I love going to the movies. There’s something so thrilling about the moment the theater goes quiet and the opening credits start to play. Of course, no movie experience is complete without some snacks to accompany the film. However, it can be tricky to find healthy movie theater snacks that aren’t packed with hidden fats and calories.
These snacks are all about 200 calories or less per serving with less than 15 grams of fat. You might read that and think “that’s definitely not healthy,” but I want to make it clear that I am not trying to say that any of these snacks are “healthy.” These snacks are just better options than some of the other, crazy unhealthy treats at most movie theaters.
Chocolate-Covered Nuts
I always crave chocolate at the movies, but the giant packs of Butterfingers or Reese’s are definitely not the healthiest snack option. If you’re craving something chocolatey, try going for some chocolate-covered nuts. These provide protein to fill you up and aren’t as unhealthy as other chocolate options. For example, a serving of Goober’s has 5 grams of protein, 210 calories, and 14 grams of fat. Dark-chocolate covered nuts would be an even better choice if they’re available.
Popcorn with No Butter
Popcorn is the OG movie theater snack, and for many it can be hard to enjoy a movie without that salty, satisfying crunch. I get it, but movie theater popcorn packs a lot of calories. Your best bet is to get popcorn with no butter, since butter can add almost 150 calories to your snack. I learned from my mom to always get a kids’ sized popcorn rather than a small. It’s far healthier and still super filling.
Raisinets
Raisinets are another good choice when it comes to healthy movie theater snacks. One serving comes in at about 190 calories and 5 grams of saturated fat. However, raisins are super rich in antioxidants, which bumps them up a peg on the healthiness meter.
Twizzlers
If you’re more of a gummy bear lover, Twizzlers are one of the healthiest options for you. They come in at 150 calories, with 0 grams of saturated fat. Hello, Mr. Twizzler, allow me to introduce myself, I’m Emma, your new biggest consumer.
Swedish Fish
Swedish Fish are also a great choice for those of you who prefer fruity gummy snacks. One serving has only 150 calories, and 0 grams of fat. That being said, non-chocolate desserts tend to have a TON of sugar and Swedish Fish and Twizzlers are no exception. As with everything on this list they are by no means the healthiest options, but they’re better for you than some other, less healthy movie theater snacks.
Red Hots
If you like to keep things a lil spicy while you watch the latest blockbuster, look no further than Red Hots. These cinnamon-flavored treats are only 60 calories and they contain no fat. They also have less sugar than both Twizzlers and Swedish Fish. I call that a “red hot” snack.
Pretzel Bites
If you want something from the hot food section of the snack stand, you should go for pretzel bites with no toppings. Melted cheese adds a lot of fat and calories. The pretzel bites are about 150-200 calories, depending on the theater. Be wary of larger soft pretzels because they tend to have more calories.
Overall, there are ways to cut down on calories and fat when at the movies without necessarily sacrificing the full experience. However, if you’re really trying to make a change in your diet I would suggest forgoing snacks at the theater itself altogether. Sneak in some of these healthy snacks instead—just don’t tell them I told you to do it if you get caught.