With more people choosing better snack options, brands like Simple Mills have gained attention. But do their products truly offer good nutrition? Let’s dig into what makes these crackers stand out—or fall short.
Many grab these treats for their gluten-free and vegan appeal. Yet, taste and ingredients matter just as much as dietary perks. How do they compare to classic choices like Wheat Thins®?
This guide breaks down the facts. We’ll explore EWG’s Food Scores, taste tests, and key details to help you decide if they fit your healthy snack goals.
Key Takeaways
- Gluten-free and vegan options cater to special diets.
- Ingredients focus on whole foods, avoiding artificial additives.
- Nutritional content varies by flavor—check labels carefully.
- Some varieties score well in third-party health ratings.
- Taste tests show mixed opinions on flavor and texture.
Simple Mills Crackers: A Nutritious Snack or Just Hype?
Snack aisles are packed with options, but few stand out like those made with almond flour and seed blends. Unlike traditional wheat-based crackers, these alternatives cater to modern dietary needs without sacrificing crunch or flavor.
What Makes These Snacks Stand Out?
The Farmhouse Cheddar variety packs 2g of protein per serving, thanks to its nut seed flour blend of almond, sunflower, and flaxseed. This combo delivers healthy fats and fiber, keeping you full longer than refined flour snacks.
EWG’s Food Scores rate the Farmhouse Cheddar as moderately processed—a step above conventional options. Spoon University notes their blood sugar-friendly profile, making them a smart pick for sustained energy.
Why Health-Conscious Consumers Love Them
Free from gluten, dairy (except cheese flavors), and artificial additives, these crackers fit vegan and paleo lifestyles. Fans report better digestion and fewer energy crashes compared to brands like Wheat Thins®.
One reviewer shared:
“After switching to Simple Mills, my bloating disappeared—I’ll never go back to regular crackers.”
While not all flavors are keto-approved, their low sugar content aligns with many dietary goals. The sea salt variety, for instance, uses only 5 ingredients—all pronounceable.
Nutrition Facts: Are Simple Mills Crackers Healthy for Daily Snacking?
Nutrition labels tell only part of the story—let’s decode what’s inside these popular snacks. While they’re praised for clean ingredients, how do they stack up for regular munching?
Macronutrient Breakdown: Protein, Carbs, and Fats
Each serving packs 2g of protein, thanks to almond and sunflower seed flours. That’s slightly more than wheat-based rivals, though not a major boost.
Carbs come from tapioca starch, which has a milder impact on blood sugar than refined flour. With 6-7g of total fat per serving, most are heart-healthy unsaturated fats from seeds.
Dietary Fiber and Sodium Content: Balancing Health and Flavor
You’ll get 1g of dietary fiber per serving—modest, but it aids digestion. Sodium levels range from 170-180mg (7-8% DV), lower than many salty snacks but worth noting if you’re watching intake.
Calorie Density Compared to Traditional Crackers
At 130-150 calories per ounce, these sit in the middle of the pack. EWG’s Food Scores highlight their calorie density, suggesting portion control for weight management.
With just 1g saturated fat and zero trans fat, they’re a smarter pick for heart health. Enjoy them daily? Maybe. But pairing with veggies or hummus balances the scales.
Ingredients in Simple Mills Crackers: What’s Inside?
Behind every bite lies a carefully selected mix of nutrient-packed components. Unlike mass-produced snacks, these rely on whole-food ingredients to deliver flavor and nutrition. Here’s what makes them tick—and what might give pause.
Almond Flour and Seed Blends: The Powerhouse Trio
Almond flour forms the base, offering a gluten-free crunch with healthy fats. Combined with sunflower seeds and flax seeds, this trio packs protein and fiber. Each serving delivers 2g of plant-based protein—enough to curb midday hunger.
Sunflower seeds add vitamin E, while flax contributes omega-3s. As noted in a CostCuisine review, this blend keeps sodium low (120mg per serving) and sugars at zero.
Rosemary Extract: A Natural Preservative
Instead of synthetic additives, you’ll find rosemary extract. This plant-based preservative slows oil rancidity, extending shelf life without artificial chemicals. EWG flags it as a “lower concern” option—unlike BHT in conventional crackers.
Cheese-flavored varieties use enzymes for tanginess. While safe, they’re worth noting for strict vegans.
Organic Status and Processing: The Fine Print
Most ingredients aren’t certified organic, raising questions about GMO potential. However, their moderate processing level (per EWG) beats heavily refined competitors. The absence of artificial colors or flavors keeps the label clean.
As one fan puts it:
“I’ll trade ‘organic’ for recognizable ingredients any day.”
Pros and Cons of Simple Mills Almond Flour Crackers
Balancing nutrition and taste, these almond flour snacks cater to modern dietary preferences. While they shine for specific needs, a few limitations deserve attention.
Benefits: Gluten-Free, Vegan, and Blood Sugar-Friendly
Ideal for restrictive diets, these treats skip gluten, grains, and dairy (except cheese flavors). Their blood sugar impact is milder than refined-carb snacks, thanks to almond flour’s slow digestion.
Key advantages include:
- Gluten-free and paleo-friendly, appealing to sensitive eaters
- Vegan options (like Sea Salt) with zero animal products
- Corn-free and grain-free, reducing common allergen risks
- 2g protein per serving for light satiety
- No artificial additives—just recognizable ingredients
“My energy stays steady with these—no crashes like with regular crackers.”
Potential Drawbacks: Sodium Levels and Processing Concerns
At 120-180mg sodium per serving, they’re lower than chips but still contribute to daily limits. The American Heart Association recommends under 1,500mg—pair them with low-sodium foods.
Processing varies by flavor. Farmhouse Cheddar scores as moderately processed, while Sea Salt earns a cleaner rating. Cross-contamination risks exist in facilities handling dairy or nuts.
For balance, try pairing with veggies or hummus. As noted in this almond flour crackers review, portion control helps manage calorie density.
How Simple Mills Crackers Stack Up Against Other Snacks
When comparing snack options, Simple Mills brings a unique twist to the table. Their almond flour base and clean ingredients set them apart from conventional choices. But how do they really measure up?
Simple Mills vs. Wheat Thins: A Healthier Alternative?
Wheat Thins® dominate shelves with their classic crunch, but Simple Mills offers a healthier alternative. A side-by-side look reveals key differences:
- Protein: Simple Mills delivers 2g per serving vs. Wheat Thins’ 1g.
- Carbs: Tapioca starch in Simple Mills has a milder impact on blood sugar levels.
- Ingredients: No artificial flavors or preservatives, unlike some Wheat Thins varieties.
Spoon University notes Farmhouse Cheddar rivals Cheez-Its® in taste but wins on nutrition. For a deeper dive into gluten-free options, explore certified gluten-free almond flour crackers.
Flavor Varieties: From Farmhouse Cheddar to Sea Salt
Six flavor varieties cater to diverse palates. Smoky BBQ packs a punch, while Sea Salt keeps it minimal. Cheese flavors like Farmhouse Cheddar appeal to children, making lunchboxes easier.
Pair them with hummus or peanut butter for extra protein. Their sturdy crunch holds up well with dips—unlike crumbly rice crackers.
“My kids devour the Farmhouse Cheddar faster than goldfish crackers—win for me!”
Price per ounce is higher than mass-market brands, but the nutrient density justifies the cost for many. Shelf life averages 6 months, ideal for pantry storage.
Conclusion: Are Simple Mills Crackers a Smart Choice?
Finding the right snack means balancing taste and nutrition—Simple Mills delivers both. Their almond flour base and clean ingredients cater to gluten-free and vegan diets, making them a standout healthy snack option.
Enjoy them in moderation due to sodium levels. Pair with hummus or avocado for added protein. Farmhouse Cheddar, Sea Salt, and Smoky BBQ top flavor picks.
Costco offers bulk savings, but single packs let you test favorites. Spoon University’s “100% taste” endorsement holds true—crunchy, flavorful, and guilt-free.
For those prioritizing whole-food ingredients, Simple Mills earns its spot in your pantry. Just balance portions with veggies or dips for the best snack experience.
