Top 10 Keto-Friendly Snacks

Have you ever been out and forgot to pack lunch? Or are you traveling and out of your routine and need to find keto snacks? 

I’ve compiled this Keto Snack Guide (South African) with lots of options for keto snacks when you have to grab something from the shops and a whole list of ideas for making them at home. The list is by no means comprehensive, and I am sure there are other snacks that you can think of. On the “BUY-IN-STORE” snack list, I have also included some not-so-good options. I’ve added them here on purpose, just so that you can see that your options are not always that limited. 

These snack options are helpful additions when you find yourself in a bind and need something quick. Use them as a backup plan rather than a regular part of your eating routine. By focusing on nutrient-dense meals and using these snacks strategically, you can enjoy the convenience without compromising your keto goals.

If you like the guide, then feel free to share it with family and friends or on social media!

Store-Bought Keto Snacks

1.Biltong and Droewors

You can’t go wrong with biltong or droewors. Just make sure the product does not contain added sugar when you buy it in-store. When you get it from your local butcher, you can opt for a nice, fresh piece with a good chunk of fat and have it sliced to your desired thickness.

2. Cheese

Most types of cheese are good on keto. Just watch out for processed cheese or grated cheese, as they tend to have fillers and preservatives.

3. Nuts

Most nuts are also fine on keto. Just watch some of the nuts, like cashews, as they are higher in carbs. I prefer roasted and salted nuts for the extra salt. Also, be wary of flavored nuts and read the ingredient label to make sure there are no funny additions. Remember that peanuts are not really nuts; they are legumes and higher in carbs. My personal favorite is macadamia nuts.

4. Nut Butters

A very convenient snack! A tablespoon of nut butter is hugely satisfying. Watch out for added honey in some brands.

5. Chocolate

Anything over 80% dark chocolate is okay on keto. More brands are offering chocolates made with keto-friendly alternative sweeteners like stevia. Carb Smart makes a variety of bars with milk chocolate, dark chocolate, milk chocolate with macadamia nuts and even white chocolate.

6. Seaweed Snacks & Kale Chips

Not a huge fan, but some people like them. Remember to read the label for any other funny ingredients. Woolies has Wasabi and Olive Oil flavored Seaweed that contain no MSGs.

7. Deli Snacks

These little packets of cheese, ham and boiled eggs are super convenient to grab on the go.

8. Pork Rinds & Keto Crisps

A personal favorite of mine, but some brands have added spices that aren't keto-friendly. Check your local butcher for a cleaner option. These keto crisp from Carb Smart are the latest edition to their products.

1. Cacao Nibs

Not my favorite, but some people prefer them over chocolate.

1. Low-carb Bars

It is convenient but often contains not-so-friendly sweeteners like maltodextrin and maltitol. Check labels and don’t make it a staple in your diet.

 Homemade Keto Snacks

Anything you make at home is always better than store-bought stuff. Shelf-stable foods often contain added sugars and preservatives. Making your own snacks may require extra effort, but it’s worth it. Be prepared with homemade keto snacks, especially for events like a braai, to avoid temptation.

1.Deviled Eggs / Hardboiled Eggs

These little snacks are making a comeback. Add a little hot sauce and crispy bacon for a delicious keto-friendly snack.

2. Crispy Cheese Chips

Easy to make and worth the effort.

3. Keto Seed Crackers

Super easy to make without the added ingredients in store-bought crackers.

1. Fat Bombs

Go wild on the sweet stuff! Pinterest "fat bombs" for thousands of options. One of my favorites is Keto Macadamia Fudge blocks.

1. Fathead Dough Cheese Sticks

Fathead dough is super versatile for making bready, pizza, and muffin-like items.

1. Bacon

Good old bacon! Need I say more?

1. Melted Cheese

A quick and easy snack. Grate some cheese, pop it in the microwave, and you’re done.

1. Caramel Coated Pecans

Worth being on the list. Check out the recipe here.

1. Veggie Sticks

Celery, cucumber, and carrots make great snacks. Woolies has a Hummus Dipper Snack to-go. Veggie sticks are also great for a charcuterie board.

1. Mini Frikkadels

Make extra ground beef or chicken and prepare mini-frikkadels for a snack, work lunch, or potluck.

Conclusion

With these top 10 keto-friendly snacks, you can curb your cravings and stay on track, whether you're at home, at a party, or on the go. However, it's important to remember that snacking is not ideal on a keto diet. It's always best to eat well-balanced keto meals that combine fat and protein to keep you satisfied and maintain your energy levels.

Feel free to share this guide with family and friends or on social media. Be sure to check out my social media platforms for more helpful guides and everything keto! Together, we can make keto both convenient and enjoyable while staying committed to our health goals.