The Best Vegan Snacks

Nature’s Bakery Whole Wheat Fig Bars

Fig-uratively Speaking

These figgy delights are a healthy update to an old favorite.

Best Bars

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For many people, fig bars were a staple of their childhood. But though they may be slightly healthier than your run-of-the-mill sandwich cookie, those little treats still contain some not-so-great ingredients. Fortunately, Nature’s Bakery has created a snack similar to that nostalgic favorite that’s packed with much healthier, vegan-friendly ingredients. In these little bites, you’ll find cinnamon, real figs and apples, fruit juice, and whole grain oats — and not a hint of any artificial ingredients. These are an excellent option for those on the go, too, as they fit easily into any backpack, purse, or desk drawer.

Pros:

• Made in a nut-free facility, so those with allergies can safely enjoy them
• Available in nine flavors as well as a variety pack

Con:

• Bars may dry out over time, but we usually eat all of them long before that point

Power Up Trail Mix

Daily Mix

These pouches provide a sweet and savory snack for those who want a little boost of energy.

Best Snack Mix

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Trail mix is a common source of sustenance for outdoorsy types, but it’s also a perfect snack for vegans, even if the only hike you do is to and from work. This great combination of nuts, seeds, and dried fruit provides clean energy and healthy fats for a filling snack that won’t weigh you down. The individually packaged servings also boast between 9 and 11 grams of protein and no added sugars. In addition, this brand uses no preservatives and no sulfites, which can cause an allergic reaction in some people.

Pros:

• Available in four different mixes with a wide variety of flavors
• Serving size is much larger than similar items
• All varieties are high in Omega-3 fatty acids

Con:

• Some bags may have an unequal balance of fruit to nuts

Bada Bean Bada Boom Buffalo Wing Fava Beans

Spill The Beans

Do us a fava and give these beans a try.

Best Snack Chips

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There are countless ways you could use these crispy little beans: as a substitute for croutons, a quick between-meetings snack, and even as a healthy swap for chips on game day. In addition to being vegan, each crunchy handful provides you with five times the fiber of a traditional chip, as well as four times the protein. And with no cholesterol or saturated fat, you really couldn’t ask for a more desirable alternative for you or your kids. These beans come in both savory and sweet flavors, too, so no matter what you’re in the mood for, you’re sure to find a flavor that satisfies your craving.

Pros:

• Fava beans are a great alternative to soybeans, as they’re easier to grow and more environmentally friendly
• Only 100 calories per serving

Con:

• Some of the sweet flavors contain stevia products, which may cause stomach discomfort for some

HighKey Coconut Macaroons

Cuckoo for Coconut

With the taste of fresh coconut and the texture of a crispy rice treat, these cookies are a no-brainer.

Best Cookie

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If you think it’s impossible to make a cookie moist and delicious without the use of any dairy, you haven’t been introduced to the HighKey Macaroon. These soft, chewy snacks are a great way to get your sugar fix without all the additives that other brands may include. In addition to being tasty, these bite-sized cookies also only have one net carb, one gram of sugar, and are made with less than ten ingredients — all of which you’ll be able to recognize. Pop these individually wrapped treats into your car for a perfect on-the-go snack, pair one with your morning coffee or tea, or swap them out with your kids’ usual dessert in their lunch. No matter how we use them, we never find ourselves missing the artificial stuff.

Pros:

• In addition to being vegan, these cookies are also Paleo-friendly and grain-free
• Perfectly sized to be filling and hearty without being too dense

Con:

• Since there are no preservatives, these may harden faster than other cookies

Unreal Dark Chocolate Coconut Bars

Good Things Come in Threes

These candies are so authentically delicious you could hand them out at Halloween.

Best Candy

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It’s said that three is a magic number, and after trying these, we might have to agree.  These candies containing only coconut, dark chocolate, and cassava syrup could fool just about anyone into believing that they were eating one of the delicious chocolatey coconut bars of their youth. The rich, creamy chocolate coating avoids the chalkiness of some vegan options, and the coconut filling tastes fresh and authentic. Unreal makes sure all of their products are sustainably made with non-GMO ingredients, so no matter how many of these bars you eat — and trust us, there will be many— you can rest assured that you’ll only be eating clean ingredients.

Pros:

• Made in small batches to ensure freshness and quality
• Shipped along with an ice pack to ensure the chocolate doesn’t melt during transit

Con:

• On the pricier side, but you really can’t beat the quality

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do people go vegan?

There are a few answers to this question, but the main reason people opt for this lifestyle is that they are against the cruel treatment of animals. By not participating in eating any animals or their byproducts, many feel that this is simply a more humane way to live. Another positive outcome of eating a plant-based diet includes the possibility of improved health since you’re not eating meat and dairy, both of which contain a lot of cholesterol. Additionally, it may also be better for the environment, as the farming of animals drains a lot of the earth’s natural resources.

Is it more expensive to be vegan?

Overall, it doesn’t have to be. Many of the main elements of a vegan diet like fruits, veggies, grains, and beans are reasonably priced and can sometimes be found even cheaper at places like local farmers’ markets. As with any diet, there will always be “specialty” items that can be more costly, but of course, there’s no reason that you must purchase those products. Additionally, as more plant-based products become available, it will become easier to find items that fit within your budget.