When we review Snacks, we start from the numbers in the USDA database and apply the AASLD 2023 criteria consistently.
We would argue that Snacks is less about the food itself and more about how it fits into an on the whole Mediterranean pattern.
In Snacks, 87 foods are rated Recommended. These foods have low saturated fat and no added sugars. The AASLD 2023 uses saturated fat percentage, added sugar, processing level, and carb type as criteria within the Mediterranean diet framework. Top examples: Formulated Bar, South Beach Protein, Snack, Balance, Original Bar, Snacks, Soy Chips or Crisps, Salted, Snacks, Granola Bar, Kashi Tlc Bar,, Snacks, Oriental Mix, Rice-based.
Why are some snacks recommended?
These 87 foods have low saturated fat and no added sugars. The AASLD 2023 uses saturated fat, added sugar, processing, and carb type as criteria.
Examples of recommended snacks foods?
Examples: Formulated Bar, South Beach Protein, Snack, Balance, Original Bar, Snacks, Soy Chips or Crisps, Salted, Snacks, Granola Bar, Kashi Tlc Bar,, Snacks, Oriental Mix, Rice-based. Browse the food database for complete nutrition data and individual verdicts.
Can cooking change the rating?
Yes. Frying or heavy sauces can downgrade a food, while steaming or baking maintains or improves standing. The Mediterranean diet recommends olive oil.
Dietary reference only. Not medical advice. Not medical advice. Data: USDA. Guidelines: AASLD 2023.
Of the 176 foods in the Snacks group, 87 fall into the Recommended tier. On average, this tier runs about 9.3g protein and 13.5g fat per 100g, with saturated fat at roughly 17% of total fat. Representative entries include Snacks, Granola Bars, Hard, Plain and Snacks, Granola Bars, Soft, Uncoated, Peanut .
These 87 foods clear the engine's thresholds on saturated fat, added sugar, and processing, which is why they sit in the Recommended tier rather than lower.