Let’s be honest, most of us need a little snack to get us through the day. According to the National Institute of Health, more than 90 percent of Americans eat at least one snack on any given day. For that reason, snacks are big business: in 2025, the US market sits at more than $53 billion in value.
Not all snacks are the same. While some can benefit our health, others are purely for enjoyment (and honestly, that’s okay). Below, we’ve gathered a list of some of our favorite indulgent, processed snacks (Pringles, Takis, Oreos, Pop-Tarts, you get the drift) that you’ll find in most supermarkets, but we’ve also thrown in some healthy favorites for balance (fruit jerky, nuts, edamame beans, etc). And, we’ve also got snacks that sit in the middle—they’re processed, but they’re still a great source of nutrients.
But before we get to the list (number 11 is one of Leonardo DiCaprio’s favorites, by the way), here’s a little more about snacking and how to do it right—according to diet experts, anyway.
Are snacks always bad for you?
Research suggests that in the US, the food supply consists of more than 70 percent ultra-processed foods. Most snacks on the market fall into the ultra-processed category, which means they contain multiple ingredients, including artificial additives, preservatives, and flavor enhancers. Some might call them “junk food”—think of products like Doritos and Pringles, for example.
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On the surface, this doesn’t sound great—especially when you consider that some research links excessive ultra-processed food consumption to issues like heart disease and cognitive decline. However, many experts have called for more nuance on the subject of ultra-processed foods.
Firstly: they’re not all created equal. Some foods, like fortified yogurts, for example, fall into the ultra-processed category, but they also provide us with beneficial nutrients, like calcium and B vitamins. It’s the same with protein bars and store-bought hummus, for example. Both are processed snack foods, but both also have something to offer in terms of nutrition.
“Foods classed as ultra-processed which are high in fat, salt and/or sugar should be avoided, but a number of ultra-processed foods are not,” Eric Robinson PhD, of the University of Liverpool, who released a paper on this topic last year, said in a statement.
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Sapna Peruvemba, MS, RDN recently clarified to VegNews that snacks to watch out for “are those calorie-heavy, nutrient-light foods that leave you hungry for more. Chips, candy, soda—you know the drill.” These foods typically undergo extensive processing to modify their texture, taste, and shelf life, making them highly palatable and convenient but often nutritionally poor.
But even with these foods, if you’re snacking on them every now and again, this is unlikely to do you major harm. Peruvemba added: “Sometimes we just want a treat. The key is to indulge mindfully.” After all, these foods can give us other positives aside from nutrition. We don’t just eat for health reasons, but also for pleasure, comfort, and connection.
“Pleasure of any kind, including pleasure from food, leads to a release of dopamine in the brain,” Aleta Storch, RDN, MHC told Healthline. “Dopamine is often referred to as the ‘feel good hormone’ because it activates the reward pathways in the brain, which helps to promote happiness, calmness, motivation, and focus.”
The best indulgent vegan snacks, from Pringles to crackers to fruit jerky
Below, we’ve included a mix of our favorite vegan snacks, from indulgent potato chips to healthier options such as dark chocolate almonds and roasted chickpeas. Ready to get snacking? Let’s dig in.
Chips, pretzels, and popcorn
Richard Bowie
1 Pringles
Pringles have long been a firm favorite in the snacking game thanks to their stackable design and range of addictive flavors. While most Pringle varieties contain dairy, the Originals are vegan. Enjoy them as they are or mix them with your favorite homemade dip— we love this vegan garlicky chickpea avocado hummus, for example, or this garlic herbed three-bean dip.
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2 Takis
A popular American snack with Mexican roots, Takis are known for their intense crunch and fiery spice. Some flavors contain dairy, but varieties like Fuego are vegan-friendly. For more on the history of Takis, check out our guide here (it also includes plenty of other vegan spicy snack suggestions).
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3 Doritos
Doritos are loved all over the US (and indeed, the world). While many varieties contain dairy, the Spicy Sweet Chili flavor is vegan, offering a nice balance of heat and sweetness. They’re tasty as they are, but for balance, we recommend enjoying them alongside one of our favorite healthy dips (this black bean dip is delicious and easy to make).
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4 Fritos
A classic since the 1930s, Fritos are one of the simplest chip options on the market—made with just corn, oil, and salt. The mild, slightly nutty flavor of its Original flavor (which is vegan) makes it the perfect canvas for a variety of dips, from creamy guacamole and hummus to spicy salsa and queso (which you can make with plants). Whether enjoyed straight from the bag, sprinkled over chili, or used in a classic Frito pie, these chips continue to stand the test of time as a go-to salty snack.
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5 Ruffles
If you prefer a ridged chip, Ruffles is likely already a go-to. This popular brand has been supplying Americans with lots of thick-cut, crunchy goodness for decades. While many flavors include dairy, the Original variety is vegan, made simply from potatoes, oil, and salt.
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6 Lay’s
Lay’s (known as Walkers in the UK) is one of the biggest names in the chip world. The brand, known for its distinctly thin, crispy, salty chips, has many different flavors, but you can always count on the Classic variety if you want a quick vegan snack. Other vegan-friendly options include Salt & Vinegar and BBQ, too.
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7 Snyder’s of Hanover Jalapeño Pretzel Pieces
Snyder’s is known for its bold-flavored sourdough pretzel snacks, like its vegan-friendly Jalapeño Pretzel Pieces. The bite-sized, crunchy snacks pack a punch with a combination of spicy jalapeño heat and tangy seasoning. The intense flavor makes them perfect for munching on the go, enjoying with a cold drink, or even adding a crunchy twist to your favorite homemade party mix.
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8 Sunchips
Made from whole grains like corn, wheat, and brown rice, Sunchips Original variety is vegan. They’re crunchy, a little nutty, and tasty, and are lower in fat than other products in the category, making them a more wholesome chip alternative.
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9 SkinnyPop Original Popcorn
If you’re looking for a simple snack, SkinnyPop’s Original variety is vegan and made with just popcorn, sunflower oil, and salt. Bonus: popcorn is a whole grain, which makes this light, crispy snack a source of fiber, too. In fact, one serving of SkinnyPop Original Popcorn is seven percent of the recommended daily intake of fiber.
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10 Harvest Snaps Veggie Chips
If regular potato chips aren’t your thing or you’re just looking for a change, Harvest Snaps, made from whole green peas, black beans, or lentils, are a crunchy, nutritious alternative boasting five grams of protein. Several flavors, like Lightly Salted, are vegan.
11 Hippeas
With DiCaprio as a financial backer, Hippeas’ success has soared since its launch in the late 2010s. The crunchy, puffed chickpea snacks deliver the perfect balance of flavor and crunch. All of the brands’ flavors are vegan, but White Cheddar and Blazin’ Hot are two of our favorites.
Find it here
Richard Bowie
Cookies and pastries
12 Oreos
Oreos are one of the most popular snacks in the US. In fact, research suggests that in 2020, they were consumed by more than 71 million Americans. These sweet, chocolatey favorites are vegan, as the recipe is made without eggs or dairy. We recommend enjoying them with a nice chilled glass of dairy-free milk. For more information on this iconic cookie, check out our guide to Oreos here.
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13 Unfrosted Pop-Tarts
Developed in 1964, Pop-Tarts have long been a nostalgic breakfast treat for millions of Americans. While frosted varieties contain gelatin, the Unfrosted flavors (Strawberry, Blueberry, and Brown Sugar Cinnamon) are vegan. Read more on the story behind Pop-Tarts here.
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14 Nutter Butter Bites
These peanut-shaped cookies, which contain no dairy or eggs, are a popular snack for many reasons. Firstly, they’re satisfyingly crunchy, but they’re also a source of nutrients, like fiber and protein. In fact, each bag contains six grams of protein in total. Enjoy them alone or dunk them in dairy-free milk for extra indulgence.
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15 Lenny & Larry’s The Complete Cookie
This oversized, soft-baked vegan cookie from Lenny & Larry’s is a deliciously satisfying treat that doesn’t skimp on flavor or nutrition. Packed with an impressive 16 grams of plant-based protein per serving, it’s a great way to fuel up while indulging your sweet tooth. Made with rich, creamy peanut butter and generously studded with chocolate chips, each bite is soft, chewy, and loaded with sweet, nutty goodness.
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16 Lotus Biscoff Cookies
Originally created in Belgium in 1932, these vegan-friendly spiced caramelized biscuits are now popular all over the world, including in the US. Known for their warm, aromatic blend of cinnamon and brown sugar, they have a crisp and crunchy texture that makes them irresistibly satisfying. Their deep, caramelized flavor pairs exceptionally well with a hot cup of tea or coffee.
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Crackers
17 Ritz crackers
Ritz crackers may be famous for their rich, buttery taste, but surprisingly, there’s no dairy in the recipe. Instead, their signature light, flaky texture comes from a blend of vegetable oils, making them a completely vegan-friendly snack. These classic crackers have a slightly salty, melt-in-your-mouth quality and are delicious paired with vegan cheese, dipped into hummus, spread with peanut butter, or enjoyed straight from the box.
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18 Nabisco Triscuit Crackers Baked Whole Grain Wheat
If you’re looking for something a little healthier, Triscuits are simple yet hearty crackers made from just whole wheat, oil, and salt. These crackers are particularly tasty with a generous serving of homemade guacamole. Plus, they contain 11 percent of the recommended daily intake of fiber.
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19 Nabisco Original Grahams
Graham crackers have an interesting history that dates all the way back to the 1800s (you can read more about that here). While many brands add honey, Nabisco Original Grahams are vegan. They’re great for snacking, s’mores, or crumbling into desserts or plant-based yogurt.
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20 Wheat Thins
Launched in 1947 by Nabisco, Wheat Thins are savory, a little nutty, and satisfyingly crunchy. Many varieties are vegan, including Original, Basil, and Sundried Tomato & Basil. Enjoy them straight out of the packet or with your favorite vegan cheese.
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21 BelVita Crunchy Breakfast Biscuits
Designed for sustained energy, BelVita biscuits are made with whole grains and offer both protein and fiber, making them a solid choice for a breakfast-time snack. While some flavors contain dairy, the Cinnamon Brown Sugar and Golden Oat varieties are vegan. They’re especially tasty with nut butter—find some of our recommendations here.
Find it here
Richard Bowie
Chocolate and energy bars
22 Lindt Vegan Chocolate
Swiss chocolatier Lindt, which is known for its smooth, rich chocolate, has many vegan options. While plenty of its dark chocolate bars are dairy-free, the brand also now offers a range of creamy indulgent oat milk truffles and chocolate bars. These plant-based treats deliver the same velvety texture and deep cocoa flavor that Lindt is known for, perfect for anyone seeking a delicious, dairy-free chocolate option.
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23 Nature Valley Crunchy Granola Bars
Nature Valley has long been a go-to brand for crunchy, satisfying snacks, and its Pecan Granola Bars are no exception. These vegan-friendly bars are packed with hearty whole grains, offering a delicious combination of crisp texture and nutty sweetness. Each pack provides around 22 grams of whole grains per serving, making them a great source of long-lasting energy.
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24 Clif Bars
Clif Bars are a staple for athletes and adventurers, sure, but they’re also a great everyday snack. Most flavors, like Chocolate Chip and Chocolate Brownie, are vegan—they’re the perfect combination of delicious and nutritious. In fact, one Chocolate Chip Clif Bar contains five grams of fiber, which is almost 20 percent of the recommended daily intake.
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25 Larabars
Larabars focus on minimal, whole ingredients—usually just fruit, nuts, and spices. Vegan and gluten-free, these bars provide fiber and healthy fats with no added sugar. Look out for unique, tasty flavors like Cashew Cookie, Apple Pie, and Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip.
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26 Trubar Protein Bars
If you want to increase your protein but always find yourself craving sweet, dessert flavors, Trubar is for you. The brand offers plant-based protein bars with dessert-like flavors like Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough and Whipped for Key Lime. The latter contains a whopping 13 grams of fiber and 12 grams of protein, so you can get your dessert and gym gains, too.
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27 Nature’s Bakery Fig Bars
These soft-baked fig bars are inspired by the classic Fig Newtons but made with wholesome, plant-based ingredients. The whole wheat crust and real fruit in the brand’s blueberry flavor, for example, provide fiber, natural sweetness, and sustained energy. Perfect for on-the-go snacking, lunchboxes, or a quick pick-me-up, these fig bars strike the ideal balance between wholesome and indulgent.
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28 Hu Hunks Chocolate Almonds
Hu isn’t an entirely vegan brand, but it offers plenty of dairy-free options, including its Chocolate Almonds. Made with simple, high-quality ingredients like rich dark chocolate and organic almonds, these bite-sized treats deliver the perfect balance of crunch and indulgence. They’re also free from refined sugars, dairy, and artificial additives.
Find it here
Richard Bowie
Whole foods
29 Mixed nuts
Whether they feature almonds, cashews, walnuts, pistachios, or a combination of all four, mixed nuts are a protein-packed snack that delivers both flavor and nutrition. Rich in healthy fats, fiber, and essential nutrients like magnesium and vitamin E, they provide long-lasting energy and support overall well-being.
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30 Gimme Seaweed Organic Roasted Seaweed Sheets
Seaweed sheets might seem like an unconventional snack, but these roasted sheets from Gimme Organic are surprisingly tasty and light. Not only are they delicious, but they’re also packed with essential nutrients like iodine, which supports thyroid health, and omega-3 fatty acids, which promote heart and brain health. With a delicate crunch and savory, umami flavor, they make for a satisfying snack that’s unique and nutritious.
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31 Biena Roasted Chickpeas
If you’re not in the mood for potato chips, Biena’s crunchy roasted chickpeas offer a high-protein, fiber-rich alternative. Made with real chickpeas and simple seasonings, the bite-sized snacks are satisfying and tasty. Each serving contains an impressive six grams of fiber and six grams of protein.
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32 Baby carrots
Naturally sweet and crunchy, baby carrots are the perfect zero-prep, vitamin-rich snack that’s as convenient as it is nutritious. They’re ideal for pairing with your favorite dip—whether it’s creamy hummus or zesty guacamole. Packed with beta-carotene, baby carrots also support eye health and immune function.
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33 The Only Bean Crunchy Roasted Edamame Beans
These roasted edamame beans make a great alternative to nuts for those with allergies (or those who just don’t like the flavor of nuts). They’re also rich in plant-based protein and fiber. In fact, one serving contains five grams of fiber and an impressive 14 grams of protein. Not only are they nutrient-dense, but they’re also crunchy and satisfying, too.
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34 Cherry tomatoes
If you’ve got cherry tomatoes on hand, you don’t need to make a salad to enjoy them. These little gems are perfect for snacking on their own. Beyond being juicy, they’re also packed with antioxidants like lycopene, which supports heart health and helps protect against oxidative stress.
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35 Apple slices
Simple, low-effort, and refreshingly crisp, apple slices are the perfect snack for any time of day. Naturally hydrating and packed with fiber and vitamin C, they offer a sweet, guilt-free treat without any added sugar. Whether you’re looking for a light snack or a quick energy boost, apple slices hit the spot.
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36 Pepitas (pumpkin seeds)
Pepitas might be small, but they are still a pretty satisfying snack choice, especially when paired with fruit or nuts. They also have a slightly nutty flavor, and are rich in magnesium, protein, and zinc, making them a nutrient-dense snack option.
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37 Berries
Got a sweet tooth? Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries are simple, easy-to-grab snacks that are packed with antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins to support brain and heart health. Even better, they are naturally sweet and juicy.
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38 Solely Organic Pineapple Fruit Jerky
Made with just one simple ingredient—real organic pineapple—this chewy, naturally sweet fruit jerky from Solely Organic offers a burst of tropical flavor without any added sugar or preservatives. The pure, fruity taste is perfect for those seeking a healthier alternative to traditional snacks. Each serving provides fiber and a good dose of vitamin C, offering a clean, natural energy boost.
Find it here
For more about vegan snacks, read:
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