by: Lindsay Hutton
High-fructose corn syrup (HFCS) is everywhere you look, from the breads you eat to the soft drinks you consume. HFCS has been linked to the obesity epidemic and the development of type two diabetes. Although it may seem impossible to avoid, there are foods out there that don't contain it. These 9 snacks have no HFCS added, making them a healthy choice for your family. Just remember--always read the labels yourself to make sure the product is, in fact, HFCS-free.
Apples and Cheese
As the saying goes, fruit is nature's candy. Pair a naturally sweet apple (organic if possible), with a serving of cheese, and you've got yourself a healthy snack that packs a nutritious punch of calcium, protein, and vitamins A and B.
Crackers and Peanut Butter
Many brands of peanut butter don't contain HFCS, but double-check your favorite brand's label just to be sure. Serve up a dollop with all-natural wheat crackers or Ezekiel bread, and your child will be good to go until his next meal.
Granola Bar
If you read the labels, you'll find many brands of granola bars don't contain HFCS--just stay away from any with candy pieces or any other sugar-laden ingredients.
Granola bars are portable, taste great, and the complex carbohydrates found in them will give your child the energy he needs to make it through his busy day.
Baby Carrots and Hummus
What kid doesn't love to dip? For a crunchy snack that's chock full of vitamins, and fun to eat, pair a handful of baby carrots with fiber-rich hummus.
String Cheese
All-natural string cheese is fun to eat, full of protein, easy to pack, and tastes great--see why it makes a great snack?
Check the labels to find the healthiest choice for your family, and keep it on hand the next time you need a quick snack to satisfy your hungry child.
Hard-Boiled Eggs
Eggs are an amazing source of protein, making them a great food to fill up on. And with no added ingredients, you can feel good about all of their natural benefits. Plus, your child will love peeling his own eggs. For a little extra flavor, sprinkle on some black pepper or garlic powder.
Turkey Wrap
A whole wheat tortilla filled with sliced turkey makes a quick and substantial snack for a busy day.
Fill your tortilla with your favorite veggies, or keep it plain with just turkey--as long as you read the labels, your snack will be delicious, satisfying, and free of HFCS.
Frozen Fruit Bar
If your child is looking for a sweet frozen snack, pick up a box of all-natural fruit bars, or make your own with 100% fruit juice. They'll satisfy his sweet tooth without filling him up with processed sugars.
Dried Fruit and Nuts
A trail mix of dried fruit and nuts is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, protein, and fiber. But make sure to stick with just dried fruit and nuts. Any trail mixes with pre-packaged granola or candy are more likely to have some HFCS hidden somewhere.
