Food & Recipes, Smart Shopping, Travel on a Budget

Snack attack: Checking out the latest snacks and *gasp* finding something healthy

Dust Cutter lemonade

When I think 7-Eleven, I usually think road trip snacks and last minute grabs for treats. Not the healthiest of fare, but more than suitable for a long ride or to quiet even the crankiest of passengers.

I was lucky enough to visit the 7-Eleven trade show, a showcase mostly for franchisees to bring new treats into their stores, and I left with a bag full of good—and sometimes not so healthy—choices. Here are some items you’ll find at your local 7-Eleven and likely other retailers:

Mario Snack Olives

These were wicked, especially the garlic Mario Camacho Snack Olives. Gluten-free, low-cal and packed in olive oil, the list goes on. Even single serve pickles! I’m dying to see these in every store.

Cheez-it Crunch'd

Cheez-its seem to keep reinventing themselves. These were super-flavorful and required lots of water to keep going!

The spicy-sweet trend is everywhere this year!

The spicy-sweet trend is everywhere this year!

Kind roasted jalapeno bar

I love Kind bars, and this savory roasted jalapeño bar was amazing. Is it just me, or does everything seem to have jalapeño in it?

Special K protein bars

Delicious flavors. Also check out the new oatmeal, which only requires hot water.

Cracker Jack'd

Wow, these Cracker Jack’d packs are delicious! A whole new take.

Sriracha Chex

Chex. Sriracha. You knew it had to happen. Pretty darn tasty.

Coca Cola

Also some lips on the other side. Coca-Cola just keeps going…

Jack-o Traveler Pumpkin Shandy

Loved this Jack-o Traveler Pumpkin Shandy, and I’m not one for pumpkin beers. Just delicious. Look for it soon!

Argo Tea teappucinos

Argo Tea is my favorite (and a Chicago original)! There are three new “teappucinos” that are lower calorie (100 and under!). Sugar didn’t overwhelm and flavor was pretty darn true to the cafes on the chai. Vegan ones coming soon (including my favorite maté laté!).

Just because. Beer salt.

Just because. Beer salt.

Bacon sunflower seeds

I actually didn’t try these. I’m sort of… scared.

Tic Tac Mixers

Tic Tac mixers. Cherry and cola and peach and lemonade. A bit odd, but this is a difficult product to remake! Look for the printed Tic Tacs at the holidays (just like M&Ms).

Sam Adams Octoberfest

Sam Adams Octoberfest is already here—too early!! But still a favorite here.

Bear Naked bar

I thought Bear Naked only made granola, but these bars were a great portable option, and have the same delicious flavor as their granola, without feeling like I’m eating a fancy candy bar or processed junk.

Dust Cutter lemonade

Made with pure cane sugar, Dust Cutter was a welcome tangy surprise, especially their Huckleberry.

Illy issimo drinks

I was doubtful of Illy issimo drinks since Starbucks’ are so sugary, but these had a great coffee flavor (as you expect from Illy) and less sugar – much preferable.

 

I attended the 7-Eleven National Coalition Convention and Trade Show as a guest of 7-Eleven. As always, all views are my own.