Smart Snacking Across Borders: Your Guide to Delicious, Health-Conscious Finds

Embarking on a weight loss journey, particularly one guided by programs like Weight Watchers, often means a constant quest for delicious yet compliant foods. As a regular traveler between Canada and the U.S., I’ve had the unique opportunity to explore grocery aisles on both sides of the border, uncovering a treasure trove of products that align perfectly with my healthy eating goals. I’m excited to share some of my favorite finds – everyday essentials and delightful treats that have become staples in my pantry. From savory snacks to sweet indulgences and hearty breakfasts, this guide will not only highlight where to purchase these items but also provide their SmartPoints and PointsPlus values, along with creative ideas to incorporate them into your daily routine. My aim is to inspire you to make informed and enjoyable choices, proving that a healthy lifestyle doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or variety.

Savory Snacks & Quick Bites for a Balanced Diet

Classic Pepperoni for Flavorful Meals

First on my list is a product that often gets a bad rap, but when chosen wisely and portioned correctly, can be a fantastic addition to many dishes: regular pepperoni. I’ll admit, I’ve never been a fan of turkey pepperoni or other reduced-fat alternatives; for me, the classic flavor is simply superior. This particular brand is a Canadian product, readily available at my local Fortino’s, and you should also be able to find it at most No Frills and Super Stores across Canada. It’s a versatile ingredient that adds a satisfying savory kick to various meals.

A serving of 20 slices (56g) comes in at 4 SmartPoints or 3 PointsPlus. The key, as with most foods, lies in mindful portion control. For instance, when I make my beloved English muffin pizzas, I typically use about 6 slices, which I count as 1 point. This modest amount provides ample flavor without accumulating excessive points, allowing for a delicious and satisfying snack or light meal that feels indulgent yet stays within my daily targets. Beyond pizzas, pepperoni can be diced and added to omelets, frittatas, salads for an extra protein boost, or even served alongside cheese and crackers for a quick, flavorful appetizer.

These English muffin pizzas are a go-to for me. With just 6 slices of pepperoni, they become a perfectly portioned, point-friendly meal.

Popcorners Corn Chips: A Satisfying Chip Alternative

Next up are these incredibly addictive Popcorners corn chips. They are truly “crazy good!” I typically stock up on these at Costco in Canada, and I’m quite confident they are available in the U.S. as well, often found in similar bulk retailers or even mainstream grocery stores. The large boxes are fantastic value, containing 27 individual 32g bags, perfect for portion control and on-the-go snacking. They come in three delightful flavors: Kettle, White Cheddar, and my absolute favorite, Sweet Chili. The Sweet Chili variety offers a fantastic blend of sweet and spicy, providing a satisfying kick that truly curbs those chip cravings without derailing your healthy eating efforts.

Each of the flavors is 4 SmartPoints. Breaking it down further, both the Kettle and White Cheddar flavors are 4 PointsPlus, while the Sweet Chili, surprisingly, is only 3 PointsPlus. These individual bags are brilliant for managing cravings, especially during those late-night snack attacks. Instead of reaching for a larger bag of conventional chips, a single bag of Popcorners offers that satisfying crunch and flavor experience within a controlled point budget. They are crispy, light, and deliver on flavor, making them an excellent choice for a healthier chip alternative. Whether you prefer sweet, savory, or spicy, there’s a Popcorners flavor to suit your mood.

Sweet Indulgences & Smart Treats for Cravings

The Magic of Marshmallow Fluff

Ah, marshmallow fluff! This delightful concoction truly holds a special place in my heart. Yes, I know it’s not exactly a health food, but I firmly believe in finding ways to enjoy the foods you love in moderation. If marshmallow fluff isn’t your thing, that’s perfectly fine, but for me, it’s a non-negotiable treat! I easily find this sticky-sweet spread at any of my local Canadian grocery stores. You’ll typically spot it near ice cream cones and toppings, though sometimes it might be shelved alongside peanut butters. For my friends in the U.S., you definitely have access to marshmallow fluff, possibly under a different brand, but the concept and deliciousness remain the same.

A serving of 2.5 tablespoons of marshmallow fluff is 2 SmartPoints or 1 PointPlus. Here’s my absolute favorite trick to make it go further: melt it! I pop it into the microwave for about 25 seconds. It will puff up and expand dramatically. Once melted, spread it quickly. This simple step transforms 2 tablespoons into a much larger, more satisfying spread, making a little bit of fluff feel like a lot. It’s an incredibly effective way to enjoy that sweet, gooey goodness without overdoing it on points.

And here are some of my favorite ways to use this magically expanded fluff on various snacks. The possibilities are truly endless, and I’m constantly dreaming up new applications. Try it as a dip for fresh fruit, spread on toast with a sprinkle of cinnamon, swirled into hot chocolate, or as a light topping for oatmeal. Its airy, sweet texture elevates any simple snack into a special treat. Enjoy experimenting with this delightful ingredient!

Hershey’s Mini Chipits: Small Chips, Big Flavor

One question I frequently receive is about the kind of mini chocolate chips I use in my recipes and snacks. My answer is always Hershey’s Mini Chipits. These tiny chocolate morsels are a game-changer when you want to add a touch of sweetness without going overboard on points.

I purchase these in the baking aisle of any major grocery store here in Canada. While I can only assume the U.S. offers them or a very similar alternative, their availability shouldn’t be an issue for most. A full tablespoon of these mini chips is 4 SmartPoints or 2 PointsPlus. However, a little goes a long way, especially with the “mini” size providing more chips per volume. I often use just half a tablespoon for 1 PointPlus, and for just 1 SmartPoint, a teaspoon is often more than enough to satisfy my chocolate craving. They are perfect for sprinkling over yogurt, oatmeal, pancakes, or even adding a tiny crunch to fruit salads. The small size ensures that you get chocolatey goodness in every bite, maximizing the satisfaction from a smaller portion.

Wholesome Breakfasts & Protein Power-Ups

Kodiak Cakes: Fueling Your Day with Protein

Kodiak Cakes have become a relatively recent, but absolutely essential, discovery in my life. I started using their waffle mixes about six months ago, and I simply cannot get enough of them! I primarily use their Protein-Packed Whole Grain Buttermilk mix, which offers a fantastic blend of flavor and nutrition. However, they offer several varieties, including options like whole wheat oat and chocolate chip, so I highly recommend checking the different boxes for nutritional information to determine the specific points value for your chosen mix. (On a side note, I recently received some of their new flavors to try, which are set to hit stores around April 17th, and I will definitely be featuring those in an upcoming post!)

For this specific Protein-Packed Buttermilk mix, half a cup is 5 SmartPoints and also 5 PointsPlus. When mixed with some water, this amount typically yields one satisfying waffle in my waffle maker. What truly impresses me about the protein-packed mix is how incredibly filling it is. If I start my day with a Kodiak Cake waffle, perhaps topped with some fresh fruit, I find myself completely content until lunchtime, with no nagging urge to snack. This sustained fullness is invaluable for maintaining energy levels and adhering to a healthy eating plan.

Finding Kodiak Cakes can sometimes be a bit of a treasure hunt, especially for my Canadian followers. They are widely available in the U.S., primarily at Target, with Costco often carrying larger, bulk boxes. While some of my fellow Canadian followers have reported finding them stocked at certain Costco locations, unfortunately, my local store doesn’t carry them. This means I make sure to stock up whenever I cross the border into the U.S. I truly cannot recommend these mixes enough; they are simply too good to pass up for a wholesome, delicious, and filling breakfast. Below, you can see some delicious creations like Blueberry Funfetti waffles and mini PB&J pancake muffins, with the recipe for the latter available here.

Dairy Delights & Flavorful Yogurts: My Top Picks

Dannon Light & Fit Yogurt: A Canadian’s Cross-Border Obsession

Finally, for this week’s product showcase, we have yogurt! I am a huge yogurt enthusiast, typically enjoying one to two servings daily. What I love even more is the ability to “spruce up” my yogurt with fun and flavorful toppings. This is one area where I initially found the transition to SmartPoints a bit challenging. With PointsPlus, I could easily add a variety of delicious toppings and still keep my yogurt a satisfying 4-point treat or snack. However, with SmartPoints, I found it harder to achieve the same balance, often resorting to simply adding zero-point fruits. This motivated me to get more creative and seek out better yogurt options.

Regrettably, Canada is significantly lacking in the yogurt department compared to the U.S., and I genuinely hope our selection catches up soon! This disparity is precisely why I buy most of my yogurt when I cross the border into the States. I get as giddy as a child in a candy store when I’m browsing the yogurt aisles there. The seemingly endless array of flavors is truly a dream for any yogurt lover. My only complaint is that the expiry dates can sometimes be a bit short, though perhaps that’s a blessing in disguise, or I’d be tempted to bring home hundreds of containers, no exaggeration!

Among the vast selection, I am particularly fond of the Dannon Light & Fit line, both their regular Greek yogurt and their delightful Greek Mousse varieties. These have become my go-to choices for their excellent flavor, texture, and favorable point values, making them perfect for my daily consumption.

The Dannon Light & Fit Greek Mousse yogurts are a delightful treat, coming in at 3 SmartPoints or 2 PointsPlus. Their light, airy texture feels incredibly indulgent. On the other hand, the regular Dannon Light & Fit Greek yogurts are even more budget-friendly at just 2 SmartPoints and 2 PointsPlus. And the best part? There are flavors galore for both varieties, ensuring you’ll never get bored! From classic vanilla to vibrant fruit flavors and decadent dessert-inspired options, there’s truly something for everyone.

I love to personalize my yogurt with various toppings. My favorite combinations include fresh fruit paired with a few mini chocolate chips for a touch of sweetness and crunch, or a dollop of light whipped cream alongside some kind of crunchy cookie. For example, those cinnamon graham goldfish crackers make an unexpected yet delicious addition, offering a satisfying texture contrast and a hint of spice. Experimenting with different toppings allows you to create a unique and exciting yogurt experience every time, keeping your taste buds happy and your healthy eating journey enjoyable.

Empower Your Health Journey with Smart Choices

Thank you for joining me on this tour of my favorite healthy grocery finds from both sides of the border. I hope these product recommendations and tips have given you some fresh ideas to integrate into your own weekly meal planning and snacking routines. Remember, the journey to better health and weight loss is a personal one, filled with discoveries and adjustments. Finding products that you genuinely enjoy and that align with your goals is crucial for long-term success and satisfaction. Wishing you all the very best on your continued weight loss journey, and I look forward to sharing more insights and delicious finds with you next week!