Veggie straws are a popular snack option for people who want to eat healthier. Made from various vegetables such as potatoes, spinach, and tomatoes, these crispy, crunchy snacks are often seen as a healthy alternative to traditional potato chips.
But what exactly are veggie straws, and are they really a healthier option? Let’s take a closer look at the nutrition of veggie straws to find out.
What are Veggie Straws?
Veggie straws are thin, stick-shaped snacks made from a combination of different vegetables. The vegetables used to make veggie straws are usually dehydrated or dried and then blended together to create a crispy texture.
Many brands of veggie straws also add seasonings and spices to enhance the flavor, and some even add other ingredients like rice or corn to the mix.
Veggie Straws vs Potato Chips
Compared to potato chips, veggie straws are often seen as a healthier snack option. This is because they typically contain less fat, calories, and sodium than traditional potato chips.
For example, a one-ounce serving of Sensible Portions Garden Veggie Straws contains:
- 130 calories
- 7 grams of fat
- 170 milligrams of sodium
In contrast, a one-ounce serving of regular potato chips contains:
- 160 calories
- 10 grams of fat
- 170 milligrams of sodium
As you can see, veggie straws have fewer calories and less fat than potato chips. However, it’s worth noting that they still contain sodium, which can be a concern for people who are watching their salt intake.
Nutritional Benefits of Veggie Straws
While veggie straws may not be as nutritious as eating raw vegetables, they still offer some nutritional benefits such as Fiber. Many brands of veggie straws are made with whole grains, which can help increase your fiber intake.
Vitamins and minerals: Since veggie straws are made from a variety of vegetables, they can provide a range of vitamins and minerals. For example, Sensible Portions Garden Veggie Straws contain vitamin C, iron, and potassium.
It’s worth noting, however, that the amount of fiber, vitamins, and minerals in veggie straws may vary depending on the brand and specific type of vegetable used.
Choosing The Healthiest Veggie Straws
If you’re looking to incorporate veggie straws into your diet, there are a few things to keep in mind to choose the healthiest option.
- First, check the ingredient list to see what types of vegetables are used. Look for brands that use a variety of vegetables and avoid those that use primarily potato or corn.
- Second, watch out for added sugars or artificial ingredients. Some brands of veggie straws may contain added sugar or artificial flavors, which can negate some of the health benefits.
- Lastly, pay attention to portion sizes. While veggie straws may be a healthier snack option than potato chips, it’s still important to practice portion control to avoid overeating.
Conclusion
Veggie straws can be a healthy snack alternative when consumed in moderation. They are typically lower in calories and fat than potato chips and can provide some nutritional benefits like fiber and vitamins.
To choose the healthiest option, look for brands that use a variety of vegetables, avoid added sugars or artificial ingredients, and practice portion control.
