4 TASTY Halloween Alternatives

What are you dishing out at your house this year for Halloween?

I just read a pretty surprising stat -- kids eat an average of 3 cups of candy on Halloween.  I wonder how much sugar and food coloring that is?

THREE CUPS!  I’m not trying to be a Scrooge ... I’ll certainly indulge in some myself and so will our girls.  But knowing this, what if instead of supporting that annual tradition, YOU offered something different?

If each reader did, that can ultimately make a difference at the end of the day.

We did last and plan to again this year.

Here are a few options you can consider.

Justin’s 80 calorie peanut butter packs.  They’re a perfect dose of peanut butter with a little hint of sweetness, like dark chocolate or maple.  Scrumptious!  Oh yeah, Justin’s also makes peanut butter cups that are fantastic ... but I forgot we’re avoiding handing out candy.

Better for you granola bars. After recently attending the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics annual meeting I was introduced to a bar I tasted and fell in love with.  They're brand new from the makers of KIND -- just this time, it’s KIND Healthy Grains Bars, which will be in stores this month.  They taste awesome, so the neighborhood kids won’t be disappointed - and as a parent and KIND client, I’m happy that they’re loaded with goodness. Here’s a link to check them out.

Another great option and one we’ve dished out in the past (and will again this year) are Wonderful Pistachios. While you think we may get egged for not giving out the traditional candy, we had the exact opposite response last year ... and learned that kids like different.  They have an entire bag of candy.  Why not give them something you can feel good about giving out and something to balance out the pounds of candy they have in their bags?  I partnered with them because it makes me happy helping kids avoid the sugar overload from candy with a savory nutritious snack like pistachios.  They have no added sugars and are a great combination of protein, fiber and healthy fats.  Oh yeah -- added benefit -- when you have leftovers, at just 80 calories per Wonderful Pistachios 1-oz bag, you yourself won't also feel guilty snacking on these tasty delights.

Mini Clif Bars. These little nuggets of goodness are perfect giveaways.  And, trust me when I say kids are excited about these, I mean it.  Especially the coconut chocolate flavor.  Hello, YUM!

There you have it -- a few different options for Halloween this year.  The best part of any of these...leftovers rule!

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