low-calorie: Beverages containing 50 calories or fewer per 12 oz serving were deemed healthier options. Artificially sweetened drinks are not as healthy as pure water but may be a healthy alternative for people trying to watch their weight or manage their diabetes.