Nourishing Paleo and Gluten Free Snacks Kids Will Love

Are you a parent constantly searching for **delicious, healthy, and convenient snack ideas** that your children will actually love? Navigating the world of **gluten-free, grain-free, and paleo options** can be challenging, especially when you want to ensure your kids are fueling their bodies with wholesome ingredients. Look no further! This comprehensive guide is packed with fantastic **homemade and store-bought paleo snacks** that are not only **kid-approved** but also embraced by parents for their nutritional value and simplicity.

A vibrant collage showcasing a variety of healthy, kid-approved gluten-free and paleo snack ideas, perfect for busy families.

As a parent, I understand the constant quest for nourishing snacks that don’t compromise on taste. It’s easy for kids to gravitate towards processed junk food, but by prioritizing nutrient-dense options, we can significantly impact their energy levels, cognitive function, and overall long-term health. Over the years, I’ve dedicated myself to crafting a wide array of both **savory and sweet paleo snacks** that have become undisputed favorites in our household – even amongst their friends! These recipes are designed to be both satisfying and packed with goodness, ensuring your little “Nomsters” get the best possible fuel for their day.

Life gets busy, and sometimes, whipping up **homemade healthy snacks** from scratch isn’t feasible. That’s perfectly alright! We’ve also curated a list of our absolute favorite **store-bought paleo and gluten-free snacks** that are readily available online or at your local grocery store. This means you can effortlessly keep your pantry and fridge stocked with wholesome choices, making healthy eating a breeze for the entire family. Whether you’re a seasoned chef eager to experiment in the kitchen or a busy parent looking for quick grab-and-go solutions, prepare to transform your snack game with these incredible options. Let’s dive into a world of guilt-free, delicious snacking that everyone will adore!

Delightful Savory Paleo Snacks: Homemade Recipes Your Family Will Crave

Who doesn’t love a fantastic savory treat? From creamy dips perfect for crunchy raw veggies to crispy, satisfying chips, wholesome savory snacks are essential for keeping hunger at bay between meals. These recipes offer incredible flavor without compromising on your **paleo, gluten-free, or grain-free lifestyle**. They are packed with nutrients, easy to prepare, and sure to become staple favorites in your home. Get ready to elevate your snack game with these family-approved options you can effortlessly make right in your kitchen!

Tonnato Sauce: A Surprisingly Delicious Dip

Don’t let the unique ingredients deter you – this creamy and tangy Tonnato Sauce, made with anchovies, capers, and canned tuna, boasts a flavor profile that is truly exceptional and far superior to what you might imagine. It offers a rich umami depth that is incredibly satisfying. This versatile sauce is not only **Whole30- and keto-friendly** but also pairs magnificently with a variety of dippers. Serve it alongside crisp raw vegetables like cucumber, celery, or bell peppers for a refreshing crunch, or enjoy it with your favorite **grain-free crackers**. It’s also fantastic drizzled over roasted meats or fish, adding a gourmet touch to any dish. Simple to prepare, Tonnato Sauce is a sophisticated yet easy snack that will impress even the most discerning palates.

Tonnato Sauce by Michelle Tam / Nom Nom Paleo

Tonnato Sauce

Tonnato is a creamy, tangy sauce made with anchovies, capers, and canned tuna. It’s so simple to make and tastes delicious drizzled on veggies and roasted meat! Don’t doubt it, try it!

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Vibrant Beet Hummus (Chickpea-Free)

Add a pop of color and nutrition to your snack plate with this stunning Beet Hummus. This naturally sweet and earthy dip is a fantastic way to encourage kids (and adults!) to eat more vegetables, thanks to its eye-catching pink hue and delightful flavor. What makes this recipe truly outstanding is that it’s completely **paleo, vegan, and Whole30-friendly**, making it an inclusive option for various dietary needs. Unlike traditional hummus, it’s entirely chickpea-free, offering a unique twist while still delivering a creamy, satisfying texture. Serve it with crunchy carrot sticks, cucumber slices, or use it as a vibrant spread in lettuce wraps. It’s a healthy, simple, and utterly delicious dip that proves healthy eating can be both fun and flavorful.

Beet Hummus by Michelle Tam / Nom Nom Paleo

Beet Hummus Without Chickpeas (Paleo & Whole30!)

This vibrant beet hummus is creamy, flavorful, and completely chickpea-free! Made with simple ingredients, it’s Paleo, Whole30, and dairy-free—perfect for dipping or spreading. Try this easy and nutritious twist on classic hummus!

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Irresistible Sweet Potato and Cashew Dip

Prepare for a new obsession with this unbelievably creamy and flavorful Sweet Potato and Cashew Dip. Infused with aromatic curry spices, this dip is incredibly addictive – our family consistently devours a fresh batch almost immediately! It’s a fantastic **Whole30 and vegan-friendly** option that offers a rich, comforting taste. The natural sweetness of the sweet potato combined with the creaminess of cashews creates a harmonious blend that’s hard to resist. Serve this delightful dip with an assortment of raw vegetable sticks, roasted sweet potato wedges, or even as a unique spread for paleo sandwiches. It’s a brilliantly satisfying snack that’s both nourishing and incredibly tasty, making it a perfect addition to your healthy snack repertoire.

Sweet Potato and Cashew Dip from Tess Masters / Nom Nom Paleo

Sweet Potato and Cashew Dip (from Tess Masters’ The Perfect Blend)

Here’s your new favorite Whole30 and vegan veggie dip: Sweet Potato and Cashew Dip! Courtesy of Tess Masters!

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Crispy Brussels Sprout Chips

If you’re anything like us, you adore those perfectly crispy, slightly charred bits that emerge when you roast Brussels sprouts. Well, imagine an entire tray dedicated solely to that irresistible crunch! These Brussels Sprout Chips are a revelation, transforming a humble vegetable into a remarkably **addictive paleo and vegan snack**. They are incredibly simple to make, requiring minimal ingredients and effort, yet delivering maximum flavor and texture. Lightly salted and wonderfully crispy, these chips are a fantastic alternative to traditional potato chips. They offer a nutrient boost and are sure to satisfy your savory cravings. Be warned: once you start munching, it’s hard to stop!

Brussels Sprouts Chips by Michelle Tam / Nom Nom Paleo

Brussels Sprouts Chips

If you’re a closet snacker like me, you’ll want to make these chips anytime you buy Brussels sprouts. You’ll crave these crispy Brussels Sprouts Chips all the time!

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Perfectly Crunchy Baked Kale Chips

Get ready to bake more kale chips than you ever thought possible, because these will disappear incredibly fast! Baked Kale Chips are a brilliant way to turn a superfood into a super snack that even the pickiest eaters will adore. Once you place a bowl of these wonderfully crispy, salty, and nutrient-dense chips in front of your kids, they will likely demolish the entire batch. They are incredibly easy to prepare at home, requiring just a few simple ingredients and a short time in the oven. These chips are a fantastic **gluten-free and paleo** alternative to unhealthy processed snacks, offering a satisfying crunch and a boost of vitamins and minerals. Make a big batch, because everyone will be reaching for more!

Baked Kale Chips by Michelle Tam / Nom Nom Paleo

Baked Kale Chips

Baked kale chips are a simple, tasty, and healthy snack that you can easily make at home! Once you start munching on them, you won’t want to stop!

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Umami-Rich Crispy Mushroom Chips

For those who appreciate a deep, savory umami flavor, these Crispy Mushroom Chips are an absolute dream come true. Crafted from King Trumpet mushrooms, these chips offer an incredible texture and a rich, earthy taste that’s simply divine. They make for an outstanding **paleo, Whole30, and naturally gluten-free snack** that’s far more exciting than your average potato chip. The process of making them transforms the mushrooms into light, airy, and intensely flavored crisps, perfect for satisfying those savory cravings. Whether you’re a mushroom enthusiast or looking to expand your snack horizons, these chips are a must-try. They are easy to bake and provide a unique, gourmet snacking experience right at home.

Crispy Mushroom Chips by Michelle Tam / Nom Nom Paleo

Crispy Mushroom Chips

Homemade crispy mushroom chips are a tasty and healthy alternative to potato chips! These oven-baked bursts of umami goodness are like potato chips on flavor steroids – and they’re easy to make.

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Porkitos: Addictively Crispy Prosciutto Chips

Prepare to have your mind blown: did you know you can transform delicate prosciutto slices into incredibly crispy and flavorful “Porkitos”? These salty, crunchy prosciutto chips are nothing short of a revelation! They offer an intensely savory, meaty crunch that makes them an ideal **keto-friendly, Whole30, and paleo snack**. Perfect on their own as a quick bite, or crumbled over salads for an extra layer of texture and flavor, Porkitos are surprisingly simple to make. Just a few minutes in the oven can yield a batch of these glorious crisps, making them an excellent choice when you’re looking for something satisfyingly salty and unique. They’re a fantastic way to enjoy the rich taste of prosciutto in a whole new, crispy format.

Porkitos (Crispy Prosciutto Chips) by Michelle Tam / Nom Nom Paleo

Crispy Prosciutto Chips (Porkitos)

These Porkitos, or crispy prosciutto chips, are perfect on their own as a snack or topped on salads! Just bake thinly sliced prosciutto and you’ll end up with these crunchy, porky, salty chips!

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Crispy Chicken Cracklings: A Keto-Friendly Treat

If the crispy skin is your favorite part of a perfectly cooked chicken, then you are in for a treat with these incredible Chicken Cracklings! This recipe allows you to create a whole platter of wonderfully crunchy chicken skin, perfect for snacking. Whether you choose to bake them in the oven or air fry them for extra crispiness, the result is a savory, salty, and utterly satisfying snack. These cracklings are an excellent **paleo, Whole30, keto, and low-carb option**, offering a rich source of healthy fats and an explosion of flavor. They are a fantastic way to utilize chicken skin that might otherwise be discarded and transform it into a highly sought-after treat. Once you try these, you’ll understand why it’s so hard to eat just one!

An overhead shot of Crispy Chicken Skin on a wire rack, the perfect paleo, Whole30, keto, and low carb snack.

Crispy Chicken Skin Chips (Chicken Cracklings)

These two-ingredient crispy chicken skin chips can be made in an air fryer or oven. I bet you can’t eat just one chicken crackling!

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Satisfying Sweet Paleo Snacks: Wholesome & Delicious Treats

When sweet cravings strike, you don’t have to reach for sugary, processed junk food. These incredible **sweet paleo snacks** are here to prove that healthy can be utterly delicious and satisfying. Each recipe is crafted to be **gluten-free, refined sugar-free, and incredibly “Nomstastic”**, providing just the right amount of sweetness to curb any craving without the guilt. They are perfect for on-the-go fuel, lunchbox additions, or a delightful treat at any time of day. Prepare to discover new family favorites that offer both amazing taste and wholesome ingredients. Let’s explore these delightful grab-and-go options!

Homemade Cherry Chocolate Paleo Granola

This Cherry Chocolate Paleo Granola is a true fan-favorite, beloved by my family and a go-to holiday gift for all our friends. This **paleo and vegan granola** is surprisingly simple to make, yet delivers a complex, satisfying flavor and crunch. It’s easily customizable with your preferred nuts, seeds, and dried fruits, ensuring even the pickiest palates will find something to love. The combination of rich chocolate and tart cherries creates a delightful balance that makes this granola irresistible. Enjoy it as a crunchy topping for yogurt or smoothie bowls, sprinkled over fresh fruit, or simply by the handful as a quick, energizing snack. It’s a wholesome, flavorful, and incredibly versatile treat that will quickly become a pantry staple.

An overhead shot of a tray of chocolate cherry paleo granola, a tasty homemade holiday edible gift.

Chocolate Cherry Paleo Granola

This fabulous chocolate cherry paleo granola makes an easy and crowd-pleasing DIY homemade holiday edible gift! Warning: it’s hard to stop munching on this crunchy, nutty, and maple-syrup sweetened gluten-free treat so package it up and distribute to all your pals!

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Exotic Tropical Paleo Granola

Transport your taste buds to a sun-drenched beach with this irresistible Tropical Paleo Granola. This delightful **grain-free granola** offers a perfect balance of crunch, a hint of sweetness, and exotic tropical flavors that evoke memories of fruity beachside drinks. Made with wholesome ingredients, each handful delivers a mildly-sweet, nutty, and vibrant crunch that is truly unique. It’s a fantastic breakfast topping, a satisfying mid-day snack, or a light dessert. Free from grains and refined sugars, this granola is a guilt-free indulgence that provides sustained energy. Its customizable nature means you can tailor it to your tropical fruit preferences, ensuring a personalized and healthy treat.

Tropical Paleo Granola by Michelle Tam / Nom Nom Paleo

Tropical Paleo Granola

This grain-free Paleo granola is crunchy, not too sweet, and infused with tropical flavors that remind me of my favorite fruity beachside drinks!  Just a handful of this stuff delivers a mildly-sweet, nutty, tropical crunch like nothing else.

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A closeup of a tray of paleo tropical granola fresh out of the oven, packed with fruity and nutty flavors.

“PB&J” Energy Balls: A Nut-Free Twist

If you’re nostalgic for the classic comfort of PB&J sandwiches but are adhering to a **paleo or peanut-free diet**, these “PB&J” Energy Balls are your new best friend. These delightful, **no-bake energy bites** brilliantly capture the familiar flavors of peanut butter and jelly without a single peanut or slice of bread. Made with just nuts (usually almond or cashew butter for a paleo option) and fruit, plus a pinch of salt, they are incredibly simple to prepare and naturally sweet. These **portable, vegan, and paleo healthy snacks** are perfect for lunchboxes, post-workout fuel, or whenever you need a quick, satisfying boost of energy. They prove that you truly won’t miss the traditional ingredients when you have such a delicious and wholesome alternative.

“PB&J” Energy Balls by Michelle Tam / Nom Nom Paleo

Peanut Butter and Jelly Energy Balls

These peanut-free “PB&J” Energy Balls are made with just nuts and fruit (and a pinch of salt). They’re portable no-bake Paleo and vegan healthy snacks that taste just like peanut butter and jelly!

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Moist & Flavorful Gluten-Free Pumpkin Muffins

Embrace the comforting flavors of autumn with these simple and utterly delicious Pumpkin Muffins. This incredible recipe utilizes almond flour to create a wonderfully moist crumb, resulting in muffins that are soft, tender, and perfectly spiced. Requiring just a few easy-to-find ingredients, these muffins are a breeze to whip up, making them an ideal treat for busy mornings or afternoon snacks. They are naturally **gluten-free and paleo**, providing a healthier alternative to traditional baked goods without sacrificing an ounce of flavor or texture. Enjoy them warm with a cup of coffee or tea, or pack them in lunchboxes for a wholesome and delightful surprise. These muffins are so good, they’ll quickly become a family favorite, perfect for any season!

Three gluten free pumpkin muffins made with almond flour are on a marble counter top.

Easy Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins

These gluten-free pumpkin muffins are an amazing autumn paleo treat. My simple and delicious almond flour pumpkin muffin recipe has a moist crumb and calls for just a few easy-to-find ingredients!

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The World’s Easiest Paleo Cookies

Yes, the name says it all – these delicious crunchy almond flour cookies genuinely earn the title of “The World’s Easiest Cookies” to make, and the best part is, they’re completely **paleo, gluten-free, egg-free, and vegan**! This recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking for a quick, wholesome, and delightfully satisfying sweet treat without any fuss. With minimal ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can have a batch of fresh, warm cookies ready in no time. The almond flour gives them a lovely texture and rich flavor, making them a healthier alternative to traditional cookies. They are perfect for kids’ snacks, a simple dessert, or a pleasant pick-me-up with your afternoon tea. These cookies are proof that healthy baking doesn’t have to be complicated to be utterly delicious.

The World's Easiest Cookies from Elizabeth Barbone by Michelle Tam / Nom Nom Paleo

The World’s Easiest Cookies from Elizabeth Barbone

These delicious and simple grain-free Paleo cookies will please your whole family! They’re also gluten-free, egg-free, and vegan!

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Decadent Grain-Free Dark Chocolate Cherry Scones

Elevate your morning coffee or afternoon tea experience with these truly delightful Grain-Free Dark Chocolate Cherry Scones. These scones offer a perfect balance of rich dark chocolate and tart cherries, creating a sophisticated yet comforting flavor profile. They are entirely **paleo and grain-free**, making them an excellent choice for those avoiding grains without wanting to miss out on classic baked goods. With a tender crumb and bursts of fruity and chocolatey goodness, these scones are far from your average health food. They are surprisingly easy to bake and can be enjoyed fresh out of the oven or prepared ahead for convenient grab-and-go treats. These luxurious scones are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a special snack that feels incredibly indulgent.

Grain-Free Dark Chocolate Cherry Scones by Michelle Tam / Nom Nom Paleo

Grain-Free Dark Chocolate Cherry Scones

These grain-free dark chocolate cherry scones are one of my favorite baked paleo treats! They’re perfect for DIY holiday gifts, too!

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Fun & Healthy Matcha Coconut Gummies

Just look at these! These delightful Matcha Coconut Gummies are the vibrant, jade-colored jigglers that add a playful touch to healthy snacking. Made with beneficial ingredients like matcha, gelatin, and coconut, these gummies are not just super cute and fun, but also packed with goodness. Matcha provides a gentle energy boost and antioxidants, while gelatin offers collagen for gut health and skin elasticity. These chewy treats are naturally sweetened and make an excellent **paleo and gluten-free snack** for kids and adults alike. They are incredibly easy to prepare and can be molded into fun shapes, making them an engaging way to enjoy a wholesome dessert or snack. You’ll love having these on hand for a quick, nutritious, and satisfying bite.

Matcha Coconut Gummies by Michelle Tam / Nom Nom Paleo

Matcha Coconut Gummies

Yes, these gummies are made with “superfoods” like matcha, gelatin, and coconut, but the real reason I made ’em is because they’re super cute and tasty.

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Wholesome Berry Snack Cake: Paleo & Gluten-Free

This Berry Snack Cake is a genuine crowd-pleaser, boasting a tender, moist crumb generously dotted with tangy berries and perfectly sweetened with natural maple or coconut sugar. What makes this cake truly exceptional is its ability to pass the taste test even with picky gluten-eating in-laws, making it an undeniable winner in any household! It’s an ideal **paleo and gluten-free treat** that can be enjoyed any time of day, perfect for a breakfast treat, an afternoon pick-me-up, or a light dessert. It’s designed to be eaten without utensils, making it a convenient and mess-free snack for kids and adults alike. This cake is proof that healthy treats can be utterly delicious and satisfying without sacrificing texture or flavor.

A slice of paleo and gluten-free berry snack cake is on a white plate. In the background are the other slices of berry snack cake.

Berry Snack Cake (Paleo, Gluten Free)

This simple and delicious Berry Snack Cake is the perfect back-to-school paleo and gluten-free treat! Both kids and adults love this snack cake because you can eat it without utensils and no one will suspect that it’s free of grains and refined sugar!

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Convenient Store-Bought Paleo & Gluten-Free Snacks

In today’s fast-paced world, finding time to prepare every single snack from scratch can be a real challenge. Thankfully, the market for **paleo-friendly snacks** has expanded dramatically, offering a plethora of delicious and wholesome options that you can easily pick up at the grocery store or order online. This convenience doesn’t mean compromising on quality or dietary principles. I’ve personally curated a list of our family’s absolute favorite **store-bought gluten-free snacks** that meet **paleo and Whole30 guidelines** where applicable. These ready-to-eat options are perfect for busy days, road trips, or simply when you need a quick, healthy bite without any prep.

Top Picks: Our Family’s Favorite Grab-and-Go Snacks

  • Potato Chips (Cooked in Healthy Oils): Look for brands that fry their potato chips in **avocado oil, coconut oil, or olive oil** instead of inflammatory vegetable oils. These offer the satisfying crunch of traditional chips with a much healthier fat profile. They’re a classic salty snack, reimagined for a paleo lifestyle.
  • Grain-Free Siete Tortilla Chips: A fantastic discovery for anyone missing tortillas! Siete Family Foods offers a range of delicious **grain-free tortilla chips** made from wholesome ingredients like cassava flour. They are perfect for dipping into salsa, guacamole, or any of the savory dips listed above.
  • Plantain Chips: A naturally sweet and savory alternative to potato chips, plantain chips are made from green plantains and typically fried in coconut oil. They provide a unique texture and flavor that’s both satisfying and **paleo-compliant**.
  • SeaSnax Seaweed Snacks: These light, crispy, and nutrient-dense seaweed snacks are a fantastic **low-calorie, umami-packed option**. They are often seasoned simply with sea salt and are incredibly portable, making them ideal for kids’ lunchboxes or adult desks.
  • Simple Mills Grain-Free Crackers and Cookies: Simple Mills has revolutionized the **gluten-free and grain-free** baking world. Their crackers, often made from almond flour, are sturdy and flavorful, perfect for cheese (if tolerated) or dips. Their cookies are a wonderful refined sugar-free sweet treat.
  • Hu Kitchen Pizza Flavored Grain-Free Crackers: If you’re craving a savory, cheesy flavor without dairy or grains, Hu Kitchen’s pizza-flavored crackers are a game-changer. Made with simple, real ingredients, these crackers offer a satisfying crunch and bold taste that makes healthy snacking exciting.
  • Organic Applesauce (Unsweetened): A timeless and naturally sweet snack, organic unsweetened applesauce is a pure and simple option. It’s great on its own, mixed with cinnamon, or as a side with other snacks. It provides natural sugars and fiber without any added refined sugars.
  • Variety of Nuts and Seeds: An ultimate **paleo snack staple**, nuts and seeds (like almonds, walnuts, pecans, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds) are rich in healthy fats, protein, and fiber. Always opt for raw or dry-roasted, unsalted varieties to keep them as wholesome as possible. They are incredibly versatile and filling.
  • Turkey and Beef Sticks: For a protein-packed, savory snack, quality turkey and beef sticks are an excellent choice. Look for brands that use **grass-fed meat** and are free from added sugars, nitrates, and artificial ingredients. These are great for sustained energy and muscle support, perfect for active kids and adults.

Psst! I buy almost all of the **healthy snacks** listed above online at Thrive Market. It’s a fantastic way to save money on quality, **paleo-friendly ingredients and snacks**, and the convenience of doorstep delivery is simply unbeatable!

Beyond snacks, healthy meal planning is key! Need some more inspired school lunch ideas that are **Whole30 and gluten-free**? Check out this comprehensive post and this epic paleo school lunch roundup for even more delicious and nourishing options to fuel your family throughout the day!


We hope this guide has provided you with an abundance of inspiring ideas for delicious **gluten-free, grain-free, and paleo snacks** that your entire family will enjoy. From homemade dips and crispy veggie chips to satisfying sweet treats and convenient store-bought options, embracing a wholesome snacking lifestyle has never been easier or more flavorful. Eating healthy doesn’t mean sacrificing taste, and with these kid- and parent-approved recipes and recommendations, you’re well on your way to a happier, healthier pantry. For even more culinary inspiration and exclusive recipes, make sure to head over to my Recipe Index. You’ll also find a treasure trove of delightful dishes in my best-selling cookbooks: Nom Nom Paleo: Food for Humans (Andrews McMeel Publishing 2013), Ready or Not! (Andrews McMeel Publishing 2017), and Nom Nom Paleo: Let’s Go! (Andrews McMeel Publishing 2022). Happy snacking and healthy eating!