Snacks and Chips Brands to Avoid in 2024: A Guide to Healthier Choices

Why Many Popular Snacks and Chips Fall Short of Health Standards

The snack aisles in UK supermarkets are packed with options, but a closer look at ingredient labels reveals why many brands deserve a second thought. In 2024, growing consumer awareness around ultra-processed foods has highlighted key concerns with several leading snack and chip brands. The main issues revolve around excessive sodium, unhealthy fats, and artificial additives.

According to the UK government's dietary guidelines, adults should consume no more than 6g of salt per day. Yet a single 40g bag of some popular crisps can contain over 0.6g of salt—10% of your daily allowance. Many brands also use palm oil or hydrogenated vegetable oils, which are high in saturated and trans fats. The British Heart Foundation warns that trans fats raise LDL cholesterol and increase heart disease risk.

Artificial flavourings, sweeteners, and preservatives are another red flag. While individually approved by the Food Standards Agency (FSA), their cumulative effect in a diet high in processed snacks is a growing public health concern. The NHS advises limiting foods with long lists of unrecognisable ingredients.

Key Red Flags in Snack and Chip Brands for 2024

High Sodium and Hidden Salt

Many leading crisp brands use salt not just for taste but as a preservative. Check the "per 100g" column on nutrition labels. A product with more than 1.5g of salt per 100g is considered high in salt by NHS standards. Some cheese- and bacon-flavoured snacks can exceed 2g per 100g, making them a poor choice for daily consumption.

Unhealthy Fats and Oils

Hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated oils are still found in some budget and own-label snack brands. These are a direct source of artificial trans fats. The UK has strict limits, but products with less than 0.5g per serving can still be labelled "0g trans fat." Always scan for "hydrogenated" in the ingredients list.

Artificial Additives and Flavour Enhancers

Monosodium glutamate (MSG) and disodium inosinate are common in flavoured snacks. While the FSA considers them safe, some consumers report sensitivity. More concerning are artificial colours like Sunset Yellow (E110) and Quinoline Yellow (E104), which have been linked to hyperactivity in children. The NHS advises parents to limit these additives.

Hidden Sugars in "Healthy" Snacks

Many snacks marketed as "baked," "low-fat," or "natural" compensate for reduced fat with added sugars. Look for terms like dextrose, maltodextrin, and fruit concentrate. A "low-fat" cereal bar can contain as much sugar as a chocolate bar. The NHS recommends free sugars should make up no more than 5% of daily energy intake.

How to Identify Better Snack Choices at the Supermarket

Making healthier choices doesn't require giving up snacks entirely. Follow these actionable steps when shopping in UK stores:

• Check the ingredient list first: Look for whole foods like potatoes, corn, chickpeas, or lentils as the first ingredient. Avoid products where oil, sugar, or salt appear in the top three.
• Choose better cooking methods: Air-popped, baked, or roasted snacks generally have less fat than deep-fried options. Compare the "of which saturates" line on the label.
• Prioritise fibre and protein: Snacks with at least 3g of fibre and 5g of protein per serving help maintain satiety. Legume-based crisps and seed crackers are good options.
• Watch portion sizes: Many "sharing bags" contain 2-3 servings. Weigh out a single portion (usually 25-30g) rather than eating from the bag.
• Look for official endorsements: Products carrying the NHS's "Eat Well" guide or the "Green" label on front-of-pack traffic light systems are generally better choices.

Simple Homemade Alternatives to Shop-Bought Snacks

One of the most effective ways to avoid problematic ingredients is to make your own snacks. This gives you full control over salt, fat, and additive content. Try these quick ideas:

• Oven-baked kale chips: Toss kale leaves with a teaspoon of olive oil and a pinch of sea salt. Bake at 180°C for 10-12 minutes.
• Spiced chickpeas: Drain canned chickpeas, toss with smoked paprika and cumin, then roast until crispy.
• Nut and seed mixes: Combine unsalted almonds, pumpkin seeds, and dried apple pieces for a portable snack.
• Vegetable sticks with hummus: Carrot, cucumber, and pepper sticks provide crunch without the additives.

Final Guidance for Smarter Snacking in 2024

Being an informed shopper is your best defence against unhealthy snack and chip brands. Always read nutrition labels, prioritise whole ingredients, and be sceptical of marketing claims like "natural" or "low-fat." If you have specific dietary concerns or medical conditions, consult your GP or a registered dietitian for personalised advice. The government's NHS Eatwell Guide provides free, evidence-based resources to help you build a balanced diet that can include occasional treats without compromising your health.