Parents have long relied on easy, affordable snacks to keep their kids happy between meals. But in recent years, many once-affordable snacks have skyrocketed in price while offering less nutritional value. Companies have shrunk package sizes, increased sugar content, and raised prices, making these snacks less appealing for budget-conscious families. Here are 10 kids’ snacks that used to be affordable but are now overpriced junk—and some better alternatives.
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1. Lunchables
Once a convenient lunchbox staple, Lunchables have become noticeably smaller and more expensive. Prices have nearly doubled in the past few years, with some packs costing over $3 for a small portion of crackers, cheese, and processed meat. The ingredients list has also grown longer, with added preservatives and sodium. A better alternative is making your own DIY Lunchables at home with whole-grain crackers, fresh cheese, and lean deli meat.
2. Fruit Snacks
Fruit snacks were once affordable, but now they’re priced like premium candies. Many brands contain more sugar and artificial flavors than actual fruit. This makes them a questionable choice for kids. While organic versions promise better ingredients, they come at an even higher cost. Swapping fruit snacks for real fruit, like apple slices or grapes, provides a healthier and more budget-friendly alternative.
3. Goldfish Crackers
Goldfish crackers have always been a kid-favorite, but their price per ounce has steadily increased. Meanwhile, some varieties have changed recipes, incorporating more refined flours and artificial flavoring. Instead of Goldfish, whole-grain crackers or homemade cheese crisps can offer a similar taste with better nutrition.
4. Capri Sun
Capri Sun pouches used to be an affordable lunchbox drink. Now they’re more expensive while containing less juice and more sugar. Many parents have noticed that the flavors have changed, with some pouches tasting more watered down. Opting for diluted 100% fruit juice or flavored water can cut costs while reducing sugar intake.
5. Granola Bars
Granola bars were once a quick and inexpensive snack option, but many brands have added more sugar and artificial ingredients while shrinking portion sizes. Some varieties now cost over $5 per box. That price today makes them less budget-friendly. Making homemade granola bars with oats, honey, and nuts can be a healthier and more cost-effective alternative.
6. Gogurt and Flavored Yogurts
Yogurt tubes like Gogurt used to be an affordable grab-and-go snack. Price hikes have made them a pricier option for families. Many brands have also increased their sugar content while reducing portion sizes. Buying large tubs of plain yogurt and portioning it with fresh fruit is a better and cheaper choice.
7. Cheese Sticks
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Pre-packaged cheese sticks have surged in price, with some brands costing over $5 per pack. The convenience is undeniable, but buying block cheese and cutting it into snack-sized portions can provide the same benefit at a fraction of the cost.
8. Breakfast Cereal Bars
Cereal bars marketed as a “healthy” breakfast alternative are now more expensive and packed with added sugars. Despite their small size, some brands charge over $4 per box. Swapping these bars for homemade oatmeal or toast with peanut butter can be a cheaper and more filling option.
9. Microwave Popcorn
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Microwave popcorn has seen price increases, while some brands now include more artificial flavors and oils. Buying plain popcorn kernels and making stovetop popcorn is a cheaper and healthier alternative. You can also take advantage of bogo offers or pick some up at the Dollar Tree as an alternative.
10. Packaged Peanut Butter Crackers
These used to be an inexpensive, protein-packed snack, but now they come in smaller packs at higher prices. Making homemade peanut butter crackers with whole-grain crackers and natural peanut butter can provide a fresher and more cost-effective snack.
Many once-affordable kids’ snacks have become overpriced while offering less nutrition. Instead of overpaying for packaged convenience, opting for homemade or whole-food alternatives can save money while providing healthier options. Making small changes to snack choices can lead to long-term savings without sacrificing taste or convenience.
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