Walk down any snack aisle in Singapore and you’ll spot them — bags of crisps boasting “baked, not fried,” nut bars promising “no added sugar,” and granola bites labelled as “guilt-free.” With health-conscious living on the rise, the market for healthy snacks in Singapore is booming. But are these options truly as good for you as they seem?
Let’s decode the snack shelf together.
What Makes a Snack “Healthy” in Singapore?
With increasing health awareness, many brands market their products as guilt-free, natural, or low-fat. But here's the reality: a "healthy" label doesn't always equal a healthy choice.
Let’s look at a few common buzzwords you’ll see on snacks in Singapore:
- “No added sugar” – still can contain high natural sugar (like fruit purées).
- “Low fat” – sometimes compensates with more sugar or salt.
- “Natural” – not regulated; even highly processed snacks can claim this.
That’s why the Healthier Choice Symbol (HCS) by the Health Promotion Board is a more reliable marker. At Camel Nuts, we offer a wide selection of HCS-certified options so you can snack smarter.
Healthy Snacks vs. Weight Management Goals
When you’re trying to maintain or lose weight, it's not just about calories. Snack quality, portion size, and nutrient density matter too.
For example:
- Nuts and seeds are nutrient-rich and high in good fats and fiber — they promote satiety, which helps curb overeating.
- However, coated or flavored versions may be high in sodium or sugar, reducing their health benefits.
If weight management is your goal, opt for natural baked nuts, unsweetened dried fruits, and avoid heavy coatings or candy-style mixes.
Sodium & Sugar: What’s Safe?
Recommended Daily Limits:
| Nutrient | General Adult Limit (WHO) | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Sodium | < 2,000 mg (5g salt) | High sodium increases the risk of high blood pressure and heart disease |
| Sugar | < 25g (added sugar) | Too much added sugar contributes to obesity and metabolic issues |
| Saturated Fat | <10% of daily calories | Linked to cardiovascular issues |
Reference: WHO Dietary Guidelines
Special Note for Fitness Enthusiasts
If you lead an active lifestyle or exercise frequently, your sodium needs may differ.
"For most people, keeping sodium under 2,000mg daily is ideal — but if you're a fitness enthusiast or sweat heavily during workouts, a moderate sodium intake can help replenish electrolytes lost and support recovery."
Over-restricting sodium post-exercise can lead to hyponatremia, especially for endurance athletes. Look for snacks that offer balanced sodium without excessive added salts or coatings.
👀 Spot the Red Flags in Snack Marketing
Here’s what to watch out for when browsing the “healthy” aisle:
| Claim | What to Check |
|---|---|
| "High Protein" | Is it paired with high sodium or artificial additives? |
| "Low Fat" | Check if it compensates with added sugar |
| "Baked not fried" | Still check ingredients for palm oil or artificial flavours |
| "Gluten-Free" | Doesn’t mean low calorie or low sugar |
What to Look For Instead
To choose truly healthy snacks in Singapore, focus on these:
- Whole, minimally processed ingredients (like natural almonds or dates)
- No artificial preservatives or sweeteners
- Low sodium/sugar per serving
- Source of fibre and/or protein
Try bundles that are curated for different health goals, like:
- Mindful Diets – for lower sodium and sugar
- Fitness Recovery – for sustained energy and good fats
- Beauty & Nourishment – with antioxidant-rich fruits and nuts
Marketing can be persuasive — but your health choices should be intentional. Don’t rely solely on front-of-pack claims. Flip the pack, check the nutrition, and when in doubt, trust certified options like those under the Healthier Choice Symbol.
Explore our Healthier Choice Symbol collection to see how portion-controlled snacks can fit into your weight plan.
