The hunt to find nutritious, convenient snacks is seemingly never-ending. There are a ton of options, but it seems like consumers just can’t get enough. Because of that, more and more options are showing up on supermarket shelves, and we’re thrilled to see it.
Our latest find is Go Raw Sprouted Organic Pumpkin Seeds with Sea Salt. These plant-based, gluten-free, kosher, keto-friendly, paleo-friendly and non-GMO pepitas are made with only 2 ingredients – organic sprouted pumpkin seeds and sea salt.
Each 1/4-cup serving is 180-calories, 2-grams of fiber and 8-grams of protein. Not only are the macros pretty stellar for a seed-based snack, pumpkin seeds are also a source of essential micronutrients, including zinc, magnesium, phosphorus, manganese and copper.
Related: Costco’s New Nutrient-Packed Water Boasts 15-Grams of Protein
You may be wondering why “sprouted” products have been popping up (pun intended) everywhere. Sprouted seeds and grains are picked before they’re fully mature. They’ve become more mainstream because of their potential health benefits. One of the main benefits is nutrients in sprouted seeds are likely more bioavailable, meaning more of them could be absorbed and utilized by the body.
Additionally, sprouted seeds and grains may be more easily digested and may improve overall gut health, meaning those who get bloating or discomfort from eating non-sprouted seeds or grains may not experience those symptoms from the sprouted version (the same reason for sprouted grain bread’s increase in popularity).
We suggest eating these sprouted pumpkin seeds as a snack, mixing them into a trail mix with unsweetened dried fruit, or sprinkling them on top of yogurt parfaits, oatmeal and salads. You can also use them as a topping for baked goods like muffins and scones.
Go Raw’s packaging suggests refrigerating sprouted seeds to help preserve freshness after opening, however, it’s not required. If you’re taking them on-the-go or storing them without access to a refrigerator, simply keep them in a cool, dry place.
Fans seem to be enjoying this snack, with rave reviews on Costco’s website. “I keep a small scooper in the bag and eat some of these every morning with my coffee. The natural potassium and magnesium give me that boost I need to get going. Also the protein, zinc and copper are a plus. Love these and it is one product that I believe I will [be] keeping for life”, said one person.
Go Raw Drops 22-Ounce Bag of Micronutrient-Packed Sprouted Organic Pumpkin Seeds at Costco
“Great for breakfast with oatmeal or as a sub for nuts in recipes. Used in a bean burrito today. Delicious and easily digestible, which is often not the case with seeds. I used to soak, roast and salt my own. These are def worth the extra $ to not have to do all of that”, stated another fan.
Go Raw also sells sprouted sunflower seeds, sprouted sunflower seeds and sprouted mixed seeds, salted and unsalted seed mixes, one of which includes sprouted watermelon seeds. Additionally, they make snacking granola mixes in sweet and salty, cherry berry chocolate chunk, chocolate peanut butter, dark chocolate chunk and cranberry almond, as well as salad toppers in Italian herb, garlic thyme and sea salt and cracked black pepper. And lastly, sprouted snack “clusters” in dark chocolate and sweet and salty varieties.
It’s safe to say there’s something on this list that’ll make your mouth water for a snack that’s salty or sweet (or both). You can find where each of their products can be purchased on their website’s store locator.
We know the 22-ounce resealable bag of Go Raw Organic Sprouted Pumpkin Seeds can be purchased at Costco for $11.99, but they’re on sale for $8.39 until September 21, so don’t wait around if you’re interested in giving them a try.
Related: Gatorade’s New Hydration Packets Offer Convenient Flavor and Electrolytes to Keep You Going