How we identified the highest-quality green teas:

According to Mary Sabat MS, RDN, LD, there are a few things you can look for when searching for the best green teas. To ensure your tea is of the highest quality, she says to:

• Look for organic certification to avoid pesticides and other harmful chemicals.
• Check the ingredients list to ensure there are no natural or artificial flavors added.
• Opt for whole-leaf tea, which can retain more nutrients and flavor than broken leaves or dust.
• Choose unbleached teabags to avoid potential chemical contamination from the bleaching process.

You can still get the health benefits from teas that may not meet all of these criteria, but Sabat ensures that following these guidelines will give you the safest, highest-quality green tea. For examples of trustworthy green tea brands to buy, we've put together a list of 10 high-quality green teas. Read on, then check out the 11 Highest Quality Teas on Grocery Shelves for varieties outside of just green tea.

DAVIDsTEA Organic Ceremonial Matcha

This Organic Ceremonial Matcha from DAVIDsTEA is about as clean as it can get. It is certified organic and made from the highest quality Tencha leaves from Nishio, Japan, and it's so pure that you'll find nothing in this container except for fine, stone-ground matcha powder.

DAVIDsTEA has over 15 types of matcha powders and green tea leaves, so green tea lovers can surely find the best variety for their preferences.

RELATED: 6 Best Teas To Boost Metabolism and Lose Weight

Rishi Sencha

Rishi's Sencha green tea is made from two tea bush cultivars—Saemidori and Okumidori—that are harvested from organic Japanese farms. Rishi sources all of its teas directly from farmers, guaranteeing quality and traceability.

This tea is made with the "Chumushi" process, which steams the green tea leaves for a moderate amount of time, bringing out the bold, umami flavors of the Sencha. All of Rishi's teas are USDA-certified organic and the sachets are biodegradable and plant-based.

Numi Green Tea

"Plain and simple, Numi Green Tea is nothing but organic, loose-leaf tea," says Sabat. "There are no additives or flavors but the tea itself is said to have a full-bodied, rich flavor."

When looking for green teas, you can choose from their Gunpowder Green, which is their regular green tea rolled into pearls, or their Jasmine Tea, which comes in leaf or pearl form. Either way, you're getting a high-quality green tea.

RELATED: Here's How Much Green Tea You Should Drink Every Day To Lose Weight

Yogi Green Tea Super Antioxidant

"Yogi Green Tea Super Antioxidant Tea is crafted to deliver a potent blend of antioxidants, promoting overall health and vitality," says Sabat. "This unique infusion combines Green Tea with Grapeseed Extract and harnesses their natural antioxidant properties for enhanced well-being."

This tea is also infused with organic lemongrass, licorice, and jasmine green tea. Sabat adds, "With additional organic ingredients like Alfalfa, Burdock, and Dandelion roots, this tea provides comprehensive support for detoxification and rejuvenation."

RELATED: Here's How Many Cups of Tea You Should Drink Daily To Slow Aging

Traditional Medicinals Green Teas

You can trust Traditional Medicinals as a tea company that sources "only organic, high-quality teas without any artificial or natural flavors and ensures that their teas maintain purity and authenticity," says Sabat.

And if you're looking for green tea specifically, they have a variety to choose from like Matcha, Lemongrass, Ginger, Peppermint, and Dandelion. Sabat says, "With Traditional Medicinals, consumers can trust that every sip of their green tea contributes to their overall health and well-being."

The Republic of Tea Organic Detox SuperGreen Tea Bags

Another shining green tea is the Organic Detox SuperGreen Tea from the Republic of Tea, which is a blend of Japanese matcha, green tea, chlorella, green apple, and mint.

"Unlike traditional green tea, where the leaves are steeped in hot water and then discarded, matcha involves finely ground green tea leaves that are whisked directly into water, creating a vibrant green beverage," says Sabat. "Not only is this matcha tea from Republic of Tea itself organic, but the unbleached tea bags ensure no harmful chemicals leach into the brew during steeping," says Sabat.

Sabat also notes that "Packed with the antioxidant power of matcha and chlorella, this blend offers a myriad of health benefits, including detoxification and digestive support."

RELATED: 6 Teas That Burn Belly Fat

Pukka Supreme Matcha Green Tea

Pukka is another trustworthy tea company selling sustainably sourced, organic tea bags and loose-leaf teas that come from "practitioner-grade" herbs.

We love their Supreme Matcha Green Tea, which is a blend of matcha powder and three different types of green tea leaves, giving you as much antioxidant-rich green tea as possible in one cup. Pukka also offers a Lean Matcha Green Tea, which is made with cinnamon, oolong, and fennel, and a Clean Matcha Green Tea, made with dandelion, fennel, licorice, and lemon myrtle.

Four Sigmatic Matcha

For something a little different, we love the Matcha Latte Mix from Four Sigmatic.

"Featuring dairy-free organic coconut powder and organic matcha tea, this matcha latte mix presents a creamy texture and a rich, authentic flavor," says Sabat. "Additionally, the inclusion of organic lion's mane and moringa powder adds health-enhancing properties, enriching the latte with vital nutrients."

Sabat also adds, "With low sugar and caffeine content, this latte provides a guilt-free indulgence while offering a boost of energy and focus."

Mighty Leaf

Another trustworthy green tea that Sabat recommends is the Organic Green Dragon from Mighty Leaf.

"Longjing Dragonwell green tea, cultivated organically and prepared using traditional wok-firing techniques, presents a distinct chestnut-like taste and an enchanting fragrance, making it an excellent option for those who appreciate flavorful green teas and value organic farming practices," says Sabat.

If you're more into teas with a bit of flavor, you can try one of their other green tea varieties like their Spring Jasmine, Marrakesh Mint, or Green Tea Tropical.

Leaves of Leisure Bath Time Tea

A high-quality green tea you can drink as you're winding down for the night, Leaves of Leisure Bath Time Tea is everything you could want in a nighttime beverage. It's made with green tea, lemongrass, tangerine, rosemary, and sage leaves, and all of its ingredients are sourced from China, India, Turkey, and Thailand.

Every variety of tea from Leaves of Leisure is certified organic, vegan, kosher, part of the Ethical Tea Partnership, and are completely free of any additives.

RELATED: 7 Best Teas To Drink for a Longer Life

Whole Foods Organic Green Tea

For a simple green tea bag that you can trust, we love the Whole Foods Organic Green Tea. It's certified USDA organic, non-GMO, kosher, and vegan, and there are no other ingredients except for the organic green tea leaves. This tea also has a Rainforest Alliance certification, meaning it's a sustainably sourced product you can feel good about consuming.

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The post The 11 Highest-Quality Green Teas On Grocery Shelves appeared first on Eat This Not That.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) both have dedicated pages on their websites where they frequently publish new recall notices. But unless you make a point of checking both government-run sites daily, it's very possible that you could entirely miss a food safety warning that pertains to something in your own pantry—especially if it doesn't make major news headlines.

So, to keep consumers up to date on which food products they should avoid, we've rounded up seven major food recalls that every American consumer should know about right now. We will be continuously updating this story with the latest recalls as they are announced throughout 2024, so be sure to bookmark this page and check back for the latest.

Dozens of dairy products

The most widespread and attention-grabbing recall of 2024 so far centers around a California-based dairy producer, Rizo-López Foods. Earlier this month, the company recalled dozens of its cheese, yogurt, and sour cream products that may have been contaminated with Listeria, which can cause foodborne illness. The products were sold under a variety of brands at many major grocery chains, including Walmart, Sam's Club, and Whole Foods.

The recall was later expanded with additional products from other major retailers like Trader Joe's, Costco, H-E-B, and Alberston's. The FDA has compiled the names, photos, and all other relevant information about the recalled items on a dedicated page on its website.

It urged any consumers who still have these items at home to refrain from consuming them and discard them immediately. It also suggested carefully cleaning and sanitizing any surfaces that the recalled products came in contact with to mitigate the risk of infection.

RELATED: 9 Highest-Protein Yogurts on Grocery Store Shelves

Trader Joe's Chicken, Lentil & Caramelized Onion Pilaf

Just a couple of weeks after Trader Joe's debuted its new Chicken, Lentil & Caramelized Onion Pilaf, the retailer pulled it from shelves after discovering that it may contain "foreign material"—specifically, rocks.

Trader Joe's instructed anyone who purchased the recalled frozen item to either discard it or return it to one of its stores for a full refund. Customers with additional questions can contact Trader Joe's by phone at (626) 599-3817 or submit a query through the company's website.

Hormel Spiced Ham

On Feb. 3, Hormel Foods issued a recall for roughly 945 pounds of ready-to-eat spiced deli ham that may have been contaminated with milk, an undeclared allergen. The recalled meat was distributed to retailers in Pennsylvania, which sliced the ham in their deli sections for purchase by consumers.

The recall applies to five-pound packages labeled "Hormel Spiced Ham With Natural Juices" with the lot code 051424. But while the product was originally packaged in this manner, consumers may have purchased the ham in a different type of packaging after it was sliced by the deli sections at their local stores.

The FSIS urged delis against continuing to serve the ham and instructed any customers with milk allergies who purchased it to either return it or throw it away. No adverse reactions have been reported in connection to the product.

RELATED: 17 Grocery Items You Should Always Buy Frozen, According to Experts

Banh Ba Xa and Banh Pia products

On Feb. 23, the California-based company LQNN Inc. recalled a dozen varieties of packaged pia cakes, a Vietnamese-Chinese treat featuring a pastry crust that can contain a variety of different soft fillings. The cakes (most of which were sold under the Saigon Gourmet brand) may contain undeclared egg, which poses a risk to people with allergies.

The recalled items were distributed in more than 30 U.S. states and Canada. While no illnesses have been reported to date, consumers who purchased them are being urged to return them for a full refund. The recall only affects products with certain best-by dates and lot numbers, all of which are listed on the notice posted on the FDA's site.

Don Novo & Son meat products

The Florida-based meat producer Don Novo & Son recalled more than 9,000 pounds of ready-to-eat meat products in mid-February. The reason? They may have been contaminated with Listeria.

The FSIS recall announcement revealed that a sample of the company's products tested positive for Listeria, though no confirmed illnesses have been reported to date. The recall applies to the following five items, which were sold at retailers in Florida:

• Don Novo Fully Cooked Chorizo
• Don Novo Smoked Pork Ribs
• Don Novo Smoked Pork Loin
• Don Novo Sweet Cooked Ham
• Don Novo Cuban Brand Mortadella

Only packages of specific sizes and with certain expiration dates are being recalled. Customers who purchased one of these ready-to-eat meats can find all of that information and label pictures on the recall notice. The recalled products should be discarded or returned for a refund.

RELATED: 10 Highest-Quality Cooking Oils on Grocery Shelves

Golden Owl Dried Mango

Though not technically a recall, a Pennsylvania-based supplier has issued an allergy alert for its Golden Owl Dried Mango, which was distributed nationwide in retail stores. While the alert was initially announced in late January, the company released an updated alert on Feb. 16 to correct the product packaging size.

The dried mango may contain undeclared sulfites, which could pose a health risk to people with allergies or sensitivities to sulfites. It was sold in seven-ounce clear plastic containers with the universal product code (UPC) of 816710-024461.

While no illnesses have been reported to date, consumers are being urged to return the recalled item to the place of purchase for a full refund.

Fratelli Beretta Antipasto charcuterie products

Proceed with caution if you get the urge to snack on any charcuterie. In mid-February, Fratelli Beretta recalled several charcuterie products that may have been under-processed, which means they could have been contaminated with foodborne pathogens.

The recalled meats were sold under several brand names and distributed nationwide to major retailers like Costco, Aldi, and Sam's Club. All of the affected items have the establishment number "EST. M47967 or M7543B" printed on the front of the package or inside the USDA mark of inspection. Consumers can view the full list of recalled products and photos of their packaging here. Anyone who purchased the items should discard them or return them to the place of purchase for a refund.

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The post 7 Major Food Recalls You Need to Know About Right Now appeared first on Eat This Not That.

Whoever came up with the idea to load the creamy and universally admired comfort dish into crisped, bite-sized pockets is a snack-time genius. And now, many different stores and brands offer versions of the tidbits.

Before you go out to the store and pick up the first box you lock eyes on, though, check out the results of this survey to see which options came across as the absolute cheesiest and which also strike a proper balance of crispy breading to tender noodles. Each munchable bite was cooked per the brand's instructions in the oven to level the playing field, and I brought no preconceived opinions to this taste test.

Giant Eagle Mac 'N Cheese Bites

Giant Eagle locations are not widespread—confined to five states, mainly Ohio and Pennsylvania. But, the chain greatly impacts these areas and is one of my favorite places to shop. I've spent a great deal of time in the store's frozen foods aisle, cold and contemplating which munchy to grab for the game or my own snacking needs.

I'd never reached for Giant Eagle's store brand Mac 'N Cheese Bites. They claim to be "restaurant-style," and although the box depicts a small bowl of marinara sauce for dipping, the bites are served solo. A box of 12 cost me a reasonable $3.29.

The look: Triangular-shaped but with a batter coating that makes them resemble McDonald's chicken nuggets. The innards are a pale orange, and the macaroni noodles aren't overly cheesy.

The taste: These bites are one of the few Giant Eagle products that disappoint me. The inner mac and cheese portion tasted solely of cheddar cheese and was watery. To make matters worse, much of the cheesiness comes from powder, sauce mix, and a combination of natural and artificial flavorings.  Yellow No. 5 and No. 6 dyes are thrown in to create that more appealing coloring. The outer casing comes with its laundry list of problems, among them being more chewy than crispy.

RELATED: 14 Best Frozen Appetizers at Costco Right Now

Feel Good Foods Three Cheese Mac & Cheese Bites

Feel Good Foods Mac & Cheese Bites are bursting with yellow cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan. The recipe comes from the minds of a restauranteur and a chef who came together to create a lineup of gluten-free foods. The bites can be bought online through retailers such as the Gluten-Free Mall or Thrive Market. They can also be found at grocers like Whole Foods, Fresh Thyme Market, and at my local Meijer, where I grabbed a box that hadn't yet been made over in the company's new bright yellow packaging. Each 12-count is typically priced at $6.89 at the chain, but you can expect to pay more when ordering online.

The look: Uniformly sphere-shaped with a crumbly outer crust. Most pieces split open during the baking process, revealing bright carrot-colored contents. The shade is less natural than the picture on the box.

The taste: These bites come out of the oven with a nice crunch. But, they cool off rapidly, losing all that great texture and even turning to the dry side. This could be because there are more noodles than cheese. As I munched, I noticed a mustard flavor, and, sure enough, mustard powder was an included ingredient—one that I would have traded for another helping of cheese.

RELATED: 9 Best Trader Joe's Appetizers, According to Our Editors

Louisa White Cheddar Toasted Mac & Cheese

Louisa does macaroni and cheese bites differently. The company's goal is to be a leader in frozen pasta. This mission carries over into its line of appetizers, including Toasted Mac & Cheese. The means the products outer husk is pasta rather than a breading blanket. The bites also include white cheddar cheese instead of yellow cheddar and ricotta and mozzarella. On the back of the $5.09 box, you can also find a recipe for a yummy pizzaioli sauce for pairing. I gave them a fair shot by themselves.

The look: Flat and disc-shaped. They look like fried ravioli. The color of the mac and cheese is closer to white or cream rather than orange or yellow. They're not overly stuffed.

The taste: There's a decent amount of cheese but not enough mac. The inside is creamy and cheesy—likely due to the added ricotta–but the specific notes of cheddar and mozzarella aren't obvious, making it a little bland. It seems like there are hardly any noodles. I did enjoy the pasta exterior. The edges crisped perfectly in the oven and their sturdiness makes them easy to eat and dip.

RELATED: 14 Best & Worst Frozen Appetizers You Can Buy, Say Dietitians

Stouffer's Bite-Fulls Classic Mac & Cheese Bites

When I think of Stouffer's, I picture ready-to-bake, family-size lasagnas. But, the brand's other claim to fame is its frozen macaroni and cheese—it claims to be America's No. 1 in this department. The dish is served in many different ways, including in a Mac & Cheese Bites form, where the classic recipe is encased in a crispy breading. They are part of the brand's Bite-Fulls line and use real cheddar. A heftier–sized container of the appetizer, with 15 total pieces, costs $7.49 at my nearest Giant Eagle.

The look: These are a mouthful—the largest bites in the taste test. The size of each is inconsistent. Two were morphed together in the box, forming one long macaroni and cheese clump. At each bite's core is a golden nucleus of cheesy elbow noodles.

The taste: Creamy and yummy, but nothing standout. Just like Giant Eagle's offering, there isn't enough complexity with a single cheese. The breading is lusterless, and it didn't get crusty enough in the oven. Perhaps the air fryer would have brought them to that desired texture—I'll try that next time. Other than these complaints, these are a solid option, but I expected more from such an established brand.

RELATED: 9 Best & Worst Frozen Foods at Trader Joe's, According to Dietitians

Appetitos Mac & Cheese Bites

If you're a habitual Aldi shopper, you know that big-name brands aren't the store's style. Instead, the chain's inventory is mostly comprised of private label products such as Nature's Nectar, Millville, and Simply Nature. In the frozen aisle, customers also find many appetizers and snacks sporting the Appetitos label. Franks in a blanket, mozzarella cheese sticks, puff pastry bites, and spinach artichoke dip are just a few options, in addition to classic macaroni and cheese bites. A relatively small box with 11 pieces sells for $3.49.

The look: Not overly appetizing. The shape resembles a mini corn dog, and the breading has the same look. Some became smooshed down in the oven, but noodles are still visible in the middle.

The taste: I wasn't expecting anything incredible, but the bites surprised me for a budget option. Their shell reaches an acceptable level of crispiness despite the droopy look, and the inside isn't oozing with cheese sauce. Despite incorporating only cheddar cheese, the cheese has a one-of-a-kind taste like Parmesan, or some other mild white cheese was thrown in. It's a box I would reach for again.

RELATED: The 10 Best Frozen Dumpling Brands

Trader Joe's Mac and Cheese Bites

It didn't surprise me that Trader Joe's stocks Mac and Cheese Bites alongside its countless other award-winning frozen apps and treats. Each box comes with 10 pieces, costs $3.99, and sports a new and improved recipe. The chain explains that the fresh version of the bites is "cheesier than ever" with seven—yes, seven—different cheese types stuffed in. Expect each bite to be stuffed with cheddar, havarti, Swiss, Gouda, Monterey Jack, Pecorino-Romano, and cream cheese. With all this fromage, it's a miracle that any elbow macaroni could still fit inside each nugget. Meanwhile, on the outside of each nugget you'll find "a thinner, crispier, panko-style breading" to offset all that gooey filling.

The look: In the shape of a ball, like Feel Good Foods Bites, but larger. The size leaves room for plenty of curvy noodles, which take on a pale yellow color.

The taste: Trader Joe's achieves the perfect ratio of breading to cheese to macaroni. These are also the first bites to wow me with their mac and cheese quality—probably all the different cheeses at work. The rich Gouda and Swiss stuck out to me, and each oozing pocket tastes buttery and luscious—just like a mac you would find at a high-end steakhouse. I wouldn't have been able to pinpoint that the breading was panko, but it is well-seasoned with tastes of garlic and a touch of salt.

The TJ's bites are good enough to eat plain, as I did. But, they would be even better dunked in marinara or some dressed-up ranch.

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The post I Tried 6 Frozen Mac & Cheese Bites & the Best Was Buttery and Luscious appeared first on Eat This Not That.

Sour cream is crafted in two main styles. The first is cultured sour cream, "which uses a bacteria culture to convert lactose and is not less than 8% milkfat," says Toby Amidor, MS, RD, CDN award-winning nutrition expert and Wall Street Journal bestselling author of Up Your Veggies: Flexitarian Recipes for the Whole Family. The other way to make sour cream is through the utilization of an "acid addition to make the milk more acidic and lactose remains in the finished product," continues Amidor. These sour creams are then offered in a wide variety of fat quantities, as defined by Amidor—Reduced fat (13.5% fat), light (9% or less fat), low fat (6% or less fat), and nonfat (1% or less fat).

Like all foods–and dairy products, at that–some brands are simply better for your health than others. Certain companies may adhere to stricter production methods, farming standards, and nutrition, while others may add a host of unnecessary additives to their product (whether or not these additives are benign).

It can be overwhelming to choose which sour cream is best for your specific health needs, so we've gone ahead and picked out the best (and some of the worst) sour creams so that you don't have to.

How We Chose the Best Sour Cream

We followed strict criteria when choosing the best sour creams on the market to ensure both quality taste and ultimate health.

• Low Sodium: Sour cream is usually low in sodium, but many brands like to sneak in excess sodium to enhance flavor and get consumers hooked. All of our recommended sour cream brands boast 20 milligrams or less of sodium which may help you stay on track toward meeting your health goals. It's important to note that the American Heart Association recommends no more than 2,300 milligrams a day for the average adult and promotes an ideal of 1,500 milligrams per day. If you're currently experiencing hypertension (high blood pressure), it's important to talk to your healthcare provider about how much sodium you should consume per day.

• Simple Ingredients: To put it frankly, there's nothing wrong with having "complicated" ingredients. Just because you can't pronounce an ingredient doesn't mean it's bad for you. Really, it just depends on what the ingredient is used for and how much of it is actually in your food. However, we wanted to keep it simple to make it easier for you to choose a healthy sour cream. All of the "best" sour creams on this list have simple, easy-to-read ingredients that are naturally derived and won't leave you guessing.

• Relatively Low in Saturated Fat: Saturated fat, which is fat that solidifies at room temperature, is natural in dairy products. However, too much saturated fat can lead to a slew of health issues, including cardiovascular disease. Therefore, the AHA recommends no more than 13 grams of saturated fat per day. A couple of dollops (or two tablespoons) of our favorite sour creams will put you at about 4.5 grams or less. If you eat these products in moderation, you should be just fine in the health department, and remember to eat nutrient-dense foods alongside your dairy products such as vegetables, whole grains, and legumes.

The Best Sour Creams

Best: Daisy Sour Cream

With a creaminess and flavor that complements any food it's paired with, Daisy Sour Cream enhances the overall eating experience. Made with only one ingredient–cultured cream—Daisy Sour Cream is free from preservatives, stabilizers, gums, and thickeners.

RELATED: 25 Healthy Chili Recipes for Weight Loss

Best: Tillamook Cultured Sour Cream

With slightly lower sodium levels than other brands, Tillamook's Cultured Sour Cream is made with rBST-free milk and slightly more butterfat than other brands, making it richer and more tart. That being said, Tillamook sour cream doesn't consist of more grams of fat than other brands on the market, and this sour cream actually has a bit less saturated fat than some. Additionally, this sour cream provides 2% of your daily calcium and potassium needs, both of which are crucial nutrients to support bone health.

Best: Elmhurst Sour Cream

For those looking for a dairy-free sour cream substitute, Elmhurst makes a delicious, silky alternative that has the same tang as your regular sour cream. Made with natural ingredients like oat milk, coconut oil, sunflower oil, and hemp protein, this sour cream is perfect for your baked potato. This Elmhurst substitute is—get this—completely sodium-free and contains no cholesterol, and all ingredients are non-GMO. Lastly, their convenient squeeze pouch is 100% BPA-free. The thing is, this is a small batch, limited edition sour cream, so get it while you can!

RELATED: 10 Highest-Quality Butter Brands, According to a Dietitian

Best: Kalona Organic Sour Cream

If you're looking for a USDA-certified organic sour cream, look no further than Kalona Organic Sour Cream. Kalona's sour cream is minimally processed through low-temperature pasteurization which, according to their website, kills "unwanted pathogens, but not the helpful bacteria that our bodies need." Additionally, Kalona's unique flavor makes it great on foods not usually associated with sour cream, like fruit.

Best: 365 Organic Lowfat Sour Cream

With no added sugar and 2 grams of protein, Whole Foods' Sour Cream is a great choice for those looking for a low-fat option. This USDA-certified organic sour cream also provides 6% of your daily vitamin A intake, with only 2.5 grams of fat per 2 tablespoons. Additionally, all stabilizers in this sour cream are sourced from natural ingredients such as guar gum, agar, and organic locust mung bean gum, so you don't need to worry about the health consequences of any synthetic food additives.

RELATED: 12 Best & Worst Mayonnaise Brands

Best: Good Culture

Amanda Sauceda, MS, RD, registered dietitian, feels that Good Culture has one of the best-tasting sour creams on the market. "They have simple ingredients, a rich texture, and its a source of probiotics, thanks to the live and active cultures," she shares. Plus, it's made with milk from pasture-raised cows.

The Worst Sour Creams

Worst: Land O' Lakes Sour Cream

It was a bit hard to choose a "bad" sour cream, as most brands lie within a similar health ballpark. We decided that Land O' Lakes, however, does come with a higher sodium count than most other brands without any protein, and only a scant potassium boost. Additionally, this sour cream is filled with different additives and preservatives with which some consumers may not be comfortable, such as modified food starch and sodium hexametaphosphate, the latter of which has proven to be safe for consumption, although it seems unnecessary given the fact that so many other brands do just fine without it.

RELATED: 10 Best & Worst Salad Dressing Brands

Worst: Food Lion Original Sour Cream

Not to say that this sour cream is "bad", but it isn't the best out there. While it does offer some major flavor and it doesn't have any sketchy ingredients in the container, it doesn't have any bells and whistles to make us want to crown it one of the "best". If you have the option, you can reap more health benefits if you select a different variety. But if this sour cream happens to end up in your shopping cart, you will be okay.

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The post 6 Highest-Quality Sour Creams on Grocery Shelves—and 2 to Avoid appeared first on Eat This Not That.

Like most people, what I buy at Costco is usually based on recommendations from friends, something that was offered as a sample, or a dish I've had my eye on for a while. To find some new favorites, I hit the freezer aisles and did a little taste testing on what's out there.

Since there's no way I could try it all, I taste-tested seven of the more popular freezer selections, including a few mainstays, some newer finds, as well as items under Costco's own private label, Kirkland Signature.

I often buy the Motor City Detroit Style Pizza and Five Cheese Bread, which weren't included in this test. They remain highly recommended in my book.

Here's what I thought of the freezer meals from least exciting to most delicious. I will note that there wasn't a single meal that was terrible. Most of the ranking comes down to personal taste preference and what works best for a particular family.

Beecher's Hatch Chili Mac and Cheese

This Beecher's mac and cheese is wildly popular among the Costco folk on Reddit, so when I spotted this hatch green chile version, I knew I had to try it. Costco is filled with mac and cheese options, from its take-and-bake version to boxed options and even mac and cheese bites. This version goes in the oven for about 30 minutes with a 10-minute rest. It was super simple to heat up. The box costs $16.99 for a 46-ounce tray in the warehouse.

The look: The long cook time was worth the wait as this one came out cheesy, bubbly and with good browning around the noodles at the edge. Each noodle was coated with cheese like a good mac and cheese should be.

The taste: The mac and cheese was delicious; you could tell it was real cheese, and a lot of it, but it was too spicy for my kids, who have a relatively high spice tolerance. After a few bites, even I had to stop eating it. The dish was too indulgent and rich. It'd be perfect for a party where everyone takes a small scoop, but as a main course, it was just too heavy (and spicy) for our crew.

RELATED: 12 Best Winter Bakery Items at Costco Right Now

Kirkland Signature Chicken Breast Chunks

These newer nuggets are what I believe to be Costco's answer to the Just Bare version that has been flying off the shelves for the past few years. Chicken nuggets are always a great kid dinner to have on hand. The 4-pound bag is $13.99.

The look: I was glad to see that there were a variety of sized nuggets with a nice light but even coating of golden breading. Nothing freaks me out more than chicken nuggets that are completely round and uniform in size (and likely not made of chicken).

The taste: Overall, the chicken nuggets were good but not great. We cooked one batch in the oven and one in the air fryer, and they weren't quite as crispy on the exterior as we wanted them to be. The coating was soggy. For the most part, we liked these and felt like the chicken was decent quality chicken until we each hit a few weird pieces that felt just a little too chewy and off-putting. For that reason, I may go for the Just Bare variety. That didn't stop my kids from making them later in the week.

Ajinomoto Yakitori Chicken Fried Rice

This fried rice was probably the easiest of all of the meals we tested. Priced at $14.99 in my local warehouse, the box comes with six bags of chicken fried rice that need to be microwaved for three minutes and then dumped into a bowl. It was so easy that my kids (ages 9 and 11) could make this independently whenever they wanted. For that reason, this pick-up is a winner. However, we were mixed on taste.

The look: Just like homemade fried rice should look, except it came from the microwave. Good chunks of chicken and a variety of colorful vegetables peeked out from under the browned rice.

The taste: I make a mean fried rice, and this one lacked flavor, but nothing that couldn't be doctored with a bit of chili crisp and soy sauce. It included a variety of frozen vegetables and white meat chicken that didn't look gross or taste rubbery. I think it's an excellent pick for a super simple pre-sports meal. Otherwise, I'd keep it as a quick, easy side dish.

RELATED: 12 Best-Ever Costco Essentials, According to Our Groceries Editor

La Paloma Mini Empanadas Beef Nacho Style

This wouldn't be considered a meal in some houses, but when you have a tween who is out the door for sports most nights, this is perfect. The box runs $11.69 in the warehouse.

The look: These mini empanadas are certainly not fashionable, but they'd look how you'd expect them to. I would have liked a little more browning, crispy looking edges, but they fly off the plate so fast nobody really inspected them.

The taste: We air-fried these two-bite empanadas, and they were what you'd expect. Easy to eat, they would make a great appetizer for watching sports on TV, and they flew like hotcakes. The flavor was good, exactly what you'd expect—nacho-style beef. Although this is probably not a meal I would make for myself, it is precisely what I want in a freezer meal—quick to make and appealing to kids. It's also the perfect meal for a babysitter to make. Healthier would be nice, but hey, you can't have everything.

Kirkland Signature Italian Sausage and Beef Lasagna

Although people rave about the Kirkland lasagna—right now, our store features both ground beef and ground beef plus sausage—I didn't have high expectations, but I was pleasantly surprised with this version. You get two trays for $16.69 in the warehouse.

The look: The exterior package made it look like a perfect lasagna. The visuals once cooked weren't exactly the same. The top was a mound of cheese and sauce with sausage poking through. Once you cut into it, the layers were better but this doesn't look quite as beautiful as a homemade lasagna would.

The taste: Far better than your average frozen lasagna, and it's made with choice ground beef, sausage, real cheese, and tomatoes. After two bites, I needed to gulp down water, likely due to all the meat. A salad would provide some balance.

This dish bakes for an hour-plus, so it's ideal to bake as you wrap up the day. The one downfall (or plus, depending on your brood) is that the two-tray package takes up a lot of freezer space. I recommend buying it the day you plan to make it and stashing the other tray in the freezer.

RELATED: 25 Best New Costco Snacks to Try in 2024, According to Shoppers

Rao's Eggplant Parmesan

I wasn't sure how this dish would go over with my family. We regularly use Rao's marinara, but whenever I suggest eggplant, it's shunned. The eggplant Parmesan comes in two trays. The serving size for each says five people, but my family disagrees. We made both trays for four people and probably went through about a tray and a half, so I would say the serving size is closer to three people for full-sized eaters. We served ours with a side of bucatini. A pack of two trays costs $16.99 at the warehouse.

The look: Not pretty! It's like a puddle of cheese and sauce with two giant mounds (the eggplant) in it. If I served this for anyone other than my family I would certainly figure out how to jazz up the presentation.

The taste: Certainly better than it looked! The delicious sauce was exactly what you'd expect. The eggplant was good, breaded, and not overly crispy, but not soggy. I felt like I was eating real food. It does take a full hour to bake, so if you are short on time, this is not the dish for you. If you can throw it in the oven and focus on other responsibilities while it cooks, it's a great option for a meal, and cleanup is minimal.

Royal Asia Coconut Shrimp

Costco usually has a half-dozen shrimp choices, so I wanted to take one for a spin. My kids don't usually eat a dish if they know shrimp is involved. (Shh … don't tell them what's in their Trader Joe's gyoza!) But, I figured out of all the choices, they might try the coconut shrimp. It's $14.99 in the warehouse for a 2-pound box.

The look: Exactly how'd you would expect—a nice golden coating with visible pieces of coconut with the tails poking out. Put these on a nice platter and they are ready for any guests coming over.

The taste: I didn't have high expectations, but these coconut shrimp were my favorite. They were crunchy and a bit sweet from the coconut, and the shrimp had the consistency you wanted: firm but not tough. They weren't fishy-tasting. I could do without the dipping sauce, but that's more of a personal thing. Both of my kids tried the shrimp and liked it—even knowing that they were eating shrimp! They were easy to bake in the oven, too. Aside from dinner, they'd also make an excellent appetizer for a party. I'd buy these coconut shrimp again.

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The post I Tried 7 Costco Frozen Meals & the Best Was Crunchy and a Bit Sweet appeared first on Eat This Not That.

From buttery-soft brie to firm, grainy parmesan to rolls of flavored goat cheese, there's something for every cheese taste in the dairy case at Trader Joe's. There are even some plant-based and lactose-free cheese options. Trader Joe's has all your cheesy needs covered.

The store stocks fancy cheeses for entertaining and a great mix of pre-shredded Parms and mozzarella for topping pizzas. Of course, there are also slices for sandwiches and burgers and tubs of cream cheeses and spreads.

Even the professionals shop at TJ's. Molly Browne, education director at the Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin and an ACS Certified Cheese Professional, says, "Trader Joe's has a nice selection of artisan cheeses, and many of their options have become cult classics."

If you want to impress with your cheese board skills, Browne recommends "picking three to five types of cheeses, depending on the size of your crowd. Vary the flavors and textures—try one soft cheese, one harder cheese, and one funky cheese like a blue."

For cooking, Bronwne notes that it comes down to the recipe you have in mind and personal preference. "Cheese attributes like acidity, moisture, textures ranging from soft to hard, and flavors from mild to sharp assist the artist behind the apron in determining the right cheese to make any dish a standout," she says.

So whether you're preparing a cheese board to impress guests or want a new snacking cheese to keep in the fridge, head to your local TJ's to stock up.

For an idea of where to start—should you stick to the standby double cream brie or try something new that's more herby or spicy?—we're here to help. I picked up seven of the most popular cheeses at Trader Joe's to sample for myself.

I took note of how each cheese looked, smelled, and, of course, tasted. So, while I always encourage trying something new at the store, if you don't want to take the risk, here's how my taste test of seven Trader Joe's cheeses went.

Dutch Smoked Cheese

This round cheese comes from the Netherlands and is infused with a rich, smoky flavor.

The look: The cheese presumably comes from a long tube. The grocery store sells it in a thick, round patty shape with a rust-brown rind around the perimeter. The center is yellowish, and the cheese has a firm but squishy, rubbery texture. The rind is edible, and it can be peeled off easily.

The taste: I expected a more smoke-forward flavor from this cheese, but most of the smokiness was captured in the rind, so if you get a piece without any rind (or if you prefer not to eat cheese rinds), you miss that more interesting taste. The center of the cheese was mild and creamy, but nothing stood out.

RELATED: I Tried 9 Trader Joe's Wines Under $15—& One Was Worth Every Penny

Brie Cheese with Wild Mushrooms

This soft cheese comes from Germany and contains a mix of thinly sliced mushrooms. It's sold in wedges, presumably taken from a large wheel. This cheese has a high fat and saturated fat content compared to the more firm options I tested.

The look: The cheese wedge is about 2 inches thick and has an ashy white rind. The center is off-white and marked by slivers of mixed mushrooms and air bubbles of various sizes. It has a semi-firm texture, so this is not the uber-creamy, spreadable brie you may expect.

The taste: The mushrooms give this cheese a decidedly umami flavor, and I found it to taste almost truffly, but there are no truffles or truffle oil in the ingredient list. There aren't a ton of mushrooms in the cheese, so you rarely get a full piece of fungi, but you can taste them in every bite. Otherwise, the cheese is not overly strong flavored, and it didn't have the silky smooth cream texture I love in a soft cheese.

Wisconsin Extra Sharp Cheddar

This plank of extra-sharp cheddar is a product of Wisconsin. It's been aged for a minimum of nine months, a process that concentrates the flavor and firms up the texture.

The look: This is a pretty standard-looking block of white cheddar cheese. It's just under 1 inch thick and has a firm texture that gives a bit when squeezed. It slices easily into neat rectangles.

The taste: I expected a much stronger cheese flavor from this "extra sharp" cheddar, but it's quite mild. Cheddar is a great melting cheese, and this would be delicious in a grilled cheese sandwich, but you'd want something spicy or sweet to amp up the flavor.

RELATED: I Tried 11 Trader Joe's Frozen Desserts & the Winner Was Delightfully Decadent

Parmesan Cheese

This cheese had the highest protein count and one of the highest sodium content of the Trader Joe's cheeses I sampled. The packaging doesn't specify where this cheese is from. Technically, if it's not from Parma, Italy, it can't be called Parmesan with a capital P. I assume TJ's would make it known if this was an Italian import, so let's assume this is parmesan, not Parmesan.

The look: This cheese is sold in the signature thick wedge. It has a hard, dry rind on the wider edge of the wedge and over one side (the rinds are great for thickening soups, so don't let yours go to waste). The cheese is the firmest in this test and has a pale yellow color.

The taste: This parm was saltier than many of the others I sampled, but it wasn't necessarily all that flavorful or bold-tasting. It had the grainy texture of all Parmesans, so it's easily grated and sliced off in shards rather than neat slices. I think pricier imported parmesan cheeses have a more robust flavor.

Asiago Cheese with Rosemary & Olive Oil

Asiago is another hard cheese, and this wedge is infused with dried rosemary and olive oil.

The look: This thin wedge is coated on one side with a generous sprinkling of dried rosemary. The herb sticks to the cheese well, so you get a fair bit in every bite if you slice it correctly. This asiago also has a firm rind on one side.

The taste: I immediately noticed the funky aroma of this cheese after opening the package. It has a sharp but creamy flavor with an herby finish. I wouldn't say I could taste the olive oil, but you get plenty of rosemary, which could be off-putting if you're not a fan of intense dried herb flavors.

RELATED: I Tried 8 Trader Joe's Frozen Pizzas & the Best Was Tasty (and Adorable!)

Double Cream Gouda Cheese

This gouda comes from Holland and is made with cow's milk. Like the parm, it's sliced from a larger wheel and has a rind on two sides.

The look: This is a rubbery, dense cheese with a few small air pockets in the yellowish center. It has a darker yellow rind that's quite hard and waxy.

The taste: This gouda has a tangier flavor than most of the cheeses I tried from Trader Joe's. It's sharp but creamy, with a richness that coats your mouth. The texture is semi-hard, and the cheese is easy to slice into planks or cubes. The rind also peels off easily.

RELATED: I Tried 9 Trader Joe's Frozen Pastas & The Best Was Creamy & Delicious

La Délice de Bourgogine Triple Cream Soft Ripened Cheese

This French cheese doesn't have a distinct classification, but it's similar to brie or Camembert in its flavor, texture, and look. It comes in a special hard plastic case to presumably prevent any smushing in transit, as it's a very soft, delicate wedge.

The look: The high-fat content of this soft cheese is visible. It has three layers: a fairly thick washed rind, then an intensely creamy layer that's silky smooth and spreads like soft butter. The center is a bit firmer, which gives the cheese some structure, and is pocked by small air pockets.

The taste: This cheese is insanely creamy and rich. You can cut away slices, but they nearly fall apart on your knife. This is a cheese that needs a cracker for spreading. The flavor is wonderfully buttery and has a funky back-of-the-throat flavor that you get from well-made cheeses.

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The post I Tried 7 Trader Joe's Cheeses & the Best Is Super Creamy and Rich appeared first on Eat This Not That.

The purpose of snacking is to satisfy your hunger in between meals, giving your body a nutrient-dense pick-me-up during the morning or afternoon hours. Eating protein-heavy snacks can reduce hunger levels and appetite, and those that are heavy on fiber can fill you up by slowing down the rate of digestion. When you opt for snack items that don't come with enough fiber or protein, more often than not,  you're left hungry and unsatisfied, which not only defeats the purpose of snacking in the first place but can also ultimately trigger overeating. In addition to lacking fiber and protein, many unhealthy snacks may also contain lots of sodium and added sugars, which we all know can be a disservice to your body, especially when consumed in excess. But what are some of the unhealthiest snacks you'd commonly find at the grocery store and are better off avoiding?

Ensuring your snack breaks leave you satisfied and with a full, happy belly means also knowing how to identify and weed out the unhealthiest ones that you'll want to limit if not completely avoid. Read on to find out which unhealthy snacks we believe aren't worth your time or digestive energy—then, for some healthier snack inspiration, check out 50 Healthiest Weight Loss Snacks on Grocery Shelves.

Cheetos Flamin' Hot Tangy Chili Fusion

In looking at the nutrition information, these Cheetos Flamin' Hot Tangy Chili Fusion snacks may not seem all that bad at first, but after a closer look at their ingredients list, you'll see that this cheesy snack uses Red 40 Lake and Yellow 5 Lake, two dyes that were mentioned previously as having adverse health outcomes linked to them.

Not to mention that even without these artificial colorings, you're still consuming a snack that has barely any fiber or protein, which we know by now just won't cut it when it comes to finding a satiating, filling snack.

Ritz Bits Cheese Sandwich Crackers

"These little sandwich snacks barely contain any protein and are lacking fiber," says Lisa Young, Ph.D., RDN, author of Finally Full, Finally Slim and member of our Medical Expert Board. "This makes it a very low-protein and low-fiber snack while being high in fat." In other words, it won't fill you up or leave you genuinely satisfied.

RELATED: 16 Healthy Store-Bought Crackers, According to Dietitians

Snyder's Hot Buffalo Wing Pretzel Pieces

If you're craving a salty pretzel snack, you may want to steer clear of Snyder's Hot Buffalo Wing Pretzel Pieces. "Choosing this snack would be the opposite of choosing a nutrient-dense one," says Young. "These are very low in protein and fiber, which helps to keep you full and satiated for longer periods. Moreover, these pretzel bites are also relatively high in fat, with 3 grams being from the saturated kind."

Kellogg's Frosted Strawberry Poptarts

"Pop-Tarts have been around for a while and are a popular breakfast choice for individuals who are short on time," says Young. "However, this is one of the worst snack choices you can make in terms of your health." Not only is this snack high in sodium and low in fiber and protein, but Young adds that "Kellogg's Pop-Tarts contain ultra-processed ingredients such as soybean oil and refined flour, and contain three different types of sugar: refined white sugar, corn syrup, and high-fructose corn syrup."

Doritos Nacho Cheese

A classic favorite among many, Doritos Nachos Cheese chips are better eaten in moderation, as they'll fill you up on sodium and little to no nutrients at all. "Doritos are typically high in calories, fat, and sodium, and the Nacho Cheese flavor specifically contains artificial flavors and preservatives," says Mary Sabat MS, RDN, LD.

Fritos Chili Cheese Corn Chips

You guessed it, only 2 grams of protein and 1 gram of fiber puts this snack on our list of unhealthy, non-filling snacks. Beyond just the lack of nutrients, Fritos Chili Cheese Corn Chips also lists maltodextrin as one of its first few ingredients. This additive can be found in many ultra-processed foods and has been linked to negatively altering your gut microbiome.

RELATED: 9 Healthiest Snacks You Can Buy at Costco Right Now

Gushers

Although Gushers will quickly satisfy a sweet tooth, this nostalgic treat has 10 grams of added sugar and zero grams of fiber or protein, meaning it won't fill you up in the slightest.

This snack food also uses artificial dyes like Red 40, Blue 1, and Yellow 5 & 6. These dyes have been linked to neurobehavioral complications in children, and long-term consumption of Red 40 has recently been linked to ulcerative colitis—chronic inflammation of the colon. In other words, it's best to stay away from these artificial dyes when you can.

Little Debbie Double Decker Oatmeal Creme Pies

Little Debbie Oatmeal Creme Pies are already infamous for being a delicious snack loaded with sugar, but their "Double Decker" Oatmeal Creme Pies are even worse. Loaded with a massive 40 grams of added sugar and only 2 grams of fiber to help slow digestion, this snack can quickly spike your blood sugar and leave you still feeling hungry.

Another thing to consider with this handheld sweet treat is that it's fairly high in saturated fat at 9 grams per serving. The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends limiting your consumption to around 13 grams for better heart health, but snacks like these get you close to your limit without factoring in the rest of the food you'll eat during the day.

Hot Pockets

"Hot Pockets are convenient, but [they] typically contain processed meats, refined grains, high levels of sodium, and unhealthy fats," says Sabat.

Even though these items are often enjoyed as a midday snack, they are loaded with saturated fat and 660 milligrams of sodium, which is almost 30% of your recommended sodium limit for an entire day.

Hostess Twinkies

No one should be surprised to see Twinkies on our list, as these sugar bombs are a notoriously unhealthy snack choice.

"Twinkies contain partially hydrogenated oils, which are a source of trans fats, and they lack nutritional value," says Sabat.

These processed cakes also come with a whopping 32 grams of added sugar and absolutely no fiber to help slow down your body's absorption of the sugar. This can cause spikes in your blood sugar, and the lack of protein will leave you feeling hungry and craving more.

Little Debbie Chocolate Chip Mini Muffins

As we mentioned previously, snacks that are lacking in fiber and protein won't keep you feeling satisfied until your next meal, and these Chocolate Chip Mini Muffins from Little Debbie are the perfect example of this. Of course, this sweet treat will taste delicious, but you'll still feel hungry after snacking on it.

RELATED: 5 Healthiest Muffins at the Grocery Store—and 6 To Avoid

Lay's Sour Cream & Onion Chips

Another tempting snack to munch on for those who love a savory midafternoon break, but these Lay's Sour Cream & Onion Chips just won't do the job of providing a healthy snack. With only 1 gram of fiber and 2 grams of protein, you'll be left wanting more every time.

RELATED: The Unhealthiest Chips, According to Dietitians

Grandma's Chocolate Brownie Cookies

A classic vending machine snack that many of us remember from childhood, Grandma's Chocolate Brownie Cookies provide a hefty amount of calories and added sugar. Another tricky characteristic of this snack is that a serving size is only one cookie but each package comes with two, making it significantly harder to stick to a serving.

Entenmenn's Plain Glazed Donut Holes

If you prefer a sweet snack over savory, you may love the sound of a few donut holes to satisfy the sugar cravings. When the sweet tooth hits, however, we suggest steering clear of snacks like Entenmenn's Plain Glazed Donut Holes. In just one serving of four donut holes you're getting 18 grams of sugar and zero grams of fiber, so this snack is likely to spike your blood sugar. It also doesn't contain enough fiber or protein to help it stick, so you'll be left just as hungry as before.

Snack Pack Chocolate Vanilla Pudding

"The Snack Pack Pudding is definitely a snack to leave in the grocery store and avoid bringing home, as it contains a plethora of unclean and highly processed ingredients," says Young. "This item is also a very low-protein, low-fiber, and high-sugar snack, and foods that don't have a lot of protein or fiber contribute to hunger, as they don't contain many—if any nutrients at all." Young also adds that "this pudding snack contains processed oils such as palm oil, which is 50% saturated fat."

Nutella

Most everyone loves a spoonful (or three) of Nutella, but this is considered one of the most unhealthy snacks due to its extremely high sugar content in such a small serving size. "This chocolate hazelnut spread is made mostly with sugar and palm oil, which is extremely processed," says Young. "A one-tablespoon serving of Nutella is about 21 grams of sugar, and the protein and fiber content is very low, which is the opposite of a fulfilling snack." The problem with Nutella is that because it's tasty yet devoid of significant nutritional value is because it's difficult to limit yourself to a serving size—before long, the whole jar is gone.

Oreos

"Each Oreo cookie contains a significant amount of refined sugar, contributing to potential health issues such as weight gain, diabetes, and tooth decay," says Trista Best, MPH, RD, LD at Balance One Supplements. "Additionally, Oreos are made with partially hydrogenated oils, which are a source of trans fats known to increase the risk of heart disease, and high-fructose corn syrup, an artificial sweetener that has been linked to various health problems when consumed in excess."

Cheetos

Another popular snack to be wary of is classic Cheetos Puffs, an item full of cheesy flavor—yet incredibly low in fiber and protein.

"Cheetos are considered one of the most unhealthy snacks primarily due to their unhealthy fats, sodium, and artificial additives," says Best. Unfortunately, regularly eating snacks high in sodium can elevate your daily sodium intake, which in turn can lead to "increased blood pressure and increased risk of heart problems," she adds.

Chips Ahoy! Original Chocolate Chip Cookies

A classic chocolate chip cookie is certainly a comforting snack, but you're better off ditching this sugary item that will ultimately leave you feeling hungrier and with more cravings.

"Chips Ahoy! Chocolate Chip Cookies are considered an unhealthy snack, largely due to their high sugar and unhealthy fat content, as well as their ingredient list, which includes partially hydrogenated oils—a source of trans fats," says Best. "Ultimately, consuming these cookies in moderation is recommended to minimize the negative health effects associated with their ingredients."

Crunchy Cheetos

Similar to the puffy kind, Cheetos Crunchy Cheese-Flavored Snacks also make the list of unhealthy snacks because they're high in sodium and very low in fiber and protein.

"They're also high in calories and artificial additives, which have been associated with adverse health effects," adds Sabat. For instance, they contain Yellow Dye 6, which has been found to potentially contain cancer-causing contaminants.

Lay's Classic Potato Chips

When you're craving a salty snack, there's nothing like opening a fresh bag of Lay's Classic Potato Chips. Unfortunately, these may not be your best choice, as only 15 chips will give you 10 grams of fat, no fiber, and hardly any protein.

"These chips are also loaded with sodium, which can contribute to high blood pressure and other health issues when consumed in excess," says Sabat.

RELATED: 6 Healthiest Potato Chips—and 4 To Avoid, According to Dietitians

Hostess HoHos

These nostalgic chocolate cake treats provide the same complications as the Little Debbie snacks. Hostess HoHos have 40 grams of sugar per serving with hardly any fiber or protein to back them up, as well as your daily limit of saturated fat in one snack.

Hostess Apple Pie

You can probably spot the pattern by now: ultra-processed sweet treats like the ones from Little Debbie or Hostess are more often than not going to be considered "unhealthy snacks" because of their high added sugar content and low levels of protein and fiber. Snacks like these Hostess Apple Pie fit the bill and won't satisfy your hunger and cravings in the way a healthy, nutrient-dense snack can.

RELATED: 10 Unhealthiest Store-Bought Cookie Doughs To Avoid

Lay's Barbecue Potato Chips

If you're a fan of the Barbecue flavor of Lay's potato chips, be warned that although this snack is delicious, it won't do anything for your health goals. For a small serving size of only 15 chips, it still packs in 150 calories, 1.5 grams of saturated fat, and 150 milligrams of sodium. With a tiny amount of fiber and protein, it definitely won't leave you feeling satisfied, meaning you'll either eat far beyond the portion size or grab an additional snack anyway.

Keebler E.L. Fudge Elfwich

Whether it's crackers or sweet treats, the Keebler elves are known for delivering delicious snacks. However, these elves won't help you in terms of nutrition, especially with the E.L. Fudge Elfwiches. At first glance, the nutrition facts may not seem all that terrible, but the serving size only includes two small cookies, and how can that possibly be a satisfying snack? Most people will end up eating a few serving sizes of this snack, which will cause them to rack up their added sugar, saturated fat, and sodium content.

Orville Redenbacher's Pour Over Movie Theater Butter Popcorn

Popcorn is an obvious choice for movie night snacks, especially the microwavable kind that can be ready in seconds. However, some options are worse than others when it comes to nutritional value (or lack thereof), and Orville Redenbacher's Pour Over Movie Theater Butter is one of the worst. Popcorn has the potential to be a healthy snack, but this particular item comes packed with 330 milligrams of sodium and 4.5 grams of saturated fat, leaving you no wiggle room to overindulge.

RELATED: 11 Healthiest Microwave Popcorn Brands—and 7 You Should Avoid

Clif Bar Chocolate Brownie

The tricky thing about Clif Bars is that they're advertised as protein bars you can eat as a snack, but since they're loaded up with sugar, they're really only helpful if you're going to have an intense workout. But if you're just looking for a protein-heavy snack for your midday work break, you'll want to choose something much lower in sugar and sodium.

RELATED: 10 Unhealthiest Protein Bars To Avoid

Starburst Gummies

Those in the mood for a sweet snack they can pop in their mouth may be tempted by Starburst Gummies, but with a teeny tiny serving size of only 7 pieces, you're still loading your body up with 18 grams of sugar and only a single gram of protein, meaning you'll be hungrier and have even more cravings than when before you started.

Nutrigrain Strawberry

Nutrigrain Bars can be a bit of a disappointment because they're often marketed as a tasty granola bar you can enjoy as a snack. But with 12 grams of sugar, along with only one gram of fiber and two grams of protein, nothing about this bar will leave you feeling satiated, not to mention the epic novel-length ingredient list, which includes preservatives, corn syrup, and other additives.

Little Debbie Nutty Buddy Snack Bar

We had to throw one Little Debbie snack on this list, although most of their items could certainly be placed under the label of unhealthy snacks. The Nutty Buddy bars come with a whopping 9 grams of saturated fat and 22 grams of sugar, and even though these bars are filed under "snack bars" on the Little Debbie website, these nutrition facts scream nothing but a glorified dessert on the go.

This story has been updated since its original publish date to include additional entries and remove outdated information.

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The post The 30 Unhealthiest Snacks on the Planet appeared first on Eat This Not That.

The freezer can be a dark and scary place if you don't know how to fill it correctly. But, with some guidance, it can be an Eden of healthy snacks and lifesaving meal options.

Take it from Laura Burak, MS, RD, founder of GetNaked Nutrition and author of Slimdown with Smoothies. "Frozen items are one of the best ways to never say 'what's for dinner?' again," she says. "Stocking up with lots of nutrient-packed foods that you can simply heat and eat or blend and sip will save you time, money, and can be much healthier than ordering takeout again."

To get the lowdown on the best frozen foods, we asked Burak, along with a few additional members of our medical expert board, to share their go-to picks. Find out which frozen foods have their backing, and adjust your grocery list accordingly before your trip down the frosty grocery store aisles.

Avocado

Avocados might not be the first item you'd think to buy frozen, but stocking your freezer with this fruit has several pros, according to Lauren Manaker, MS, RDN. Not only can avocados be used in various recipes ranging from guacamole to smoothies, but they're also rich in health benefits.

"Avocados are a unique and healthy fruit because they contain unsaturated fat and can act as a nutrient booster by helping increase the absorption of fat-soluble nutrients like vitamins A, D, K, and E," Manaker says. Another bonus she highlights is that these "good fats" don't raise LDL or "bad" cholesterol levels when consumed with a healthy diet.

While you can freeze your avocados, grocery stores also sell bags of frozen chunks.

RELATED: How to Choose the Best Avocado at the Grocery Store

Egg products

Craving eggs for breakfast but don't have the time (or desire) to make them? You can still get your fix with the help of some frozen egg products, which Manaker says are "worth keeping in stock for the first meal of the day."

For the frittata fans, Manaker recommends Applegate Frittata Bites, which are fully cooked egg bites made with 100% natural ingredients and humanely raised meat, as highlighted by the brand. In terms of frozen omelet options, Manaker is a fan of Eggland's Best three-cheese frozen omelet. These contain a blend of cheddar, Monterey Jack, and parmesan cheeses. Another selling point? Eggland's Best eggs have six times more vitamin D than ordinary eggs.

Additionally, if you don't think you'll use up your eggs quickly enough, Manaker points out that you can freeze raw eggs for up to a year. To do this, you would crack the eggs and either beat the whole egg or separate the yolk from the white before freezing, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).

Burritos

Want Mexican food in a pinch? For Manaker, frozen burritos "can be a healthy addition to mealtime, as long as you are choosing ones that are made with quality ingredients."

One brand the dietitian recommends is Red's. Manaker notes how the burritos are "flash frozen at peak freshness," which helps prevent the formation of ice crystals. Plus, they're cooked in small batches with freshly made tortillas and are free of artificial ingredients. These burritos come in a variety of options.

RELATED: 8 Best & Worst Frozen Burritos, According to a Nutritionist

Açaí Bowls

If you're bored of your usual smoothie, why not give an açaí bowl a try? For a low-effort, antioxidant-packed dish, Manaker recommends purchasing this item frozen.

"There are some great options out there, like Sambazon Foods, that offer their açaí bowls in biodegradable bowls," Manaker says. "These options make enjoying an açaí bowl more accessible, which is a good thing because they are so good."

Bone Broth

Often praised for its health benefits, bone broth is a grocery item you'll want to consider buying frozen, according to Tammy Lakatos Shames RD, CDN, CFT and Lyssie Lakatos, RD, CDN, CFT, also known as the Nutrition Twins.

"This nutrient-rich broth makes a great stock for making soups, sauces, and gravies that pack in the health benefits," per the Nutrition Twins. "You can simply drink it, too, and since it contains amino acids including glycine and arginine, you'll reap the benefits of their strong anti-inflammatory properties, as well as glutamic acid, which becomes glutamine in the body, protecting the gut lining."

Although you can purchase fresh bone broth, the twins point out that this time has a relatively short five-day shelf life. As an alternative to buying fresh, the dietitians recommend the frozen Bonefida Provisions bone broth. If you're not planning on using all of it, you can thaw what you intend to use and put the rest back into the freezer.

"It is particularly soothing when you're run down and don't want to have to worry about cooking or having the rest of the package go bad," according to the twins.

RELATED: I Tried 8 Store-Bought Chicken Broths & The Best Was Rich & Not Too Salty

Plant-based veggie & protein bowls

"With everyone trying to eat more plant-based meals, washing and chopping fresh veggies and cooking whole grains and beans can be time-consuming, but frozen blends have the work done for you and can be ready in minutes," according to the Nutrition Twins.

For an easy alternative, the dietitians recommend Birds Eye California Style Power Blend, which features a mix of frozen brown rice, white quinoa, and lentils, along with broccoli, peas, and shelled edamame in a garlic sauce.

Another similar option the Nutrition Twins suggest is Green Giant's California Style Harvest Protein Bowl. This item includes a blend quinoa, lentils, edamame, corn, grilled peppers, peas, and kale, along with a lemon and herb sauce. For an additional eight grams of protein, the dietitians say you can add a quarter cup of light cheese to these bowl options, bringing the protein count to 23 and 22 grams, respectively.

Desserts

This one might seem like a given—hello, ice cream! But for the Nutrition Twins, the appeal of a frozen dessert goes beyond deliciousness.

"Desserts are some of the best grocery items to buy frozen because the cold temperatures slow you down, so you can really savor and enjoy them, and you're less likely to overeat them," the dietitians say.

To navigate this grocery category, the Nutrition Twins emphasize purchasing healthier options that are lower in calories and still taste decadent. One brand they recommend and work with is Halo Top, which has light ice cream with only 270 to 360 calories per pint and yogurt pops with 70 to 100 calories per pop.

"These better-for-you desserts can save more than double the calories compared to other frozen desserts," note the twins, adding that their clients "love" the caramel cheesecake light ice cream.

RELATED: 15 Low-Calorie Frozen Desserts for Weight Loss

Berries and other fruits

Because they are frozen at the peak of ripeness, frozen fruits (and vegetables) can actually be more nutritious than fresh, says nutritionist Burak. She specifically recommends hoarding "a variety of fruits like berries, mango, cherries, and pineapple to throw into the blender."

Berries were a popular choice among our other dietitians, as well—and more specifically, blueberries. Amy Shapiro, MS, RD, founder of Real Nutrition NYC, describes the frozen version of the tiny blue fruit as a "nutritional powerhouse" with two times the antioxidants and 72% more fiber compared to regular, fresh blueberries.

As you're browsing the frozen fruit aisle, one additional hint from Burak is to reach for organic brands with no added sugars.

Peas

You can't mention fruits without their food pyramid equivalent: vegetables. And, experts had a few specific frozen choices to share, starting with frozen peas.

"I add these to pasta dishes right at the end of cooking the pasta," Shapiro says. "This adds green, protein, fiber, and nutrition to a simple pasta dish. Cooks up quick, is great for a vegetarian or vegan meal, and is kid-friendly too." She adds that this is a helpful alternative for times when you're fresh out of fresh vegetables but still want them represented in your family's dinner.

RELATED: The 25 Best Frozen Foods at Sam's Club Right Now

Spinach

Nutritionist and author of Finally Full, Finally Slim, Lisa R. Young, PhD, RDN, likes to keep a stash of frozen spinach in her freezer. She shares that it's "terrific to add to soups, stews, and other vegetable and meat dishes." Popeye would be so pleased!

Additionally, if you have picky kids that turn up their noses at green vegetables, Burak suggests adding veggies like spinach or even avocado chunks to your fruit smoothies instead. "I promise you won't even know those veggies are hiding in there," she assures.

Corn

Fresh ears of corn are a staple for summer barbecues, but they're typically MIA from the grocery store throughout the colder fall and winter months. Young's solution is to purchase frozen corn, which is conveniently available all year round and also retains its sweetness very well—better than canned corn.

Pro tip: To get the most flavor out of your frozen corn, cook it in a skillet with your favorite spices rather than boiling it or microwaving it. You don't need to thaw frozen corn before preparing it, but giving it a quick rinse can help remove any of those pesky ice crystals.

RELATED: 25 Best Frozen Foods at Costco Right Now

Edamame

Both Young and Shapiro are on the frozen edamame bandwagon. "Edamame is a terrific plant protein, which you can add to salads and vegetable dishes," Young shares. "I love keeping edamame in my freezer and heating some up as a snack or to round out a meal."

Shapiro adds that since the vegetable is oftentimes hard to find fresh, you should scoop it up frozen to add some extra fiber to your diet. You can typically find frozen edamame either shelled or still in the pods. The latter makes for the perfect poppable appetizer when served with just a pinch of salt!

Sliced bread and other wheat-based items

Burak recommends "keeping a sliced loaf of bread, English muffins, bagels, or toaster waffles for quick breakfast ideas and sandwiches."  These foods can be popped directly into the toaster oven from the freezer and are ready in mere minutes—a busy parent's dream. Just try to limit any frozen toaster strudel items, which are typically high in added sugars. We're looking at you, Pillsbury Toaster Strudels.

Additionally, if you're not a fan of the frozen bread options on the market, Burak says you can alternatively pick up a sliced loaf of grainy bakery bread and freeze it yourself for the same effect.

RELATED: I Tried 4 Frozen Breads & The Best is Soft & Fresh-Tasting

Fish, poultry, and meat

If you're shopping for a large family or just don't enjoy frequent trips to the grocery store, keeping a supply of frozen fish, poultry, and meat in the house is always a good idea. These proteins don't stay fresh for long, so Young recommends saving money by purchasing them frozen and just defrosting as needed. "Veggie burgers are also best bought frozen and they will last for several months in the freezer," she adds.

Pizza

There's no shame in resorting to a scrumptious and hassle-free frozen pizza for dinner. Burak even encourages you to always have one or two on deck. The appeal of frozen pizza—besides its obvious convenience factor—is the wide assortment of options out there. You can cater to your own health preferences and taste. For Burak, this means reaching for names like Banza or Cali'flour Foods.

"Crusts made with more nutritious ingredients like chickpeas and veggies like these two brands offer more bang for your buck in terms of nutrients," she says.

You could also give Milton's Craft Bakers Thin & Crispy Roasted Vegetable Cauliflower Crust Pizza a try—the standing favorite of Manaker. Whichever pie you choose, just pair it with a side salad or vegetable, and boom! You have an easy, well-rounded meal.

RELATED: The 30 Worst Frozen Foods in America

Appetizers

In addition to pizza and flatbreads, Burak suggests stocking up on select frozen appetizers, so you're never left empty-handed in a pinch. She specifically calls out soup, and if you've ever walked down the freezer aisle, you know there are plenty of other frozen eats competing for your attention, as well.

Take some extra time to examine the nutritional facts on frozen apps, however. Of course they're delicious, but selections like Ore-Ida Tater Tots or Totino's Pizza Rolls typically offer nothing in the way of health value. Treat your family to something more wholesome and nourishing instead.

Shrimp

If you're a seafood lover, you're in luck. Along with fish and other meats, Shapiro adds shrimp to the list of great freezer aisle grabs. "I always keep frozen shrimp on hand. It is more affordable than fresh and defrosts and cooks up in minutes, making a healthy meal that is high in protein, iodine, and delicious in minutes," she says.

She even gives some helpful advice on how to cook the crustaceans. Make sure to save this info for your next delicious dinner. "Simply place the frozen shrimp in a colander and rinse under warm water. Broil for two to three minutes or pan fry until pink and opaque," she says. "I use a pesto sauce, but butter or olive oil and garlic work well too!"

This story has been updated to include additional entries, fact-checking, and copyedits.

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The post 17 Grocery Items You Should Always Buy Frozen, According to Experts appeared first on Eat This Not That.

Yesterday, Instagram user @whats_in_your_cart shared a post showing Costco's new turkey and Swiss sandwich available at the warehouse club's food court. As depicted in the video, this sandwich features sliced oven roasted turkey breast, Swiss cheese, sun dried tomato spread, mayo, and mustard. "It was tasty! The sun dried tomato spread added a little flavor to it. Good option for just $6.99!" the poster wrote.

RELATED: The 14 Best Breads You Can Score at Costco Right Now

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The new turkey offering would be the second new sandwich to debut at the Costco food court recently, following last year's launch of a hotly debated roast beef variety, which immediately drew criticism, primarily over its $9.99 price tag. While the turkey sandwich appears to be cheaper than its controversial predecessor, it's already facing judgment for several reasons.

Commenters on social media were quick to share their opinions about the newest release, with several expressing their surprise by the sandwich's calorie count.

"900 cals for a small sandwich though?" one commenter questioned.

"How can that sandwich have 900 calories??? Is this even possible????" another one wrote.

Underneath the new item's sign is a disclaimer noting that the 2,000-calorie diet is used for "general nutrition advice." It adds that "calorie needs vary" and "additional nutrition information is available upon request." Based on this nutrition standard, the new food court sandwich is 45% of a day's worth of calories.

Meanwhile, other Instagram users weren't too keen on the sandwich's price.

"$7!?!? I could just eat my way through all the ingredients in the store that makes up this sandwich for less and feed the teenager and family — that would make more sense," one Instagram user commented.

Another one noted that the sandwich costs $9.99 at a Denver warehouse, adding, "It was just a regular sandwich, nothing special and not worth $10."

RELATED: I Tried 4 Costco Frozen Breakfast Sandwiches & There's Only One I'd Get Again

This isn't the first time Costco's food court served a turkey sandwich. The warehouse club previously offered a hot turkey and provolone sandwich, but cut it from the menu during the pandemic. This item was made with oven-browned turkey, provolone cheese, red onion, tomatoes, and a basil garlic mayonnaise on a toasted torta roll.

Talk of the new turkey and Swiss sandwich surfaced after shoppers reported the disappearance of the food court's previous roast beef sandwich. Rumors about the item's discontinuation first began swirling in October 2023 after an alleged Costco employee announced via Reddit that the sandwich would be leaving the food court, following the backlash over its $9.99 price and other complaints.

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The post Costco's Food Court Just Dropped a New Turkey Sandwich, But the Calorie Count Is Shocking appeared first on Eat This Not That.

If you don't want to preserve your own cucumbers in jars, you can find a wide array of pickles at any grocery store. Some are preserved in glass jars and can be found in the inner aisles of the store, while others are kept in the refrigerated section.

The difference between shelf-stable and refrigerated pickles is how they're processed. Pickles sold at room temperature have been treated with a hot water bath and sealed in an airtight jar that prevents the growth of bacteria. The cucumbers have essentially been cooked, which darkens their color and can soften their texture. This method extends cucumbers' shelf life significantly.

Refrigerated pickles, on the other hand, have not had the hot-water treatment. They're preserved in a salty, sweet, vinegary brine that keeps bacteria out. These cukes have not been cooked and, therefore, tend to be lighter colored and have a crisper, snappier texture.

It's easy to find both kinds of pickles at your local supermarket, but it's not always easy to know which will taste the best. So, to help you shop for your next jar, I sampled seven of the most common varieties of dill pickles. I included a selection of both shelf-stable and refrigerated pickles from different brands.

Here's how these seven popular pickles ranked in my test, in descending order.

B&G Kosher Dill Pickle Chips

These round pickle chips from B&G fell flat in the flavor and texture department. They're colored with yellow dye No. 5 and come in a shelf-stable jar.

The look: These ridged pickle rounds are thick-cut and have a yellowish-green tint. The cucumber skin is darker and pocked with natural spots. A fair amount of mustard seed is also floating in the clear green pickle brine.

The taste: These chips were, unfortunately, quite soggy and mushy rather than crispy or crunchy. The center was especially soft, and getting past this disappointing texture was hard. The thicker slice is also too large for a burger or a sandwich.

RELATED: Ex-McDonald's Chef Claims You Can Buy the Popular Pickles at the Store

Vlasic Ovals Hamburger Dill Chips

These ridged dill pickle chips from Vlasic looked and tasted the most similar to B&G, with a slightly improved texture. These pickles are colored with turmeric rather than artificial dyes.

The look: These pickles have a slightly yellow tinge in the corner. They're fairly thick-cut with deep ridges. The clear brine contains no visible flavoring agents, such as mustard seed or garlic.

The taste: These pickles have a slightly sweeter flavor (they contain a trace amount of high-fructose corn syrup) and are quite salty. Aside from salt, there's little nuance in the flavor, and they have a thick slice that's hard to manage in a burger or sandwich.

Claussen Kosher Dill Sandwich Slices

Claussen's kosher dill slices are designed for maximum coverage in a sandwich. They're sold in the refrigerator section and are pickled with turmeric, garlic, and red pepper.

The look: These pickles are sliced into long, thin planks with those familiar ridges. The juice is clear and light-colored, and the slices are thinner than those of B&G and Vlasic. The pickles have an attractive pale green color.

The taste: These pickles are for salt lovers. They're highly seasoned, and despite the visible bits of crushed garlic in the brine, there isn't much more in the flavor department besides salt. That said, they have a nice crunch, at least around the edges (the center gets a bit soggy), and they taste lighter and fresher than the shelf-stable jars I sampled.

RELATED: 8 Restaurant Chains That Serve the Best Fried Pickles

Grillo's Pickle Chips

These pale green chips are found in the refrigerated section. Each container is bursting with pickles and juice (beware of a splash when you open the lid). They're made with seven simple ingredients: cucumbers, water, vinegar, salt, garlic, dill, and grape leaves. The grape leaves help cucumbers stay crisp.

The look: The pickle brine is full of good stuff, including tons of fresh dill fronds and garlic. The pickles are a pretty, pale green and are much more thinly sliced than the jarred pickles I sampled. They have the same ridges, and there's a bit more variety in the sizing, with some extra-long slices and other petite coins.

The taste: These pickles are garlicky! They're heavy on flavoring additions, including dill, and have an excellent snappy crunch. The thickness is ideal for slipping into a sandwich, and they'd add a great pop of savory flavor and saltiness to a juicy burger.

Bubbies Spicy Kosher Dill Pickles

I had to try at least one whole pickle variety, and this jar from Bubbies had some spice. These pickles are kept in a glass jar in the fridge and are preserved with hot peppers.

The look: This was the cloudiest pickle brine in the test, perhaps because of the added peppers. The whole cucumbers are picked with sliced red and green chilis.

The taste: Unless you sample a pepper on its own, these pickles aren't overwhelmingly hot. They have a nice, gentle heat and a good amount of crunch, though the centers of the cucumbers are a bit soft. The added spice and larger size make these cukes more interesting and satisfying as a snack on their own than some of the other more basic pickles in this test.

RELATED: Are Pickles Good for You? 7 Effects of Eating Them

Maille Original Cornichons

This elegant French jar contains the cutest little cucumbers that are just begging to be served on a luxurious appetizer board or in a savory cocktail.

The look: Rather than chips, spears, or slices, these pickles are whole cucumbers—adorable tiny ones, that is—also known as gherkins. The cukes are bumpy and hairy, but that's all part of their charm. The pickle brine is slightly cloudier in this jar than others, and the cucumbers are floating amongst tiny pickled pearl onions and a copious amount of red and yellow mustard seeds.

The taste: These tiny cukes are wonderfully snappy and savory. The sweet pickled onions make a nice addition, and despite having a slightly higher sodium content per serving, the pickles don't have an overwhelmingly salty flavor. Instead, you get a nice amount of allium flavor from the garlic and onions.

Horman's Kosher Dill Chips

I loved these refrigerated dill pickle chips' light, not-too-salty flavor, and crisp crunch. They'd easily elevate any sandwich or burger, but I'm happy eating them straight out of the jar.

The look: These pickles come in a tall plastic jar and must be refrigerated. They're in the middle of the thickness scale and have those deep ridges you expect from a classic pickle chip. The bright green center and darker skin color are all-natural.

The taste: These pickles are deeply savory and happily not overwhelmingly salty. They taste snappy and fresh, with a crisp texture that's not overcooked. I could easily snack on these as-is without developing an overwhelming thirst. The subtle garlic flavor is an excellent addition that keeps the flavor nuanced and refined-tasting.

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The post I Tried 7 Pickle Brands & The Best Was Crisp and Cold appeared first on Eat This Not That.