Asian snacks have so much to offer: varied textures, bold seasonings and recipes from China, Korea, Japan, Thailand and other parts of Asia. But a colourful packet and the promise of an "authentic taste" aren't enough to guarantee a choice that suits your habits here in the UK.
Before you fill your basket, keep three pitfalls in mind:
In the UK, pre-packaged food labelling must clearly identify ingredients and regulated allergens. Pay particular attention to the items highlighted in the list: wheat or gluten, soya, milk, fish, sesame and sulphites.
Wuxianzhai vegetable strips, for example, contain wheat and soya, even though they are presented as a plant-based alternative. HOYA Vegan Jerky also contains soya and wheat protein. These products may suit certain vegetarian or flexitarian diets, but not those who need to avoid these allergens.
For wasabi peas and spicy broad beans, also check for the possible presence of sweeteners. Some products contain aspartame as well as a source of phenylalanine – something to consider depending on your circumstances.
The per 100g column makes it easy to compare products, but the weight of the packet is just as important. A 50g bag obviously isn't the same quantity as a 180g format, even if the recipe is similar.
A few benchmarks taken from product descriptions:
These figures alone don't make a product "healthy" or "light" without considering your overall diet. They mainly help you compare recipes and portions on an objective basis.
Chinese snacks made from gluten, plant-based meat strips and vegan jerky generally offer a soft, chewy texture. Seaweed, wasabi peas and Asian crisps focus more on crunch.
To keep that texture, seal the packets carefully and follow the storage conditions on the packaging. Some products need to be eaten quickly after opening, while those that require refrigeration need extra attention.
An individual format slips easily into a bag, desk drawer or lunchbox. Larger bags are better for sharing, provided you can reseal them properly.
Why this choice suits this profile: At 50g, this packet lets you discover Korean flavours without committing to a large format. Ready to eat, it's ideal for those who enjoy a spicy kick.
The small format stops you from leaving a large bag open. The label clearly states the presence of wheat and the nutritional values for the full 50g.
50g portion, ready-to-eat product and spicy Korean-inspired seasoning.
Why this choice suits this profile: This Korean product combines crispy nori sheets with a wasabi seasoning, all divided into three 5g sachets.
The separate sachets limit exposure to moisture after opening and help you control how much you eat.
Three 5g sachets, Pyropia Yezoensis seaweed listed at 52% in the description and a lovely crunchy texture.
Why this choice suits this profile: Its 12 individual portions are ideal for fans of savoury Chinese snacks. They let you vary between three seasonings or take just a few sachets with you.
The 12 × 8g packaging stops you from keeping a main bag open. The presence of fish and soya is clearly stated on the product page.
Three flavours, 12 portions, ready-to-eat product and anchovy content stated at a minimum of 69%.
Why this choice suits this profile: This Korean vegan jerky offers a chewy texture and black pepper seasoning in a handy 50g packet.
The ingredients clearly state it's made from textured vegetable protein containing soya and wheat. You can check its suitability before buying, rather than relying solely on the term "vegan".
50g, 22g of protein per 100g according to the product page, a texture reminiscent of plant-based meat and black pepper flavours.
We've put together a comprehensive, real-time selection of products that meet these exacting standards and comply with European safety regulations.
To play with textures, combine roasted seaweed, wasabi peas, spicy broad beans and Asian crisps. Individual formats are especially handy for offering several flavours without leaving all the packets open. Just remember to check the salt content and allergens before putting your selection together.
Yes. Some products are made from vegetable proteins, soya, wheat or peas. Wuxianzhai products, HOYA Vegan Jerky and certain savoury Asian biscuits can fall into this category, depending on their ingredients. The terms "vegetarian" and "vegan" don't replace reading the ingredients list, particularly to check for gluten and soya.
Keep dry products in a cool, dry place away from light. Seal packets of crisps, peas and broad beans carefully to preserve their crunch. If the label recommends refrigeration after opening, follow that instruction and the stated consumption period. Non-alcoholic drinks and other imported beverages should also be stored according to the manufacturer's instructions.