For all intents and purposes, I’m thinking of the non-essential food items I regularly use from the grocery store, not bread and milk. So here goes (not necessarily my top 5 but definitely on a regular basis:

BLUE DIAMOND LIGHTLY SALTED ALMONDS

Almonds are a staple when I want something salty, and they also provide an excellent source of protein and healthy fats in my diet. Not only do they satisfy my cravings, but they also contribute to my overall well-being with their impressive nutritional profile. Almonds are rich in vitamin E, magnesium, and antioxidants, which play a vital role in maintaining heart health and supporting metabolic functions. Whether I enjoy them roasted with a pinch of sea salt or incorporate them into my smoothies and salads, almonds add both flavor and texture, making them an ideal snack that keeps me feeling full and energized throughout the day.

ACTIVIA VANILLA YOGURT

These 90 calorie yogurt cups are both delicious and nutritious, offering a perfect balance of flavor and health benefits that make them an ideal snack choice for any time of day. Whether you’re at work, on the go, or simply relaxing at home, these cups are designed to satisfy your cravings while providing essential nutrients that your body needs. Each cup is carefully crafted with wholesome ingredients, ensuring that you enjoy every bite without the guilt that usually comes with indulgent treats. I love adding the aforementioned almonds, along with banana, granola, chia seeds, and blueberries to a bowl of vanilla (or sometimes strawberry), and it hits the spot just right!

THOMAS’ ENGLISH MUFFINS

Thomas’ English Muffins became one of my favorite alternatives to bagels, which tend to have twice as many calories, making them a more mindful choice for breakfast. I either spread a generous amount of peanut butter on them for a quick and satisfying meal, or toast them to golden perfection and add layers of egg, ham, and cheese to create a deliciously hearty treat, essentially chowing down my own homemade version of an Egg McMuffin. This tasty combination not only satisfies my taste buds but also gives me the energy I need to start (or continue) my day, while keeping my calorie intake in check. The versatility of English muffins allows for endless variations, making breakfast an exciting meal I look forward to every morning.

SKIPPY CREAMY PEANUT BUTTER

When I was much younger (and could afford the calories), I’d pull out three pieces of Wonder Bread, slather two of them with a thick layer of peanut butter, cover the peanut butter with a similar thick layer of Smucker’s grape jelly, finally stacking the two pieces of bread on top of each other before placing the third slice on top of stack, in essence making my own triple-decker “Big Mac” of peanut butter sandwiches (I seriously am not sure where all the McDonald’s references are coming from today).

These days, I enjoy peanut butter in protein balls, on my Thomas English Muffins, and every now and then on a packet of Ritz crackers. Quick protein, and yeah, I know – tons of sugar I really don’t need – but we can keep that secret just between us, alright?

BANANAS

In addition to filling my blender bottle with whey protein powder, milk and ice, I also love to grab a banana when I’m out the door on my way to workout. The potassium is a great energy booster that helps this old guy power through the reps and sets.

When the bananas start to get a bit too ripe, I cut them into slices, slip them into a snack baggie, and slide them into the freezer. Several days later, I pull them out to drop into my blender when making a yogurt, berry, milk and bananas infused smoothie. They go well with that Strawberry Yogurt from Activia too!

NOW IT’S YOUR TURN

Creating a list of favorite grocery store items can reveal so much about our individual tastes, nutritional preferences, and the ways we choose to fuel our bodies. From healthy snacks like Blue Diamond Lightly Salted Almonds to versatile staples like Thomas English Muffins, these choices reflect not just what satisfies our cravings but also what keeps us feeling good inside and out. It’s fascinating to see how similar yet different our lists can be, showcasing the unique ways we incorporate food into our daily lives.

Now that you’ve seen my top picks, I’d love to hear from you! What are the non-essential grocery items that you can’t live without? Share your top 5 grocery store items in the comments below! And if you enjoyed reading this, be sure to subscribe for more delightful content and share this with your friends. Your voice matters, and I can’t wait to see what delicious choices you make!