A night in with friends, an impromptu snack or drinks to share will often have you reaching for a few crisps and savoury snacks. But eye-catching packaging does not guarantee a flavour you will enjoy, a suitable size or ingredients that meet your expectations.
Three common pitfalls can arise when shopping:
When choosing potato crisps, look at the proportion of potatoes and the type of cut. A ridged cut, such as that used for BRETS Paysanne crisps, offers more texture under your teeth and holds dips more effectively. Thin crisps provide a light bite, while thick or ridged varieties are better suited to dipping.
Corn snacks offer different textures: puffed, sticks, rings or triangles. As they are more airy, they are also often generously seasoned. To create a well-balanced spread, it is best to combine potato crisps, savoury biscuits and crunchy snacks for a variety of sensations.
In France and the European Union, the ingredients list and allergens must be clearly shown on the packaging. In particular, check:
A short ingredients list does not necessarily mean better flavour, but it does make products easier to compare. BRETS Paysanne, for example, lists French potatoes, sunflower oil and Guérande salt. By contrast, some unusual crisps, flavoured with tea, citrus fruit or seafood, deserve particularly careful attention when checking the allergen information.
A 120 to 135 g bag is generally suitable for drinks and nibbles shared by several people, depending on the number of guests and the other food being served. Packs weighing 20 to 30 g are more convenient for individual tasting or putting together an assortment. Packs of four small bags, such as some Modern China Tea Shop products, make it easy to divide portions and try a flavour without committing to a large pack.
Before opening, store the products in a dry place at room temperature, away from light. Once opened, seal the bag carefully or transfer the snacks to an airtight container. Also remember to check the best-before date shown on the packaging.
Why this choice suits this profile : A classic recipe that is easy to serve, made with French potatoes, sunflower oil and Guérande salt.
The product information shows a short ingredients list, with no palm oil, artificial colourings, preservatives or flavour enhancers.
125 g pack, ridged cut and made in France. The stated nutritional values are 544 kcal and 1.1 g of salt per 100 g.
Why this choice suits this profile : This recipe combines a base of French crisps with notes of brie and truffle for a more sophisticated snack.
The product information specifies the presence of cheese powder and flavourings, so you can distinguish the indulgent flavour promise from the actual ingredients.
Made in France, with sunflower oil and milk clearly listed. The 125 g bag is ideal for sharing in moderation.
Why this choice suits this profile : The pack of four 50 g bags is ideal for portioned snacking, breaks and Asian snack assortments.
Individual portions limit contact with the air after each tasting, unlike a large bag that is opened repeatedly.
Corn and sea salt flavour, 200 g in total and 0.6 g of salt per 100 g according to the stated values. Origin: China.
Why this choice suits this profile : This combination of potato and jasmine tea is perfect for curious snackers looking to move beyond classic flavours.
The flavour profile highlights notes of jasmine, honey, milk and parsley; milk and soya are listed among the declared allergens.
80 g pack, ready to enjoy and made in China. An ideal option for occasional discovery or a themed drinks-and-nibbles spread.
We have put together a comprehensive, real-time updated selection of products that meet these demanding criteria as well as European food safety regulations.
Choose two or three textures: ridged crisps for enjoying with dips, savoury biscuits for a drier bite and corn snacks for a variety of shapes. Allow between 120 and 250 g in total, adjusting this according to the number of guests and the other food being served.
Seal the bag with a clip or pour its contents into an airtight container, then store it in a dry place at room temperature. Avoid the fridge: moisture can make the crisps go soft. For imported products, also check the instructions printed on the packaging in French.
No. A description such as “truffle flavour”, “jasmine tea” or “Thai Beef” often refers to a flavour profile rather than a significant quantity of the ingredient shown. Before ordering, check the ingredients list, allergens and importer information.