We spend a lot of time at the office, so having healthy, delicious snacks on hand can make all the difference on a busy workday. Instead of reaching for the junk food in the vending machine, here are some great office snack ideas that’ll keep you energized, focused, and well-nourished all day long.
Why having healthy snacks at the office matters
The right snacks can have a positive impact on your mood, productivity, and your long-term health goals! Below are three concepts we like to keep in mind when in comes to eating healthy at the office:
- Energy-Rich Snacks - Too many sweets during the workday can spike your blood sugar and leave you dragging rather than feeling energized. Eating healthy, nutrient-rich snacks can give you natural and sustainable energy to tackle your day instead.
- Healthy Options On-Hand - - Stress eating and mindless snacking are common while your mind is focused on your work, but it can lead to overeating. Having healthy snacks on hand ensures you always have better options to satisfy your cravings.
- Less Processed Foods - Snacks that are prepackaged for convenience can be heavily processed and contain trans fats, a bunch of sugar, and not many nutrients.
20 Ideas For Healthy Office-Friendly Snacks
Oatmeal
Oatmeal can serve as more than just a healthy breakfast! Because it is shelf-stable and full of healthy nutrients like fiber, complex carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals, oatmeal makes a good snack at any time of the day. Yishi Foods’ Taro Bubble Tea and Matcha Latte flavors even contain natural caffeine to help you power through the midday slump without having to trek to the nearby coffee shop.
Mixed nuts
Nuts like almonds, peanuts, cashews, and pistachios are great healthy snacks for the office since they’re nutrient-dense. They’re great sources of healthy fats, protein, and fiber!
Greek yogurt
Greek yogurt is a staple of healthy snacking since it’s full of protein and available in a variety of flavors. For office-friendly options, choose single-serving yogurt cups. You can even add your favorite toppings like fruit, granola, and nuts for additional texture and flavor.
Fruit
If you’re craving sweets but want to stay healthy, it’s hard to beat nature’s candy! Slice up your favorite fruits before you head into the office for a sweet, convenient snack during the workday. Or, choose shelf-stable options like apples, bananas, pears, and oranges that can be kept at your desk for easy access whenever midday hunger strikes.
Hummus & veggies
An assortment of crunchy vegetables like carrots, celery, and cherry tomatoes are excellent options to keep in the office fridge for healthy, fresh snacking. Adding some protein-packed hummus into the mix is even better!
Rice crackers
When you’re craving something salty, crispy, and savory, reach for rice crackers. These crackers are made of rice flour, so they’re relatively low in saturated fat when compared to other salty treats like potato chips.
Roasted seaweed
Roasted seaweed has plenty of umami flavor to make for satisfying snacking. It’s also chock-full of nutrients like fiber, iodine, and omega-3 fatty acids! You can eat sheets of roasted seaweed on their own, but they taste great when paired with other healthy snacks like nuts or rice crackers.
Sunflower seeds
Add some sunshine to your snacking routine with sunflower seeds! These tiny-but-mighty snacks are packed with healthy fats, fiber, vitamins, and minerals for an energizing snack.
Protein bars
If you’re conscious about your macronutrient intake, healthy protein bars are a good option. They’re also very office-friendly! Just make sure to be on the lookout for added sugars and artificial sweeteners.
Jerky
Jerky is a great source of complete protein, keeping you full and satisfied throughout the workday. It’s also shelf-stable, so it’s easily portable whenever you’re on the go. And nowadays there are options for every diet: omnivore, pescatarian, even vegan!
Popcorn
Air-popped popcorn is an excellent substitute for chips and other salty snacks. It’s relatively low in saturated fat but has fiber to keep you full and satisfied. For a really decadent, satisfying snack, lightly season popcorn with your favorite spices and herbs.
Rice cakes and nut butter
Rice cakes are thin, crispy, and crunchy. Add in your favorite nut butter for flavor and a dose of healthy dietary fat, and you’ll have a well-rounded, satisfying snack that still aligns with your health goals.
Trail Mix
Trail Mix is an excellent snacking option when you want something that is equal parts sweet and salty. For maximum control, make your own mix by combining your favorite dried fruits and nuts.
Veggie chips
For a snack that satisfies your potato chip craving with a little more fiber, consider making your own chips with an oven or an air fryer. Kale, sweet potatoes, and zucchini all make delicious chips that are a more nutritious alternative to prepackaged options.
Dark chocolate
Chocolate tends to get a bad rap, but dark chocolate is actually pretty healthy! It has lots of antioxidants to support your heart and immune health, as well as a bit of caffeine for an alertness boost.
String cheese
String cheese is the easily portable, high-protein snack you’ve been waiting for. Just make sure to toss it in the work fridge until you’re ready to eat.
Smoothies
For a healthy midday drink that’s jam-packed with nutrients, make yourself a fruit smoothie with your favorite fresh fruits and some protein-rich nut butter. They’re filling, refreshing, and provide enough natural energy to get you through your workday.
Bran muffins
Satisfy your sweet tooth by whipping up a batch of homemade bran muffins. Bran is full of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, and you can add your favorite nuts and fruit! You’ll get a filling and satisfying treat to satisfy your craving for baked goods without the added sugar found in the Danishes, scones, and sweet rolls at the nearby coffee shop.
Pretzels
Pretzels are the perfect office snack when you want something crunchy, substantial, and salty. Try adding garlic powder, lemon pepper seasoning, or smoked paprika for some extra zing.
Salsa
Salsa is a truly wonderful addition to your snack time arsenal. It’s made primarily of antioxidant-rich veggies and is fresh, satisfying, and delicious. It’s also really versatile: pair with crackers, veggies, chips, or anything else your heart desires!
Healthy, convenient snacks can boost your energy, improve your productivity, and satisfy that pesky midday hunger. Take your office snack time to the next level with some of these delicious and nutritious staples!