Being a former snack-a-holic myself, I still go through periods of needing a good snack fix.  I’m not talking dessert, but those crunchy, salty things you can’t eat just one of.  You know what I’m talking about: potato chips, cheese doodles, nachos, and the like.
Growing up, my mom used to buy the Family Size Lay’s, Tostitos, Doritos, etc., and we could polish them off in one movie or game night.  During the week, though, we’d cut back with salty pretzels and “Fat Free” Pringles instead–you know, to be healthier.  What did we know?
Nowadays, I try to stay away from the “traditional” chips I grew up on and try to never sit down with a “Family Size” bag of anything.  Still, I like to crunch and munch with the best of them, especially on movie night.
Thankfully, as years pass, chips are becoming healthier and actually nutritious!  Tossing out your typical fried potato for baked bean, lentil, rice or even kale chips is the new thing.
Check out these 4 Chip Alternative Brands for your next indulgence!
1. Beanfields

This brand is all the rage, especially in the vegan community!  Bringing non-dairy, gluten-free, non-GMO and ethically sourced ingredients, Beanfields’ chips come in a wide variety of flavors that are reminiscent of your favorite not so good for you versions from childhood.  Love Doritos?  Try Beanfields’ Nacho and Ranch flavors.  I especially love their Barbeque flavor.  Smoky, sweet, but with a little kick — just how I love my chips!  The great thing about eating chips made predominantly of beans and rice is they’re much more filling!  You may overindulge due to the fantastic flavor alone, but with all of that fiber and protein in your body, you can only eat so much.
2. Beanitos
Like Beanfields, Beanitos’ main ingredients are beans and rice and pack 5 grams of fiber per serving.  Again, the Chipotle Barbeque is my absolute favorite.  Their Restaurant Style Tortilla Chips are also great!  As far as their cheese flavors, they’re not vegan, so I can’t offer any opinions.  I don’t recommend the Hot Chili Lime Puffs – overly spicy and sour that’s not pleasant at all.  As far as plain chips for dipping in salsa and guacamole goes, Beanitos is a good way to go!
3. ProTings
I dub these snacks the “Bodybuilder” chip.  With 15 grams of protein, ProTings are a good way to power up, but lack a bit of texture and flavor — think of a very thin pita chip.  While the company boasts the Spicy Chili Lime as its top flavor, I actually preferred the Toasted Sea Salt.  The Chili Lime and Tangy Southern BBQ were a little overdone with salty flavor that left me chugging water.  Still, I like the idea of a protein chip that’s great for an after workout snack.  I would just stick to the Toasted Sea Salt and slice up an avocado to go with it.
4. Veggie Booty by Pirate Brands

While I don’t totally think Pirate’s Booty has the healthiest ingredients, if I ever get a hankering for cheese doodles, their Veggie Booty somehow cures it.  Looking like green curls, this dairy-less snack is made with cornmeal, soy and rice with some vegetable powders that miraculously gives it a mild cheesy flavor.  Still a much better option than actual cheese doodles.
 *These are all personal opinions.  I’ve decided I’m not a Chili Lime person, so if you love that flavor combo – do try and let me know your thoughts!