Raw snacks are dominating the ‘Free-From’ supermarket aisles, but how do they taste? Happiful gave them a whirl
Thought to have originated in Switzerland in the late 1800s, “raw eating” is all about taking healthy eating to the next level. Raw foods are not heated above 40°C, so as to preserve all the nutrients and enzymatic value. They’re also made with unprocessed ingredients, often making them vegan and gluten-free. The health claims are bold, with raw food diets being associated with decreased risks of cancer, heart attacks and strokes. But how does raw food hold up at snack time? Happiful put eight raw treats to the test to find out what bites.
A “raw” twist on classic millionaire’s shortbread. RRP: £5.50
The Verdict:
Taste: 3.5/5
Look: 4.5/5
Packaging: 3.5/5
“It has a strong chocolate flavour and didn’t taste like ‘raw’ food at all!” - Lou
“It was a nice alternative, but wouldn't replace a normal version for me. It wasn't as sweet and had more of a raisin flavour. Was much better than I thought it would be though.” - Carl
Small fruit ad nut bites, made from sprouted sunflower, buckwheat seeds, almonds and sweet dried fruits. RRP: £1.19
The Verdict:
Taste: 2/5
Look: 1/5
Packaging: 5/5
"I wouldn't choose these over my normal snacks, to be honest. But they do go well wit green tea! The taste is unique." - Lauren
“Didn't like the flavour at all and I couldn't taste any cinnamon. Didn't like the texture either. Definitely would not purchase.” - Becky
Dehydrated kale “chips” seasoned with garlic and black pepper. RRP: £2.39
The Verdict:
Taste: 4/5
Look: 3/5
Packaging: 4/5
“It tasted nice, but a bit too strong a flavour for me. I’m not sure I could eat a whole bag.” – Kat
“I really liked these and would choose them again. Great texture and substantial flavour. If you're looking for a salty 'hit' they are great.”- Hannah
A dehydrated cracker with strong thyme and nut notes. RRP: £5.49
The Verdict:
Taste: 4.5/5
Look: 3.5/5
Packaging: 4/5
“If you like thyme (and nuts), you'll love this; so much flavour and amazing texture too.” – Amy
“This was an odd one – it took me a couple of bites to decide whether I liked it! At first I wasn't sure, but after a couple more tastes, it was good. I think it'd be great with some humous or dip – just to add another texture.”- Ellen
A soft fruit and nut bar with a chocolate orange flavour. RRP: £0.75
The Verdict:
Taste: 5/5
Look: 5/5
Packaging: 3/5
“It's a great snack for grabbing on the go and really filling.” – Amie
“Cocoa is a bit strong but I think thats on par for these kind of bars. Was actually delicious – would buy again!”- Ben
Sweet "chocolate" made by blending cacao butter, Peruvian lucuma, and Ugandan vanilla. RRP: £2.29
The Verdict:
Taste: 4/5
Look: 3/5
Packaging: 4/5
“Kind of reminded me of malt loaf. A little strange but would try again.” – James
“As a self-confessed chocoholic, I was surprised at how good this was! Tasted just as satisfying as regular chocolate. It would definitely be a good alternative, however there are some times when only "standard" chocolate will do.”- Kat N
The Verdict:
Taste: 4/5
Look: 3/5
Packaging: 5/5
“The packaging was really cute! The snack was tasty and it's great that it's healthy too.” - Kim
“It looked like something you put in a bird-feeder. It was both horribly squishy and extremely hard in places. It just tasted like old raisins.” - Bonnie
The Verdict:
Taste: 4/5
Look: 3/5
Packaging: 2/5
“Pretty good – the taste and texture is similar to the Nakd bars.” - Ross
“Smells nice, like a jar of raisins and taste a little bit like Christmas cake, rather than flapjack. Impressed that it’s 1 of your 5 a day, but feels a little like a naughty snack.” - Steve
In our 49 reviews, only 22% had heard of these snack brands, and yet after trying them, 77% said they would consider buying the snacks again. While some of our team found these healthy treats “didn’t match up” to the regular afternoon snacks, 68% of us said “yes” or “maybe” to choosing a raw snack over an unhealthy one. Overall, Happiful enjoyed the raw treat test, but we’ll definitely skip the Raw Maca & Cinnamon Munchies next time they go round the office.
You can find these raw snacks in major supermarkets, or online at planetorganic.com
Tickled your tastebuds? Tweet us your thoughts @happifulhq
