People don't usually think of snack bars as being items that are kept in the cupboard with no refrigeration. However, more and more companies are beginning to make refrigerated snack bars. This allows them to use more unique ingredients, and to create bars with higher levels of hydration, which can make them easier to chew and less dehydrating to consume. If you're interested in branching out in your snack bar experience, you may be thinking of switching to these refrigerated snack bars. Here are some tips to help you make the change.
Try a few different brands
There are simply more ingredients that can be used in a refrigerated snack bar since the manufacturers aren't worried about choosing only shelf-stable ingredients. For this reason, there tends to be a lot of variation between brands. So, when you're first starting to use refrigerated snack bars, you should try a couple of different brands before settling on one. You may not like one, but you may find another one incredibly delicious.
Check how long the bars can be left out
Some refrigerated snack bars can actually be left on the counter, out of the fridge, for a few hours or even a half day. Read the package to see how long the bars you bought can be left out. This way, you know whether you're able to pack them in a lunch, whether you can keep them in your office without a refrigerator, and whether you need to keep an ice pack with them when you take them somewhere further away.
Figure out how many you eat in a week
Refrigerated snack bars tend to have a much shorter "life" than non-refrigerated ones. For example, refrigerated bars may last only two weeks, while non-refrigerated bars can last for months. Because of this shorter shelf-life, you'll need to buy refrigerated bars more often. So, it is helpful to figure out how many you go through in a certain period of time. This way, you can purchase the right number when you go to the grocery store and won't be left without bars until your next trip.
Refrigerated snack bars have a lot of benefits over non-refrigerated bars. However, making the switch can take some time. Follow the tips above so that you can make the transition seamlessly. Over time, you'll discover some favorite snack bars you go back to again and again.
Visit a store near you to see your options for refrigerated snack bars.
