Kiddylicious is a UK brand that's been making kids snacks since 2009. Their Veggie Straws bring a savory option to a market dominated by sweet fruit snacks. Let's see if the vegetable promise holds up.
The Savory Snack Gap
Most baby and toddler snacks are fruit-based and sweet. This trains taste preferences toward sweetness. Kiddylicious Veggie Straws offer a savory alternative - introducing salt and vegetable flavors alongside the sweet options.
For balanced taste development, kids need exposure to all flavor profiles. Savory snacks fill a real gap.
Ingredient Analysis
Veggie Straws contain:
- Corn starch
- Rice flour
- Vegetable powders (spinach, beetroot, carrot, tomato)
- Sunflower oil
- Sea salt
Vegetables are present but not first - corn and rice form the base with vegetable powders adding color and flavor. This is more honest than brands claiming "veggie" with vegetables last.
Nutritional Profile
Per serving:
- Calories: 55
- Protein: <1g
- Fiber: <1g
- Sugar: 0.3g
- Sodium: 90mg
Nearly zero sugar - a stark contrast to fruit-based alternatives. The sodium is present but modest (lower than many adult snacks).
These provide minimal nutritional value beyond the vegetable exposure and savory taste training.
The Fun Factor
Straw shapes are genuinely fun for kids. They can:
- Look through them
- Stack them
- Hold them like straws
- Pretend to drink through them
This play value gets snacks eaten that might otherwise be rejected. Fun shapes matter for acceptance.
Taste and Texture
Veggie Straws are light, crispy, and dissolve reasonably well (important for younger toddlers). The vegetable flavor is mild - you know there's something green, but it's not overpowering.
My kids described them as "french fries but different" - which I consider a win for vegetable snack acceptance.
UK Brand Standards
Kiddylicious was developed for the UK market, where children's food regulations are stricter than US requirements. Products sold in the US meet American standards, but the brand philosophy reflects UK origins.
They avoid artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives across their product line.
Value Assessment
At $4.49 for a 4-pack (~$1.12/serving), Kiddylicious prices at the premium end of puffed snacks:
- More expensive than generic veggie straws
- Similar to other premium toddler snacks
The UK brand premium and specialty positioning drive pricing.
Availability Challenges
Kiddylicious is available at:
- Amazon (most reliable)
- Some Target locations
- World Market
- Specialty baby stores
Distribution is limited compared to mainstream brands. Online ordering may be necessary.
Vegetable Content Reality Check
Let's be clear: these aren't vegetable servings. The vegetable powders add color, flavor, and some nutrients, but corn starch and rice flour dominate.
"Veggie Straws" is marketing. "Starch straws with vegetable flavoring" is accurate. Set expectations accordingly.
Who Should Buy This
Families seeking savory (not sweet) baby snack options. Parents wanting to diversify taste exposure beyond fruit flavors. Those who can order online or access specialty stores.
Who Should Skip This
Families expecting significant vegetable nutrition. Budget-focused parents - generic options are cheaper. Those wanting starch-free or grain-free options.
The Verdict
Kiddylicious Veggie Straws provide what's missing in the baby snack aisle: a savory, low-sugar option that introduces vegetable flavors. Don't expect vegetable servings - these are puffed starch snacks with vegetable enhancement. For flavor variety and fun shapes, they fill a useful niche.
