Smart Shopping: Discovering Low-Point & Weight Watchers Friendly Foods Across Borders

Navigating the grocery aisles with a focus on health and mindful eating, especially when following a points-based system like Weight Watchers, can sometimes feel like a treasure hunt. These past few weeks have simply flown by, and with my commitment to sharing valuable insights, I’m delighted to present another installment of my weekly product reviews. My goal is to equip you with smart choices that not only support your health goals but also delight your palate. This curated list includes a fantastic mix of products I regularly purchase, both here in Canada, where I reside, and during my cross-border shopping excursions into the United States. Finding these low-point gems has been a game-changer for my journey, and I hope they become staples in your kitchen too, helping you discover items you might be looking for to simplify your healthy lifestyle.

Point-Friendly Bacon: Indulge Without Guilt

In my humble opinion, bacon isn’t just a food; it’s practically its own food group, and one we need in abundance! I absolutely adore bacon—its crispy texture and savory flavor are simply irresistible. However, traditional, full-fat bacon, as delicious as it is, tends to be quite high in points, making it a challenging choice when you’re trying to stay within your daily allowance. When I first embarked on my health and wellness journey several years ago, a major priority was finding a point-friendly bacon that didn’t compromise on taste or satisfaction. Frankly, I’m not a fan of turkey bacon; I’d much rather allocate a few extra points for a genuinely enjoyable experience than force myself to eat something I don’t love. My persistence paid off when I discovered Oscar Mayer Center Cut Bacon during one of my cross-border shopping trips. It has since become a non-negotiable item on my grocery list.

You can typically find Oscar Mayer Center Cut Bacon at Walmart in the U.S. What makes it a standout is its lean profile. Just two slices amount to only 1 point plus (or 1 SmartPoint each on the newer Weight Watchers system). This makes it an incredibly accessible option for adding that beloved bacon flavor to your meals without derailing your progress. While Target also offers a similar center-cut bacon under their own Market Pantry brand, also at 1 point plus or 1 SmartPoint for two slices, I must confess, the Oscar Mayer version holds a special place in my heart. Its flavor and texture are simply superior. A quick note on pricing: while it’s a fantastic low-point option, it unfortunately isn’t the cheapest item on the shelf, but for the satisfaction it brings, I find it well worth the investment.

Beyond Breakfast: Versatile Bacon Delights

This center-cut bacon cooks up beautifully, achieving that perfect crispiness without excessive grease. It’s not just for breakfast either; while it shines alongside eggs and toast, its versatility extends to many other meals. Consider crumbling it over a fresh salad for a burst of smoky flavor, adding it to a low-point sandwich or wrap, or even incorporating it into a savory omelet or frittata. The possibilities are truly endless, allowing you to enjoy the taste of bacon in a variety of healthy contexts.

Below, I’ve pictured a fantastic low-point breakfast that truly highlights this bacon: chicken sausage (a product I’ve reviewed in another weekly feature), deliciously fried onions and peppers, two slices of this amazing center-cut bacon, a single slice of whole-wheat toast, and a vibrant medley of fresh berries. This entire plate clocks in at a satisfying 5 points plus, or 6 SmartPoints, proving that a wholesome and hearty breakfast can absolutely be point-friendly and incredibly delicious.

Egg Roll & Wonton Wrappers: Your Secret Weapon for Healthy Meals

Egg roll wrappers, and their smaller counterparts, wonton wrappers, are ingredients I find myself reaching for time and time again. They are incredibly versatile and can transform simple fillings into delightful, point-friendly meals. However, I’ve noticed that many people struggle to locate them in their local grocery stores, often overlooking them or not knowing where to search. Here in Canada, I consistently find my preferred brand at either my local Fresco or No Frills supermarkets. Interestingly, I’ve never spotted them at Walmart Canada, nor have I specifically looked for them during my shopping trips across the border, though I am certain they are widely available in the U.S.

A key tip for finding these wrappers: don’t head to the dry goods aisle. In my experience, they are almost always located in the refrigerated produce section, often near fresh herbs, tofu, or specialty cheeses. My go-to brand typically comes in at 2 points plus and 2 SmartPoints per wrapper, which makes them a fantastic foundation for a variety of creative, low-point dishes. Their thin, pliable nature makes them ideal for baking or air-frying, significantly reducing the need for excess oil and keeping the point count down.

Creative Uses for Wrappers: From Savory to Sweet

The culinary possibilities with these wrappers are extensive. I’ve developed several popular recipes using them, transforming everyday ingredients into exciting, point-friendly meals. A prime example, pictured below, is my famous bacon cheeseburger rolls. These savory delights are incredibly satisfying and clock in at just 3 SmartPoints or 3 points plus each. Imagine all the flavor of a cheeseburger, wrapped in a crispy, baked shell—it’s pure genius for a low-point meal or snack!

Beyond these, egg roll wrappers can be used for so much more. Think about making lightened-up spring rolls, mini baked pizzas, savory hand pies, or even using them as a substitute for pasta in a deconstructed lasagna. For a sweet treat, fill them with fruit and a sprinkle of cinnamon, then bake until golden and crisp for a delicious, low-point dessert. Their ability to hold various fillings while remaining light and crispy makes them a true asset in any health-conscious kitchen.

Oreo Thins: The Perfect Point-Friendly Treat

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle doesn’t mean you have to forgo all your favorite treats. In fact, allowing for occasional, mindful indulgences can be key to long-term success. That’s why I was absolutely thrilled when Oreo Thin cookies finally made their way to Canadian grocery store shelves! For a long time, I had to stock up on them exclusively during my trips to the U.S., so their widespread availability here has been a welcome change.

Currently, in Canada, we primarily have access to the classic regular and Golden Oreo Thin flavors, at least from what I’ve observed; the mint variety, which is a favorite for many, has yet to make a consistent appearance. But even with these core offerings, they are incredibly good! Oreo Thins offer the classic flavor you love, but in a delicate, crispier format that helps with portion control and fits much more easily into a points-based eating plan. They are the quintessential point-friendly treat when a cookie craving strikes, offering that satisfying crunch and sweetness without the heavy point penalty of their thicker counterparts. On the older Points Plus system, one cookie is a mere 1 point, and for those following SmartPoints, two cookies will set you back just 3 SmartPoints. This makes them an ideal choice for a small dessert with a cup of tea or coffee, or simply as a moment of sweet indulgence during your day.

Laughing Cow Cheese Spreads: Creamy, Flavorful & Low-Point

Another absolute staple in my low-point pantry is Laughing Cow cheese spreads. These individually wrapped cheese wedges are nothing short of brilliant. They are consistently low in points, incredibly versatile, and come in a delightful array of flavors, making them perfect for adding a creamy texture and savory punch to snacks and meals without significant caloric or point contributions. The portion control aspect is also a huge advantage, preventing overconsumption while still providing a satisfying dairy treat.

In Canada, one of my absolute favorite flavors is the Jalapeño. It offers a fantastic, zesty kick that truly elevates any snack. I don’t believe this specific Jalapeño flavor is available in the U.S., but I understand they do offer a similar spicy variety, ensuring American shoppers can still enjoy that touch of heat. These wedges are a game-changer for those seeking flavorful, point-friendly options.

Versatile & Delicious: Ways to Enjoy Laughing Cow Cheese

The Jalapeño flavor, like many Laughing Cow varieties, is incredibly point-friendly, coming in at just 2 SmartPoints or 1 point plus for two triangles. This makes them an excellent choice for a quick snack. They’re fantastic spread on whole-grain crackers, paired with fresh vegetable sticks like carrots or celery, or even slathered onto a rice cake for a satisfying crunch. Their creamy texture and bold flavor make them far from boring.

Beyond simple snacking, I’ve incorporated them into more elaborate, yet still low-point, recipes. For instance, I used them to create these absolutely delicious cheesy bacon roll ups, which were a huge hit! You can also spread them on a warm tortilla with some lean protein for a quick wrap, stir them into scrambled eggs for added creaminess, or even use them as a base for a light, savory dip. They are a brilliant way to add flavor and satisfaction without accumulating excessive points, making healthy eating both easy and enjoyable.

Gay Lea Light Whipping Cream: A Touch of Sweet Indulgence

Small indulgences can make a significant difference in adhering to a healthy eating plan. For me, a dollop of light whipped cream on my fruit is one such simple pleasure I rarely skip. If you follow my culinary adventures on Instagram or Facebook, you’ll likely notice that I top my fruit with whipped cream almost every single time! It’s just a small amount, but it adds a luxurious touch that truly enhances the experience of eating fruit, transforming a simple snack into a delightful dessert.

Here in Canada, I consistently purchase Gay Lea light whipping cream. It’s readily available at any of my local grocery stores and can typically be found in the refrigerated dairy section, alongside milk and other creams. What makes this product so fantastic for point-friendly eating is its impressive nutritional profile. A generous serving size of 4 tablespoons (Tbsp) is only 1 SmartPoint and 1 point plus. Since I personally follow the Points Plus system, where I use an amount equivalent to about 2 Tbsp, it registers as 0 points for me. For those on the SmartPoints system, that same 2 Tbsp portion would still be just 1 point, making it an incredibly low-impact way to add richness and sweetness.

Elevating Everyday Desserts & Drinks

This light whipping cream is not just for fruit. It’s a versatile ingredient that can elevate many other low-point desserts and beverages. Imagine a swirl on top of a warm mug of sugar-free hot cocoa, a touch of creaminess in your iced coffee, or as a light topping for a baked apple or a small piece of angel food cake. It allows you to enjoy those comforting, indulgent moments without derailing your health goals. The key is mindful portioning, and with such a low point value, it’s easier than ever to incorporate this delightful addition into your daily routine. It’s these small, satisfying touches that make the journey to a healthier lifestyle sustainable and truly enjoyable.

Final Thoughts on Smart & Savvy Grocery Shopping

And that concludes this week’s roundup of my favorite point-friendly grocery finds! My hope is that by sharing these staples from my own shopping cart, I can inspire you to explore new options and make informed choices that align with your health and wellness objectives. Remember, successful healthy eating isn’t about deprivation; it’s about making smart swaps, discovering delicious alternatives, and finding joy in the foods you eat. Whether you’re navigating the aisles in Canada or the U.S., there are always fantastic products out there waiting to be discovered that can help you stay on track without feeling restricted. Keep an eye out for these items on your next shopping trip, and feel free to experiment with how you incorporate them into your own meals and snacks.

Thank you for joining me on this culinary tour, and I look forward to sharing more of my discoveries with you. Be sure to check back next week for another exciting installment of point-friendly product reviews!