THE PULSE

When you’re hungry on your way to work, looking for a snack while running holiday errands, or traveling out of town, you’re never too far from a Starbucks. This coffee chain is everywhere, and it’s good to have some healthy snack choices at the ready for the next time you find yourself in the Starbucks drive-thru line, stomach growling. Here are some healthier snacks to grab at your local coffee chain.

1. Egg White and Red Pepper Sous Vide Bites

These sous vide bites are smooth, creamy and warm—basically a mini egg white omelet. If you prefer your egg bites with the yolk (which has some awesome health benefits but does make them higher in calories and cholesterol), we recommend the Kale & Portabella Mushroom Sous Vide Egg Bites—which are also higher in fiber.

2. Classic Oatmeal

A classic for a reason! Add the packets of nuts and fruit for a tasty nutrition boost, but we suggest skipping the brown sugar if you’re trying to keep it extra healthy. Many people like this one with a splash of milk. If you’re eating this as a meal rather than a snack, try pairing it with the sous vide bites for a super filling breakfast.

3. Spinach, Feta & Egg White Wrap

If you’re craving a warm breakfast sandwich from Starbucks, we’d rather point you towards this toasted wrap instead. This vegetarian option features a whole-wheat wrap, roasted tomatoes, spinach, and egg whites. While the feta on this wrap is delicious, it also bumps up the sodium level (to 37% of your daily recommended amount), so if you’re starting your day with this wrap, make sure to keep an eye on your sodium intake at lunch and dinner.

4. Chicken & Quinoa Protein Bowl

This one’s a hearty lunch full of black beans, greens, tomatoes, and grilled chicken. If you’re looking for something satisfying, this one has 27 grams of protein to keep you feeling full and energized. The protein bowl is a little higher in sugar than we’d expect (11 grams), so if you’re watching your sugar intake, consider using less dressing or even bringing your own.

5. Egg & Cheddar Protein Box

Starbucks’s protein boxes are mini meals that might bring back memories of eating your (or your kids’) Lunchables. TBH, our choice of protein box usually depends on mood (they have over 10 options, though availability varies by location) but the egg and cheddar is a go-to because it’s so satisfying: it features two hard-boiled eggs, apple slices, grapes, muesli bread and peanut butter.