If you’ve got a picky eater at home, you know they can struggle to eat enough protein. Plus, it’s difficult to find quality high-protein foods for picky eaters that are pre-made or store-bought.
That’s why I’ve curated 20 high-protein store-bought foods for picky eaters. Although each product on this list is pre-packaged, that doesn’t mean they skip on high-quality nutrition.
How much protein do kids need?
Kids need enough protein for growth, mental development, and a healthy immune system. Their daily protein needs change as they get older.
Minimum daily protein goal based on age (1):
- 7-12 months: 1.2 grams/kg body weight
- 1-3 years: 1 gram/kg body weight
- 4-13 years: 0.95 grams/kg body weight
- 14-18 years: 0.85 grams/kg body weight
High Protein Foods For Picky Eaters (Store-bought)
Cheese Whisps (9g)
Cheese whisps are basically a higher protein version of a cracker! If your picky eater demands crackers with every meal or snack, this is a great way to get a quick 9 grams of protein in. Plus, they are a great source of calcium!
Stonyfield Yogurt Pouches (5g)
Stonyfield yogurt pouches have a huge variety of flavors and don’t skip on quality ingredients. The whole milk used is a great source of healthy fats, the probiotics promote proper gut function, and the additional calcium helps strengthen bones.
Plus, the pouch format means it’s a mess-free option for a snack in the car, post-game fuel, or a high protein option packed for lunch.
Peanut Butter or Almond Butter Pouches (7g)
Nut butter is a great source of protein, but also can be an example of healthy fats and fiber. These to-go pouches give all the benefits of nut butter but without all the mess!
P3 Nut & Cheese Pack (14g)
The P3 Nut & Cheese Pack has a variety of deli meats, cheeses, and nuts. Not only does it provide a substantial protein boost, but it also offers healthy fats, calcium, and other essential nutrients, making it a great option for a snack or meal.
Roasted Edamame Beans (11g)
Roasted edamame beans are a high protein version of crackers or chips – same crunchy texture and salty flavor, but packed with protein! Also, they are a great source of fiber, iron, and folate.
Hummus & Pretzel Pack (10g)
Hummus is rich in plant-based protein, fiber, and healthy fats, while pretzels provide complex carbohydrates, making this duo a well-rounded choice to fuel the body and satisfy hunger.
Low Sugar Chocolate Milk (18g)
Chocolate milk offers essential nutrients like calcium, vitamin D, and high-quality protein which supports muscle recovery and bone health. Without all the added sugar, it makes for a great long-lasting energy source.
RX Bar (12g)
RX Bars have incredibly simple ingredients and a large variety of flavors for kids to choose from. The super simple ingredients also make it great for kids with allergies to gluten or dairy.
Chomps Beef Sticks (10g)
With no added sugars, artificial flavors, or preservatives, these beef sticks offer a clean and nutritious protein source, supporting muscle repair, satiety, and sustained energy throughout the day.
Perfect Snacks Peanut Butter Cups (7g)
Maybe the easiest high protein option for picky eaters on this list! What’s not to love about high-protein peanut butter cups? 🙂
Crunchy Chickpeas (6g)
Even if your picky eater hasn’t enjoyed chickpeas, I would still give these crunchy baked chickpeas a try! The texture is crisp and crunchy, just like potato chips or crackers. And because they are made from only chickpeas, it’s a great source of fiber and protein.
KIND Granola (10g)
This granola comes in a variety of flavors and is a great topper for milk, yogurt, or a smoothie. Plus, it’s an easy source of protein for picky eaters who stray away from meat products.
Trail Mix (5g)
Any trail mix could be a good option here, but sticking to ones with natural sweetness from dried fruit is always my pick! You can even make your own “snack mix” from home with a variety of your kid’s current favorites mixed with some new foods from this list.
Protein Smoothie Pouches (12g)
These smoothie pouches offer a convenient and nutritious way to enjoy a protein-packed snack with 12 grams per serving. They are also naturally sweetened with real fruit juice – zero grams of added sugar!
IQ Bar (12g)
These bars have 12 grams of protein, 0 grams of sugar, and tons of prebiotics for added gut health! They are also great for my picky eaters with type 1 diabetes, because they are super high in fiber (9 grams) which makes them great for controlling blood sugars.
Catalina Crunch Snack Mix (10g)
This snack mix has both savory and sweet options, so it’s a great protein-alternative to chips or crackers. It’s also a great option for kids with diabetes, because of the blood-sugar-friendly fiber and protein.
Two Good Yogurt (12g)
This is one of my favorite yogurt brands to recommend for kids! Its a great option for added probiotics and protein, but without all the added sugar that most kid’s yogurt have.
Flavored Cottage Cheese (17g)
Cottage Cheese is rich in calcium, B vitamins, and probiotics which supports bone heath and digestion. If your picky eater doesn’t like the texture of cottage cheese, try blending it! It turns into a yogurt-like texture and flavor.
Orgain Kids Protein Shakes (8g)
My favorite protein shake to recommend for kids! In my opinion, it tastes the most like regular chocolate milk, but with added protein, vitamins, and minerals. A win-win for my picky eaters!
Perfect Bar Snack Size (6g)
Perfect Bars are made from whole-food ingredients like nut butter, oats, and honey. They provide a balanced combination of protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates, promoting sustained energy and fullness. Plus, they taste great!
I hope this post was helpful to find some quick, premade, yet healthy high protein foods for picky eaters. For more information on picky eating, check out the best vegetables to introduce to picky eaters or 3 ways to prevent worsened picky eating.
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