Plant-based foods have certainly been enjoying their time in the spotlight these days. And why shouldn’t they? Research shows that they can benefit your health in a number of ways, from helping with weight management to reducing the risk of heart disease. You can’t say that about your average vending machine snack!
So, to keep those tempting vending machine treats at bay, you should consider stocking the office with some delicious, plant-based snacks. Yes, delicious – plant-based foods have come a long way from their…let’s say…earthy-tasting past.
Check out the following list of 10 plant-based snacks to stock in your office.
1. Kale Chips
They may not be the cheapest plant-based snack on our list, but they are nutritious! Kale chips are flavourful, raw, and low in calories, making them an excellent choice for the office snack bar.
2. Trail Mix
A classic! The nice thing about trail mix is that there are so many different variations, so just about anyone can find a version that suits their preferences.
3. Roasted Chickpeas
These little balls of protein are a great source of quick energy! You can even get them in flavours like sea salt and lime.
4. Popcorn
As long as you have a microwave in the office (or a stovetop, really), you should consider stocking up on some popcorn. This whole-grain food is a good source of fibre and low in calories, especially if you skip out on the butter.
5. Raw Almonds
Not only are raw almonds sugar- and salt-free, but they are also full of healthy fats, protein, fibre, and magnesium. Perfect for when you need an extra boost of energy in the afternoon.
6. Seaweed-Based Snacks
Okay, so this one may not sound particularly great, but don’t knock it till you try it! Dehydrated seaweed snacks are actually becoming quite popular in the plant-based food world. They are low in calories and fat- and sugar-free, so if you’re in the mood for something different then you may want to give these salty snacks a chance.
7. Fresh Fruit and Vegetables
You can’t get more plant-based than these! Fruits and vegetables are, of course, full of various nutrients, and they can be eaten in so many different ways. Dip ‘em, cook ‘em, eat ‘em raw, throw ‘em in a smoothie…the choices and flavour combinations are practically endless!
8. Dried Fruit
Dried fruit is listed separately from the fresh fruits because they are not quite as nutritious, but they can still be a yummy plant-based option. This may be at least partly due to their high sugar content, but hey, they’re still better for you than candy!
9. Vegan Dark Chocolate
If you’re looking for a healthy, plant-based version of what is usually an unhealthy favourite, then consider picking up some vegan dark chocolate. It has to be dark chocolate if you want those nutrients, though, and the darker the better. In fact, according to research, higher-percentage dark chocolate typically contains more nutrients and antioxidants than their lower-percentage counterparts.
10. Single-Serving Packs of Nut Butter and Crackers
You may not want to keep a full jar of peanut butter at the office (you just KNOW that someone will stick their fingers in there!), so consider picking up some individual packs instead. Pair these with some whole grain crackers, and you’ve got a healthy, delicious, plant-based snack on your hands.
