Disclosure: Some links in this guide are affiliate links. If you make a purchase, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products we love and think you will too. Thanks for your support!
Why Snacks Matter In The Corporate World?
In today’s busy corporate world, keeping productivity and morale high is key to a company’s success. Though often considered a minor perk, office snacks can greatly enhance employees' mood and overall experience during the workday. Not only having snacks but the right snacks can help keep energy levels up, prevent mid-day slumps, and encourage creativity, teamwork, and collaborative environments.
Good office snacks do more than just satisfy hunger and sweet teeth —they also help build a positive office atmosphere. Providing a variety of snacks is a simple yet meaningful way for a company to show it cares about its employee's health. Snacks can brighten the mood and create a more enjoyable workplace atmosphere. In this blog entry, we’ll explore why snacks are important in the workplace, how choosing the right ones can make your office a happier, more enjoyable place, and of course, share some of our favorite snack options.
Now you know why snacks matter in the busy corporate world but not all snacks are equally good and choosing the right ones can make a significant difference for your team. Next, we'll dive into how to select the best office snacks, taking into account factors like health, variety, and the specific needs of your team.
How to Choose The Right Snacks For Your Office
Choosing the right snacks for your office and coworkers is about more than just stocking the break room or snack bar with whatever is on sale. The choices you make can have a direct impact on your team’s energy levels and focus. Make sure to take into consideration the following aspects when choosing the best and right snack options for your team:
-Prioritize Health and Nutrition: Look for nutritious snacks to keep energy levels up and your team at their best productivity. Focus on snacks rich in protein, fiber, and healthy fats.
-Include Dietary Needs and Preferences: Ensure everyone in your office feels included by considering various dietary needs, such as vegan options, gluten-free items, and allergy-friendly snacks. This is a great way to promote a welcoming environment where everyone can enjoy a good snack that suits their preferences.
-Align Choices with Culture and Budget: Involve your team in choosing snacks and get their feedback on previous selections. Create a snack program that is convenient, varied, simple, and budget-friendly.
As you can see, having good office snacks isn't enough—you should aim for the most exceptional options to truly support your team’s well-being. Now let's dive into some specific recommendations Airpals has for you. Below, we'll explore a variety of snack categories to guide you on how to find the perfect fit for your team, ensuring everyone stays energized, satisfied, and motivated throughout the workday.
Outside the Box
If you're tired of the same old office snacks, it’s time to think outside the box. Give your team something exciting and different with these innovative snack options that will spark conversation and satisfy those cravings.
Snacks List:
-Justin’s Peanut Butter Cups: A delicious, guilt-free treat with organic ingredients. A must-try for peanut butter lovers! Try out Justin’s Peanut Butter Cups and experience the ultimate in chocolate and peanut butter perfection!
Image By Justin’s Brand
-Raspberry Yogurt Covered Pretzels: Sweet and tangy, these pretzels are a delightful twist on a classic snack. Enjoy the tasty crunch of Raspberry Yogurt Covered Pretzels for a sweet and salty combination that hits the spot!
Image By Nature's Garden Brand
-Smart Sweets: Perfect for those looking to satisfy a sweet tooth without the extra sugar. Grab some SmartSweets and enjoy a candy treat that’s lower in sugar and full of flavor!
Image By: Smart Sweets Brand on Amazon
Sweet Tooth Fix
These "Sweet Tooth Fix" snacks are the perfect solution for those moments when you need something sweet to get through the workday. They’re not just delicious, they’re also sure to bring a smile to everyone in the office. Here’s a selection of indulgent treats that will satisfy even the strongest sweet cravings!
Snacks List:
-Partake Cookies (vegan and gluten-free option): These vegan and gluten-free office snacks are soft, delicious, and perfect for a quick sweet fix. Grab Partake Cookies to satisfy your craving!
Image By: Partake Foods Brand on Amazon
-You Love Fruit Snacks (gluten-free option): Enjoy a variety of tropical flavors with these healthy fruit snacks. Indulge in the natural sweetness of You Love Fruit for a fruity and fun treat!
Image By: We Love Fruit Brand on Amazon
Airpals’ Picks
At Airpals, we understand that the right snacks can make all the difference in the workplace. That’s why we’ve curated a list of our top picks for a perfect office snack station. Here are our favorite office snacks that are sure to be a hit with everyone.
Snacks List:
-Lindt Lindor Chocolate Truffles: These rich and creamy chocolate truffles are perfect for a sweet escape during your workday. Treat yourself to Lindt Truffles and enjoy the luxury of fine chocolate!
Image By: Lindt Lindor Brand
-Kettle Potato Chips (gluten-free option): Crunchy and flavorful chips in a variety of delicious flavors. These chips are a perfect snack for any time. Grab a bag of Kettle Chips for a satisfying crunch.
Image By: Kettle Brand
-Skinny Popcorn (gluten-free option): A lighter alternative to traditional popcorn, Skinny Popcorn is a delicious and healthy option. Enjoy Skinny Popcorn for a healthy and flavorful snack!
Image By: SkinnyPop Brand on Amazon
Healthy Heroes
These "Healthy Heroes" are not just packed with nutrition but also deliver on taste, ensuring that your office snacks are both satisfying and guilt-free. Here’s a lineup of healthy office snacks to share that will keep everyone in the office happy and healthy.
Snack List:
-Biena Chickpea snacks (vegan option): Crunchy, protein-packed snack that’s perfect for a midday boost. Biena Chickpeas are high in fiber and low in calories, making them a great alternative to traditional office snacks like chips.
Image By: Biena Brand
-Planters Peanuts Cashews: Cashews are a classic healthy snack that everyone loves. Packed with healthy fats, and protein Planters Cashews are an excellent choice for those who need a quick and filling snack. We recommend the Rosemary and Sea Salt flavor, believe us, this unique and tasty flavor will blow your mind!
Image By: Planters Brand
-Kind Bars (gluten-free option): Made with wholesome ingredients like nuts, fruits, and dark chocolate, Kind Bars are the perfect blend of taste and nutrition. Plus, they’re gluten-free and contain no artificial preservatives, making them a top choice for health-conscious snackers.
Image By: KIND Brand on Amazon
Good Ol' Classics
Sometimes, nothing beats the familiar comfort of a classic snack. These "Good Ol' Classics" have stood the test of time for a reason, they're delicious, reliable, and always hit the spot. These popular office snacks are perfect for any occasion while keeping everyone satisfied.
Snacks List:
-Blue Diamond Almonds: A timeless favorite, Blue Diamond Almonds offer a satisfying crunch that's perfect for a midday snack. High in protein, rich in healthy fats, and low in sodium, these almonds are not only delicious but also nutritious, making them a staple in any office.
Image By: Blue Diamond Almonds Brand on Amazon
-Nature's Garden Trail Mix: For a delightful mix of sweet and savory, Nature's Garden Trail Mix is your go-to snack. This mix features a delicious blend of nuts, dried fruit, and sometimes even a little chocolate—ideal for keeping your energy up throughout the day.
Image By: Natures Garden Brand
-Bob’s Brach's Peppermint Candy (gluten and fat-free option): Need a refreshing pick-me-up? Bob's Peppermint Candy offers a cool, minty burst of flavor that not only freshens your breath but also gives you a quick, sweet treat. These individually wrapped candies are a classic office snack, perfect for sharing or keeping on your desk whenever you need a small treat.
Image By: Ferrara Candy Shop Brand
-Stacy's Pita Chips: If you are looking for a snack that pairs perfectly with hummus or stands strong on its own, Stacy's Pita Chips are the go-to choice. These chips are baked, not fried, offering a healthier alternative to traditional chips without sacrificing flavor. Their subtle seasoning makes them a versatile option that’s perfect for any snacking occasion.
Image By: Stacy’s Snacks Brand
Global Goodies
Take a snack trip around the world without leaving your desk. These international treats bring global flavors right to your office, perfect for adventurous snackers who love to try something new!
Snacks List:
-Kiwa Vegetable Chips (vegan and gluten-free option): Sourced sustainably and made from ingredients like sweet potato, beetroot, parsnip, and plantain, Kiwa chips are a healthier snack option with an exotic twist. They’re packed with flavor and crunch, making them a great alternative to regular potato chips.
Image By: Kiwa Life Brand
-Masa Tortilla Chips: Crunchy and satisfying, these Masa Tortilla Chips are a must-have for any office snack station. Made from traditional ingredients like yellow corn, tallow, and salt, they are perfect on their own or paired with your favorite salsa or guacamole.
Image By: Masa Chips Brand
-Pocky Sticks Green Tea Flavor: A beloved Japanese snack, Pocky Sticks are crunchy biscuit sticks coated with a creamy matcha green tea layer. They offer a delightful blend of sweet and earthy flavors, and they are a fun and delicious way to add a little international flair to your snack rotation.
Image by: Ezaki Glico Brand on Amazon
Managing Office Snack Budgets
Managing a budget is always complicated, even when it comes to snacks. Balancing quality snacks while keeping costs low or under control can sometimes be challenging. The best approach is to start by setting a clear budget, whether for the first month, three months, or the year, and stick to it. To make the most of your budget, take into account any preferences and dietary needs of your employees, coworkers, or team, while also offering the best office snacks with good quality and overall health benefits. Be strategic, not everyone will like everything but that is your opportunity to create a program that meets your team's needs without compromising your budget or making the company overspend.
Another key aspect is monitoring consumption patterns, tracking the favorite snacks, and identifying the ones that are always left behind. This way, you can pinpoint the best office snacks for your team. This process will help you gather data to focus on the popular snacks and control expenses by only purchasing those that maximize satisfaction and reduce waste on the least favorite snacks.
Additionally, consider the size of your team when planning the snack budget; for instance, a smaller team might only need a few snacks each month, while a larger team could require a more substantial and diverse selection. A good rule of thumb could be to plan for 2 snacks per person daily and adjust your order size accordingly. By keeping an eye on these numbers, you can optimize your snack orders over time and ensure you don't overspend or run out of snacks. Remember, you can always adjust your snack program to make the most out of it.
As you can see, creating the ideal office snack station isn't as easy as purchasing whatever is on sale; it is a thoughtful process that, when done correctly, will impact and benefit everyone on the team without compromising quality, budget, health, or employee satisfaction.
Tips for Cost-Effective Snack Procurement
Following these simple tips will help you get the ideal snacks program for your team:
- Set a Budget: Establish a clear budget to control costs and stick to it.
- Focus on Preferences: Choose snacks that match your team’s tastes, dietary needs, and any specific preferences from employees.
- Monitor Consumption: Track which snacks are popular and cut out the ones that aren’t.
- Buy in Bulk: Purchase the most popular consumed snacks in bulk to save money.
- Vary Snack Choices: Keep things fresh by rotating snacks and taking advantage of seasonal products or discounts.
- Review and Adjust: Regularly check your snack program to ensure it meets your team's needs without exceeding your budget.
- Prioritize Quality and health benefits: Offer a smaller selection of high-quality snacks that are more likely to be enjoyed.
- Ask for Feedback: Ask your team for input to refine your snack choices.
Final Thoughts on Office Snack Selection
Choosing the right snacks for your office is a thoughtful process that can significantly enhance workplace morale and productivity. By prioritizing health, considering diverse dietary needs, and maintaining variety, you can create a snack program with good office snacks that not only satisfy your team but also contribute to a positive and inclusive work environment. A well-designed snack program will demonstrate your commitment to employee well-being and has the potential to encourage a more motivated and cohesive team.
FAQ’s
What are the best office snacks?
The best office snacks are those that are convenient, satisfying, and cater to a variety of tastes and dietary preferences. Popular options include nuts, fruit, almond bars, yogurt, chips, cookies, and popcorn. These snacks are easy to store, provide a good balance of nutrients, and can help keep employees energized throughout the day.
What’s an Office Snack Box?
An office snack box is a select collection of snacks designed for workplace convenience. It typically includes a variety of healthy, tasty, and popular options like nuts, granola bars, dried fruit, and crackers. These boxes can be customized to suit dietary preferences and, in many cases, they are delivered directly to the office.
What Is An Office Snack Station?
An Office Snack Station is a designated area within the office where snacks are available for employees to access. The goal is to provide a convenient location where employees can grab a quick snack without having to leave the office. It can also serve as a social hub, encouraging employees to take breaks and interact with one another.
What are some healthy office snacks to share?
Healthy office snacks for sharing include options low in sugar and high in nutrients. Some popular choices include mixed nuts, fresh fruit platters, veggie chips, whole grain crackers, and yogurt cups. Our Healthy Heroes options comment before included cashews, chickpea snacks, and Almond and Sea Salt Bars.
Why should you provide office snacks for employees?
Providing office snacks for employees is a simple way to boost morale and energize everyone throughout the day. Snacks can create a more welcoming and relaxed office vibe, encourage social interaction, and can be a cost-effective perk that enhances employee satisfaction and well-being.
How much budget do I need to manage to offer snacks?
To manage an office snack budget effectively, start by setting a clear budget that aligns with your financial constraints, whether for a month, three months, or a year. Focus on choosing snacks that cater to your team's preferences and dietary needs to ensure satisfaction while minimizing waste. Likewise, consider the size of your team and how many snacks they might consume daily to avoid overbuying or running out of snacks. You should regularly review your snack program and adjust as needed to stay within budget.
What snacks do people bring to the office?
People often bring snacks like homemade baked goods, fresh fruit, mixed nuts, or leftovers from home. Some may also bring special snacks, such as protein bars and vegan or gluten-free options to share with their colleagues. The choice of snacks can vary based on personal preferences and dietary needs.