As we age, our dietary needs change, but our love for snacking remains constant. In fact, snacking is more than just a pastime for many of us—it's a daily ritual.

With over 90% of Americans reaching for a snack at least once a day, it's clear that our snack choices can significantly impact our overall health.

For those of us over 60, finding the balance between indulgence and nutrition is key to maintaining vitality and enjoying our golden years to the fullest.



With nearly a third of Americans regularly walking through Costco's doors, it's the perfect place to discover snacks that are not only delicious but also nutritious.

Before we dive into the snack aisle, let's define what makes a snack truly healthy. The criteria are straightforward:

- Wholesome ingredients are a must, such as whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins.
- Keep it under 200 calories per serving to manage energy intake.
- Look for snacks that offer beneficial nutrients like protein, vitamins, minerals, fiber, or phytonutrients.
- Limit added sugars to no more than 10 grams (2.5 teaspoons) per serving.

Let's explore 14 dietitian-approved Costco snacks that will make healthy eating both effortless and enjoyable.



1. Kirkland Microwave Popcorn

• Nutrition (Per cup of popped popcorn)
• Calories: 35
• Fat: 2.5 g (Saturated Fat: 1 g)
• Sodium: 65 mg
• Carbs: 3 g (Fiber: 0 g, Sugar: 2 g)
• Protein: 0 g

At just 35 calories per serving, this whole grain snack is a powerhouse of antioxidants and fiber.

Enjoy a generous three-cup serving for a mere 105 calories and savor the satisfaction without the guilt.

2. Chomps Original Beef Snacks

• Nutrition (Per 1-ounce stick):
• Calories: 100
• Fat: 7 g (Saturated Fat: 3 g)
• Sodium: 380 mg
• Carbs: 0 g (Fiber: 0 g, Sugar: 0 g)
• Protein: 10 g

Grass-fed beef is the star of this protein-packed snack. With 100 calories and 10 grams of protein per stick, these shelf-stable beef snacks are perfect for on-the-go nourishment.



3. Skinny Pop Popcorn

• Nutrition (Per .65-ounce bag):
• Calories: 100
• Fat: 7 g (Saturated Fat: .5 g)
• Sodium: 50 mg
• Carbs: 10 g (Fiber: 2 g, Sugar: 0 g)
• Protein: 1 g

Individually packaged for convenience, Skinny Pop offers a 100-calorie snack that's 100% whole grain, fiber-rich, and free of added sugars. It's the perfect crunchy treat for any time of day.

4. Nature's Garden Organic Trail Mix Snack Packs

• Nutrition (Per 1.2 -ounce package/Organic Cranberry Health Mix):
• Calories: 170
• Fat: 12 g (Saturated Fat: 1.5 g)
• Sodium: 0 mg
• Carbs: 13 g (Fiber: 2 g, Sugar: 9 g)
• Protein: 5 g

These single-serve packs come in three heart-healthy varieties, each brimming with a mix of nuts and dried fruits. They're a fantastic source of plant-based omega-3 fatty acids, essential for maintaining a healthy heart and sharp mind.



5. Wonderful Pistachios No Shells Variety Pack

• Nutrition (Per .75-ounce single-serve package/Roasted & Salted):
• Calories: 120
• Fat: 10 g (Saturated Fat: 1 g)
• Sodium: 105 mg
• Carbs: 6 g (Fiber: 2 g, Sugar: 2 g)
• Protein: 5 g

Pistachios are a complete protein, and these no-shell packs make it easy to enjoy 5 grams of this plant-based nutrient. The portion-controlled packs also offer a satisfying blend of unsaturated fats and protein to keep you full longer.

6. Kirkland Organic Hummus Single-Serving Cups

• Nutrition (Per 2.5-ounce cup):
• Calories: 170
• Fat: 13 g (Saturated Fat: 1.5 g)
• Sodium: 290 mg
• Carbs: 11 g (Fiber: 3 g, Sugar: 1 g)
• Protein: 4 g

Pair these convenient cups of creamy hummus with fresh veggies for a fiber and protein-rich snack that's both satisfying and beneficial for blood sugar control and appetite management.



7. Kirkland Sunsweet Dried Plums

• Nutrition (Per 1.5 ounces):
• Calories: 100
• Fat: 0g (Saturated Fat: 0 g)
• Sodium: 0 mg
• Carbs: 24 g (Fiber: 3 g, Sugar: 14 g)
• Protein: 1 g

Dried plums, or prunes, are not only rich in fiber but also packed with phytonutrients that support heart and bone health. These shelf-stable snacks are naturally sweet and free of added sugars.

8. BelVita Banana, Dark Chocolate and Sunflower Seed Energy Snack Bites

• Nutrition (Per 1 ounce pouch):
• Calories: 120
• Fat: 4.5g (Saturated Fat: 1 g)
• Sodium: 105 mg
• Carbs: 21 g (Fiber: 3 g, Sugar: 8 g)
• Protein: 2g

With whole grains and fiber, these snack bites are a tasty and convenient option for sustained energy throughout the day. Choose from two delightful flavors to keep your taste buds happy.



9. That's It Mini Fruit Bars

• Nutrition (Per .7-ounce bar):
• Calories: 60
• Fat: 0g (Saturated Fat: 0 g)
• Sodium: 15 mg
• Carbs: 12 g (Fiber: 2 g, Sugar: 10 g)
• Protein: 0g

These bars are simplicity at its best, made with only two ingredients and no added sugars. They're a fantastic alternative to fresh fruit when you're on the move. They come in the flavors strawberry, mango, and blueberry.

10. Kirkland Organic Hard-Boiled Eggs

• Nutrition (Per 1 egg):
• Calories: 68
• Fat: 4g (Saturated Fat: 1.5 g)
• Sodium: 60 mg
• Carbs: 0 g (Fiber: 0 g, Sugar: 0 g)
• Protein: 6g

Eggs are a gold standard of protein, and these pre-cooked, peel-free eggs are a hassle-free way to enjoy all the essential amino acids and nutrients eggs have to offer.



11. Pure Protein Bars

• Nutrition (Per 1 bar):
• Calories: 180
• Fat: 4.5 g (Saturated Fat: 3.5 g)
• Sodium: 90 mg
• Carbs: 17 g (Fiber: 2 g, Sugar: 3 g)
• Protein: 21g

For those following a low-carb lifestyle, these bars are a dream come true. Packed with protein and low in added sugars, they're a great choice for curbing hunger between meals.

12. Kirkland Organic Signature Applesauce

• Nutrition (Per 3-ounce pouch):
• Calories: 45
• Fat: 0 g (Saturated Fat: 0 g)
• Sodium: 0 mg
• Carbs: 10 g (Fiber: 0 g, Sugar: 8 g)
• Protein: 0g

This unsweetened applesauce is a simple and delicious way to incorporate fruit into your diet. It's rich in vitamin C and potassium, with no added sugars.



13. Kirkland Chewy Peanut Butter & Semisweet Chocolate Chip Protein Bar

• Nutrition (Per 1 bar):
• Calories: 190
• Fat: 11 g (Saturated Fat: 3 g)
• Sodium: 120 mg
• Carbs: 16 g (Fiber: 6 g, Sugar: 6 g)
• Protein: 10g

With a balanced mix of protein and fiber, this protein bar is a filling and tasty snack that rivals more expensive brands. The protein comes from peanuts, isolated soy protein and milk powder.

14. Chobani Less Sugar Greek Yogurt, Variety Pack

• Nutrition (Per 5.3 oz cup):
• Calories: 120
• Fat: 3 g (Saturated Fat: 1.5 g)
• Sodium: 50 mg
• Carbs: 11 g (Fiber: <1 g, Sugar: 9 g)
• Protein: 12g

Packed with protein and probiotics, this Greek yogurt is a creamy delight that keeps added sugars to a minimum while offering a variety of flavors to enjoy – Ripe Strawberry, Madagascar Vanilla & Cinnamon, Wild Blueberry, and Harvest Raspberry.


What are your go-to healthy snacks? Do you have any tips for making snack time both nutritious and delicious? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!