Making Wise Choices When Selecting Crackers

Making Wise Choices When Selecting Crackers

Crackers are a popular food for snacking as well as enhancing meals.

Check the Nutrition Facts Label as well as the ingredient listing when buying crackers. Too much salt and “bad” fats can be found in some crackers.  One serving should have no more than 200 milligrams of sodium, three to six grams of fat, 1 gram of saturated fat and 0 grams of trans fat.      

Look for crackers that are labeled “whole wheat” or “whole grain.”  These products are less processed and provide more fiber and nutrients.  Whole grain flour should be one of the first three ingredients when reading the ingredient list. Look for crackers that have three to five grams of fiber per serving.

Compared to other crunchy snacks, whole grain crackers pack more satisfying crunch for the calories.  A typical serving usually has 120 to 150 calories for five to 110 calories.    

If you plan to top your crackers, look for low fat cheese options, low-fat bean dip, hummus and low-fat cream cheese.