What is this food?
Chips and fish crackers are crunchy, packaged snacks made mainly from starchy ingredients (carbs) with added seasonings. They’re usually eaten as a snack between meals.
Why it matters to health
For energy, the carbs help keep you full and active, but this type of snack is also high in fat (including saturated fat) and sodium. With about 745 mg sodium per 100 g, frequent eating can add up, especially if you also have salty viands during your 3 meals. Fiber is low (about 0.7 g), so it may not keep your appetite steady like whole foods do. The good part: if you enjoy them, you can still fit them into your day—just keep portions and frequency in check.
Healthier tips
- Keep it as a snack, not a meal substitute—aim for small portions (e.g., a handful) and avoid eating the whole pack.
- Pair with something that adds fiber and water like fresh fruit (apple, orange, banana) or veggies (cucumber, carrots) to balance your snack.
- Choose lower-sodium options when available, and check the label if you’re buying different brands.
- If you crave crunch, try alternating with roasted or baked snacks, or go for nuts/seeds in smaller portions.
- Since you’ll have 3 full meals plus 1–2 snacks a day, plan ahead: if you eat chips/fish crackers, make the other snack lighter (e.g., yogurt or fruit) and keep the meal viands less salty.
Common Filipino dishes
Fish crackers (chicharon-style snacks), Pritong isda (fried fish), Tinapa with rice, Garlic chips, Kangkong with bagoong