If you're looking for a healthy treat that's both delicious and nutritious, bean snacks are a great option. These snacks come in a variety of forms, from crispy chips to crunchy puffs, and feature popular beans like chickpeas, black beans, and edamame, all seasoned with everything from sea salt to bold, spicy flavors. They’re perfect for satisfying hunger while providing important nutrients like protein and fiber to fuel your day.
This buying guide, with insights from registered dietitian Jackie Newgent, helps navigate the wide world of healthy bean snacks available in the US. It highlights the best options for every taste, from roasted varieties to bean-based chips and puffs, ensuring you make informed choices based on your nutritional needs.
Quick List - Top Healthy Bean Snacks
The Only Bean
Packed With Plant-Based Protein and Fiber for a Crunchy, Keto-Friendly Snack
Jackie Newgent, RDN, CDN, is a plant-forward registered dietitian nutritionist, classically-trained chef, award-winning cookbook author, professional recipe developer, media personality, spokesperson, and food writer. Her most recent book is The Plant-Based Diabetes Cookbook. She’s a Forbes Health advisory board member, contributor to Diabetes Food Hub, and former national media spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Jackie was a healthy cooking instructor at the Institute of Culinary Education for more than a decade and is currently a private cooking instructor. She is also a culinary nutrition advisor to major food companies.
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Table of Contents
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Bean snacks are a healthy and satisfying choice. Studies have shown that they can:
These combined benefits, along with beans' high protein and fiber content, make bean snacks a nutritious option for those seeking to support their health and well-being.
For one serving of a bean snack, ideally, look for at least 3 grams each of dietary fiber and protein. However, it may still be a smart choice even if it doesn’t meet these marks, depending on your nutritional goals.
When choosing bean snacks, checking fiber and protein content is key for satiety and digestive health.
Fiber, especially soluble fiber, supports regular digestion, promotes fullness, and helps stabilize blood sugar levels, making it essential for balanced snacking and appetite control.
Together, fiber and protein make bean snacks a nutritious, satisfying choice for better digestion and long-term health.
Roasted whole bean snacks like chickpeas, edamame, and fava beans offer a satisfying crunch, high protein, fiber, and health benefits such as weight management, cholesterol-lowering, and chronic disease prevention.
Choose roasted whole bean snacks if you prefer a crunchy, dense texture that provides a substantial and satisfying bite. Options like roasted chickpeas, edamame, and fava beans deliver satiety and health benefits, making them ideal for functional snackers.
Chickpeas may help prevent chronic conditions like cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes while supporting weight management.
Edamame offers plant-based protein, fiber, and isoflavones with cholesterol-lowering and antioxidant properties.
Fava beans provide a balanced amino acid profile and bioactive compounds like phenolics and GABA, supporting overall health.
These snacks are perfect for those seeking both nutrition and flavor in their snacking choices.
Seasoned or flavored whole beans like lupini beans are minimally processed, ready-to-eat snacks that offer a fresh, satisfying alternative to dried snacks.
If you prefer minimally processed snacks, opt for seasoned or flavored whole beans like lupini beans. These beans are cooked and lightly seasoned, offering a ready-to-eat option that is fresher and less processed than dried snacks. With a satisfying texture and natural flavor, they serve as a wholesome alternative to heavily processed snack foods.
Lupini beans, in particular, stand out for their unique nutritional properties, especially as a whole food. Research has shown that lupini beans can enhance satiety and help reduce blood pressure, making them a functional snack choice.
Their minimal processing and nutrient profile make them an ideal option for those seeking a fresh, healthy snack without the additives found in typical packaged options.
Bean-based chips and puffs offer kid-friendly flavors and familiar textures while providing nutritious benefits like protein, fiber, and antioxidants from ingredients like black beans and lentils.
Bean-based chips or puffs with kid-friendly flavors like sea salt, barbecue, or nacho cheese offer familiar textures that appeal to children. Options such as black bean chips, lentil chips, and chickpea puffs provide a healthier twist on traditional snacks with lighter, airier, or crunchy forms.
Lentils help reduce inflammation and offer antimicrobial benefits. They are a tasty, healthier alternative to traditional chips that kids will enjoy without compromising on flavor.
Be mindful that many chip-like bean snacks are considered ultra-processed and often contain high amounts of potato starch, which can diminish their overall health benefits.
To assess sodium levels, check the % Daily Value on labels—5% or less is low, and 20% or more is high. Balance higher-sodium snacks with lower-sodium choices throughout the day to stay within daily guidelines.
It's important to consider the sodium content, as excessive sodium intake can contribute to high blood pressure and increase the risk of heart disease.
The American Heart Association recommends limiting sodium intake to no more than 2,300 mg per day, with an ideal goal of 1,500 mg for most adults. Tracking sodium levels in snacks can help ensure you stay within these recommended guidelines for better cardiovascular health.
If you follow a vegan or gluten-free diet, choose bean snacks labeled as vegan or certified gluten-free to ensure they meet your dietary needs and provide plant-based protein and fiber.
If you follow a vegan or gluten-free diet, look for bean snacks that cater to these needs. The first step is to always check the ingredient list to ensure the product meets your dietary restrictions.
While many bean snacks are naturally vegan or gluten-free, some may contain non-vegan or gluten ingredients. This can make some snacks unsuitable for a vegan eating plan or for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities.
While choosing organic, non-GMO products is not essential, it is one additional step you can take to keep your diet as nourishing as possible, with the potential to obtain slightly more antioxidants.
If you prioritize clean ingredients, look for bean snacks with organic and non-GMO certifications.
Organic certification ensures beans are grown without synthetic pesticides or additives, offering a more natural, sustainable option. (USDA Organic)
Non-GMO certification guarantees that the beans are free from genetic modification, addressing concerns over health and environmental impact. (The Non-GMO Project)
Choosing both organic and non-GMO snacks ensures a cleaner, healthier diet aligned with your values.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | |||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Calories | Protein Content | Fiber Content | Sodium Content | Sodium Daily Value | Type | Vegan | Gluten-Free | Non-GMO | |||||
1 | The Only Bean Crunchy Roasted Edamame Beans (Sea Salt) | ![]() | Packed With Plant-Based Protein and Fiber for a Crunchy, Keto-Friendly Snack | 100 | 11g | 4g | 150mg | 7% | Roasted Whole Beans | ||||
2 | Bada Bean Snacks The Classic Box | ![]() | Flavorful Fava Beans with Protein and Fiber | 110 | 6g | 4g | 160mg | 7% | Roasted Whole Beans | ||||
3 | BRAMI Chili & Lime | ![]() | Tangy Pickled Lupini Beans for Diverse Diets | 35 | 4g | 3g | 240mg | 10% | Flavored Whole Beans | ||||
4 | The Happy Snack Co. Crunchy Chickpeas Variety Pack | ![]() | Allergen-Free Crunch with Flavorful Nutrition | 120 | 5g | 3g | 110mg | 5% | Roasted Whole Beans | ||||
5 | The Good Bean Crunchy Chickpeas, Sweet Sriracha | ![]() | Bold Sweet Heat with Plant Protein | 168 | 8g | 6g | 133mg | 5% | Roasted Whole Beans | ||||
6 | Beanfields Black Bean & Sea Salt Bean Chips | ![]() | Bold Flavor Meets Black Bean Benefits | 130 | 4g | 4g | 110mg | 5% | Chips | ||||
7 | Enjoy Life Lentil Chips|Sea Salt | ![]() | Allergen-Free Lentil Chips for Every Snacker | 140 | 3g | 1g | 300mg | 13% | Chips | ||||
8 | Cento Lupini Beans | ![]() | Ready-to-Eat Fiber-Rich Beans | 40 | 5g | 1g | 190mg | 8% | Flavored Whole Beans | ||||
9 | HIPPEAS Chickpea Puffs | ![]() | Light, Crunchy Puffs with Vegan Cheese Appeal | 100 | 3g | 2g | 180mg | 8% | Puffs | ||||
10 | Kibo Foods Chickpea Chips Super Snack Set | ![]() | Light and Crunchy Chickpea Chips With 40% Less Fat Than Potato Chips | 120 | 6g | 2g | 170mg | 7% | Chips |
Calories | 100 |
---|---|
Protein Content | 11g |
Fiber Content | 4g |
Sodium Content | 150mg |
Sodium Daily Value | 7% |
---|---|
Vegan | |
Gluten-Free |
Calories | 110 |
---|---|
Protein Content | 6g |
Fiber Content | 4g |
Sodium Content | 160mg |
Bada Bean's roasted fava beans offer 6 grams of protein, 4 grams of fiber, and 110 calories per serving. Free from cholesterol and saturated fats, they are a nutritionally dense alternative to traditional snacks and fit gluten-free, vegan, and kosher dietary preferences.
Available in nine flavor varieties, these snacks cater to diverse taste preferences, from savory to sweet. Their crunchy texture makes them versatile for standalone consumption or as a topping for salads or soups, offering an energy-sustaining, low-calorie option for snacking throughout the day.
Sodium Daily Value | 7% |
---|---|
Vegan | |
Gluten-Free |
Calories | 35 |
---|---|
Protein Content | 4g |
Fiber Content | 3g |
Sodium Content | 240mg |
BRAMI’s Lupini Beans offer a minimally processed, pickled snack with 80 calories and 0 net carbs per serving. High in protein and fiber, they align with keto, vegan, and paleo diets.
Their pickled preparation provides a unique tangy flavor, making them suitable for snacking or adding texture to salads. Portable and shelf-stable, they are a practical choice for health-conscious consumers seeking variety in their diet.
Sodium Daily Value | 10% |
---|---|
Vegan | |
Gluten-Free |
Calories | 120 |
---|---|
Protein Content | 5g |
Fiber Content | 3g |
Sodium Content | 110mg |
These roasted chickpeas are a nutrient-dense snack, offering plant-based protein and fiber. They are free from the top nine allergens, including gluten, nuts, and soy. Each flavor, such as Lime & Cracked Pepper or Red Pepper & Chili, is crafted with simple ingredients for a satisfying crunch.
Suitable for school lunches or office snacks, the chickpeas provide a flavorful alternative to chips with lower sugar and saturated fat content. Their allergen-free profile ensures inclusivity for a wide audience, making them a versatile addition to any snack rotation.
Sodium Daily Value | 5% |
---|---|
Vegan | |
Gluten-Free |
Calories | 168 |
---|---|
Protein Content | 8g |
Fiber Content | 6g |
Sodium Content | 133mg |
The Good Bean's Sweet Sriracha Chickpeas offer 8 grams of protein and 6 grams of fiber per serving. Made from sustainably sourced beans, they are gluten-free, vegan, and non-GMO, catering to a range of dietary preferences.
With their sweet, tangy, and spicy flavor, these chickpeas are ideal for snacking or adding crunch to salads and soups. Their portability and bold taste make them a convenient and flavorful option for plant-based nutrition.
Sodium Daily Value | 5% |
---|---|
Vegan | |
Gluten-Free |
Calories | 130 |
---|---|
Protein Content | 4g |
Fiber Content | 4g |
Sodium Content | 110mg |
Beanfields' Black Bean & Sea Salt Chips offer a nutrient boost with the natural benefits of black beans, providing protein and fiber. These chips are vegan, gluten-free, and non-GMO, catering to diverse dietary needs while maintaining a simple ingredient list.
With a bold flavor profile and satisfying crunch, they are an appealing alternative to traditional potato chips. Their sturdy texture makes them suitable for pairing with dips or enjoying on their own, serving as a flavorful and health-conscious snack option.
Sodium Daily Value | 5% |
---|---|
Vegan | |
Gluten-Free |
Calories | 140 |
---|---|
Protein Content | 3g |
Fiber Content | 1g |
Sodium Content | 300mg |
Enjoy Life’s Lentil Chips are a safe and inclusive option for those with dietary restrictions since they are free from 14 common allergens. These chips are baked, not fried, ensuring a lighter texture while delivering plant-based nutrition.
Non-GMO and certified gluten-free, these chips provide a mild sea salt flavor that complements their versatility. Packaged in a dedicated nut-free facility, they are suitable for schools and other allergen-sensitive settings.
Sodium Daily Value | 13% |
---|---|
Vegan | |
Gluten-Free |
Calories | 40 |
---|---|
Protein Content | 5g |
Fiber Content | 1g |
Sodium Content | 190mg |
Cento Lupini Beans come pre-prepared for easy consumption. High in fiber and antioxidants, they provide a nutrient-dense snack that can be enjoyed plain, seasoned, or as a component in meals.
With minimal preparation required, these beans are an accessible way to incorporate plant-based nutrition into various dishes. Their mild flavor pairs well with herbs and oils for added customization.
Sodium Daily Value | 8% |
---|---|
Vegan | |
Gluten-Free |
Calories | 100 |
---|---|
Protein Content | 3g |
Fiber Content | 2g |
Sodium Content | 180mg |
HIPPEAS Chickpea Puffs deliver 3 grams of protein and 2 grams of fiber per serving. Crafted from sustainably grown chickpeas, these puffs are certified gluten-free, vegan, and non-GMO, aligning with multiple dietary needs.
Offered in vegan "cheese" flavors, they mimic traditional cheese snacks while maintaining a dairy-free profile. Their light and airy texture makes them an appealing alternative to heavier snacks, suitable for on-the-go consumption.
Sodium Daily Value | 8% |
---|---|
Vegan | |
Gluten-Free |
Calories | 120 |
---|---|
Protein Content | 6g |
Fiber Content | 2g |
Sodium Content | 170mg |
Sodium Daily Value | 7% |
---|---|
Vegan | |
Gluten-Free |
No. 1: The Only Bean|Crunchy Roasted Edamame Beans (Sea Salt)
No. 2: Bada Bean Snacks|The Classic Box
No. 3: BRAMI|Chili & Lime
No. 4: The Happy Snack Co.|Crunchy Chickpeas Variety Pack
No. 5: The Good Bean|Crunchy Chickpeas, Sweet Sriracha
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