There are healthy Halloween treat options

By Kim Asche
University of Minnesota Extension
Regional Office, Hutchinson
We all know that Halloween is about kids and candy…but you could hand out other treats that may provide vitamins, minerals and fiber and be lower in fat and sugar!

Now before you start to laugh, I’m not suggesting the typical healthy idea…fresh fruit – we all know that’s not a safe option any longer. But there are many individually packaged food items that would make great treat choices for all those youngsters that will visit your front door. Double checked with a youth on the selection you choose to passed out, for their “cool” test with a big thumb’s up!

Individually packaged:
Raisins 
Chocolate covered raisins

Animal crackers

Pretzels

Cracker/cheese pack

Mozzarella string cheese

Gold fish crackers

Teddy Grahams

Microwave popcorn

Peanut butter crackers

Ready to eat cereal

Cracker jacks

Pumpkin seeds

Granola bar

Mixed nuts (be careful of peanut allergies)

Cheese dip
Fruit roll-up

100-percent mini juice box

Dried fruit

Gummy candies made with real juice

100-calorie packs of various product
s
Beef or turkey jerky

Jello with fruit

Pudding

Applesauce

Bean dip

Trail mix

Sugar free gum

If you definitely want to give candy for treats, consider dark chocolate versions or choose bite-size candy bars based on the least amount of fat and calories for serving.

Source: Missouri Families.