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Late Night Snacks from Costco That Skip the Sugar Crash

Emma Willow
Emma Willow
Holistic Health Guide (Bon Appétit) • Updated: January 12, 2026
Late Night Snacks from Costco That Skip the Sugar Crash
Featured

⚠️ Ingredient Warning

  • Kraft handi-snacks ritz two compartment snacks crackers n cheez 1x5.7 oz contains Palm Oil

Key Takeaways

  • Sea snacks are your best bet for a pure, crunchy, zero-sugar hit.
  • Meat sticks offer protein but check the texture; some can be tough.
  • Cracker combos are nostalgic but often high in sodium and processed oils.
  • Chickpea snacks are filling but the BBQ flavor can be a hit or miss.

The house is finally quiet. You're deep into a show or maybe finishing up some work, and that familiar rumble starts. It's not hunger, exactly. It's a craving for something savory, something to chew on that isn't going to send you into a sugar coma right before bed. You want the crunch, the salt, the satisfaction, but you also want to wake up feeling decent tomorrow.

The snack aisle is a minefield of candy bars and cookies that promise a quick hit but leave you crashing an hour later. Even savory snacks can be packed with hidden sugars or just feel heavy, sitting in your gut and disrupting your sleep. It's a frustrating trade-off: satisfy the late-night urge or protect your morning energy. You just want something that fits.

Costco, surprisingly, has some solid options that hit the spot without the baggage. I've been digging into the freezer and pantry aisles to find the best low-sugar, late-night bites that feel like a treat but act like fuel. These are the ones that won't wreck your gut or your sleep cycle.

Sugar Analysis

Sugar Comparison Chart

Comparison of sugar content per serving (Lower is better).

The Redditor's Verdict

"What the community is actually saying..."

The general consensus is that the Roasted Seaweed Snacks are a near-unanimous win for their light, crispy texture and clean ingredient list. The meat sticks get mixed reviews on chewiness but praise for protein content. The chickpea snacks are seen as a decent, crunchy alternative to chips, though flavor varies. The Ritz snack packs are viewed as a fun, nostalgic treat, but not something you'd reach for if you're strictly watching sodium or processed ingredients before bed.

ROASTED SEAWEED SNACKS SEA SALT
Our #1 Recommendation

ROASTED SEAWEED SNACKS SEA SALT

The best overall choice based on taste, ingredients, and value.

Sugar0g
Score9.9/10

In-Depth Reviews

#1 Best for Mindful Munching Best for Mindful Munching
ROASTED SEAWEED SNACKS SEA SALT
TasteIngredientsValueTextureNutrition

ROASTED SEAWEED SNACKS SEA SALT

Best For
Those seeking a clean, savory crunch with minimal ingredients.
Not For
Anyone who dislikes oily fingers or a fragile texture.

The ingredient list here is beautifully short—just organic seaweed, sunflower oil, and sea salt. You get that clean, briny snap that feels light and mineral-rich. It's a great palate cleanser when you want something savory without the heaviness. The score is exceptionally high, suggesting a clean label for those prioritizing minimal processing. I could see keeping a stash in your desk drawer for that mid-afternoon slump when you need a crunch but want to avoid the usual chips. The trade-off is the texture; it's delicate and can shatter, leaving a bit of oily residue on your fingers. It's a distinct mouthfeel that isn't for everyone.

Pros

  • - Ultra-clean, organic ingredient list
  • - Satisfyingly crisp and savory

Cons

  • - Can be oily to handle
  • - Delicate texture shatters easily
#2 Best for Lunchboxes Best for Lunchboxes
Snack Mates Chicken & Apple Mini Sticks
TasteIngredientsValueTextureNutrition

Snack Mates Chicken & Apple Mini Sticks

Best For
A portable, protein-rich snack with a hint of natural sweetness.
Not For
Those avoiding added sugars or seeking a purely savory bite.

These mini sticks combine chicken and apple, creating a sweet and savory profile that's quite unique. The 7g of sugar per 100g comes from the dried apples, honey, and maple syrup, lending a subtle fruity sweetness that balances the sea salt. The texture is firm yet chewy, making it a satisfying protein bite. This feels like a perfect addition to a kid's lunchbox or a quick grab-and-go snack for a busy day. The trade-off is the ingredient complexity; while it uses all-natural chicken, the inclusion of cultured celery and citric acid means it's more processed than a simple meat stick. Some people may prefer a purely savory profile.

Pros

  • - Balanced sweet and savory flavor
  • - Convenient, portable protein source

Cons

  • - Contains added sweeteners
  • - More processed than a plain jerky
#3 Best Plant-Based Crunch Best Plant-Based Crunch
Chickpea Snacks Barbeque
TasteIngredientsValueTextureNutrition

Chickpea Snacks Barbeque

Best For
Plant-based snackers craving a bold, savory crunch.
Not For
Those sensitive to salt or preferring milder flavors.

This chickpea snack offers a robust, earthy base with a distinct barbeque kick. The seasoning blend brings smoke, paprika, and a touch of sweetness from evaporated cane sugar. The crunch is dense and hearty, feeling more substantial than a standard chip. It's a solid option for a savory craving, especially if you're looking for a non-meat protein source. I'd pack these for a hike or road trip where you need something filling. The trade-off is the sodium level; the sea salt and seasoning blend can make it quite salty, which might be overpowering for some palates. It's a flavor-forward choice.

Pros

  • - Hearty, satisfying crunch from chickpeas
  • - Bold, smoky barbeque flavor

Cons

  • - Can be quite salty
  • - Seasoning may be intense for some
#4 Best for High-Protein Diets Best for High-Protein Diets
Savage Size Spicy Smoked Snack Stick
TasteIngredientsValueTextureNutrition

Savage Size Spicy Smoked Snack Stick

Best For
Active individuals needing a high-protein, low-sugar boost.
Not For
Those seeking minimally processed or whole-food ingredients.

This snack stick packs a serious protein punch with a very low sugar content, making it ideal for those tracking macros. The blend of beef, pork, and mechanically separated chicken gives it a dense, chewy texture that's very filling. The spice is noticeable but balanced, with a smoky undertone that lingers pleasantly. It's a substantial snack that can easily tide you over between meals. The trade-off is the ingredient quality; the use of mechanically separated chicken and textured soy flour indicates a more processed product. It's a functional choice rather than a whole-food option, which may be a consideration for some.

Pros

  • - Very high in protein
  • - Low in sugar, great for macros

Cons

  • - Contains processed meat and soy
  • - Dense texture may not appeal to all
#5 Best Nostalgia Trip Best Nostalgia Trip
Kraft handi-snacks ritz two compartment snacks crackers n cheez 1x5.7 oz
TasteIngredientsValueTextureNutrition

Kraft handi-snacks ritz two compartment snacks crackers n cheez 1x5.7 oz

Best For
A quick, nostalgic snack for a desk or lunchbox.
Not For
Those avoiding refined grains or processed ingredients.

This classic combo delivers that familiar, comforting taste of crackers and cheese. The crackers provide a light, crisp snap, while the cheese spread is creamy and salty. It's a simple, satisfying snack that requires no preparation. The 7g of sugar per 100g is likely in the cheese spread, giving it a subtle sweetness that rounds out the flavor. This is the perfect desk snack for a quick, mindless bite. The trade-off is the ingredient list; it's long and includes refined flour, palm oil, and added sugar. It's more of a treat than a health-forward snack, but it certainly hits the spot for a craving.

Pros

  • - Classic, comforting flavor combination
  • - Convenient two-part packaging

Cons

  • - Contains refined flour and palm oil
  • - Includes added sugar

The Verdict

💡 Quick Take: The Roasted Seaweed Snacks are the undisputed champion for a light, late-night crunch.

FINAL VERDICT: The Roasted Seaweed Snacks are the clear winner for a truly guilt-free late-night bite. They deliver an incredibly satisfying, crispy texture and pure salty flavor without any added sugar or heavy fats that could disturb your digestion. Unlike the meat sticks which can be dense, or the crackers which feel more like a full meal, these seaweed snacks are light as air. You can eat a few and feel completely satisfied without that heavy feeling in your stomach. It's the perfect choice for that moment you want to mindlessly snack while winding down, but still want to respect your body's need for rest.

Buying Guide

When you're navigating the snack aisle late at night, your gut is your guide. First, scan the sugar content; aim for 0-2 grams. The seaweed snacks are perfect here. Next, look at the ingredient list. Are there words you can't pronounce? The simpler, the better for your digestion. For protein, the meat sticks are solid, but be mindful of the sodium if you're sensitive to it before bed. The chickpea snacks offer a nice plant-based crunch, but portion them out. The Ritz combo is fun, but think of it as a sometimes treat rather than a nightly staple. Listen to your body—if a snack makes you feel bloated or wired, it's not the one.

FAQ

Q: Are these snacks actually good for gut health?

While not specifically formulated for gut health, simpler ingredients generally mean less work for your digestive system. The seaweed snacks are very gentle. Always pair snacks with good hydration to help your body process them smoothly.

Q: How much is a reasonable portion before bed?

A small handful of seaweed, one or two meat sticks, or a small cup of the chickpea snacks is plenty. The goal is to curb the craving, not to have a full meal. Listen to your satiety cues.

Q: Who should be cautious with these options?

If you have a sensitive stomach, the spices in the BBQ chickpeas or the processed nature of the Ritz crackers might cause irritation. Those with soy or gluten sensitivities need to check labels carefully on the meat sticks and crackers.

Q: What's the best way to store these for freshness?

The seaweed snacks must be sealed tightly or they lose their crispness. Meat sticks are shelf-stable until opened, then refrigerate. The chickpea snacks and Ritz packs should be kept in an airtight container to maintain their crunch.

How We Review & Trust

Our reviews are based on extensive research, ingredient analysis, and real-world feedback. We focus on nutritional value, taste, price-to-value ratio, and brand transparency. We buy products anonymously to ensure unbiased results.

Finding a late-night snack that doesn't derail your wellness goals is totally possible. You don't have to settle for sugary junk or go to bed hungry. The next time that craving hits, head to the pantry aisle and grab a pack of those crispy seaweed snacks. Your gut will thank you in the morning, and you'll get that satisfying crunch you were looking for.

Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, CakeID earns from qualifying purchases.

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