Best Saltine Crackers (April 2024) - Rated by CherryPicks' Experts

Saltine Crackers: The Ultimate Guide to History, Uses, and Benefits!

Originating in the 1800s, Saltine Crackers quickly rose to prominence in the U.S., becoming a household staple. Deriving its name from the distinct salty flavor imparted by the coarse salt on its surface, these crackers are occasionally referred to as "soda crackers" due to the inclusion of baking soda in their recipe. Crafted from white flour, yeast, and baking soda, these thin, square crackers are celebrated for their light, crispy texture and subtle saltiness. For those seeking a healthier twist, whole grain versions are also available.

When Is It Suitable to Eat Saltine Crackers?

Saltine crackers are suitable to eat in various situations, including:

• As a snack: Saltine crackers can be enjoyed on their own or paired with toppings like cheese, peanut butter, or hummus for a quick and easy snack.
• Accompaniment to soups, chilis, and stews: Saltines can be crumbled into soups, chilis, and stews to add texture and flavor.
• In salads: Crushed saltine crackers can be used as croutons in salads, adding a crunchy element.
• Appetizers: Saltines can be used as a base for creative appetizers, such as topped with smoked salmon, cream cheese, and chives, or with herbed goat cheese, cherry tomato slices, and fresh basil.
• In recipes: Saltine crackers can be used in various recipes, such as pie crusts, breading for chicken, or as a binding agent in meatloaf and meatballs.
• To ease stomach pain and nausea: Saltine crackers are often recommended for people with an upset stomach, as they are bland, low-fat, and slightly salty, which can help soothe irritation and nausea.

Remember to consume saltine crackers in moderation, as they are low in nutrients and can be high in sodium. Pair them with healthier options like nut butter, dairy, legumes, meat, fish, and poultry for more nutritious snacks.

Saltine Crackers Facts and Trends

Some interesting facts and trends about saltine crackers include:

• Market growth: The saltine crackers subcategory made $554 million in sales in a year, with a 14.9% increase. Nabisco's saltine crackers contributed $361 million of that, with a 15.1% increase.
• Healthier options: In response to the growing demand for healthier snack options, manufacturers have started offering saltine crackers made with whole grains, reduced sodium, or organic ingredients.
• Flavored varieties: While traditional saltine crackers are typically plain and lightly salted, manufacturers have introduced flavored varieties to cater to different consumer preferences.
• Consumption trends: In 2020, 259.24 million Americans consumed snack crackers, saltines, and graham crackers. This figure is projected to increase to 267.03 million in 2024.From statista.com
• Buttered saltine crackers: A recent snack trend involves spreading butter on saltine crackers, creating a simple and tasty 2-ingredient snack

The saltine crackers market has witnessed significant growth, generating $554 million in annual sales, a surge of 14.9%. Nabisco's contribution to this figure stands at $361 million, marking a 15.1% increase. This growth can be attributed to evolving consumer preferences. Recognizing the rising demand for healthier snacks, manufacturers now offer saltine crackers with whole grains, reduced sodium, and organic ingredients. 

Beyond the traditional plain and lightly salted variants, flavored versions have also been introduced to cater to diverse tastes. According to Statista, in 2020, snack crackers, including saltines and graham crackers, were consumed by 259.24 million Americans, a number expected to climb to 267.03 million by 2024. A trending snack hack involves buttering saltine crackers, transforming them into a delightful two-ingredient treat.

Factors to Choosing the Best Saltine Crackers

When choosing the best saltine crackers, consider the following factors:

Taste and Texture

• Crispiness: Saltine crackers should have a dry and crisp texture, which makes them enjoyable to eat and easy to snap.
• Saltiness: The saltiness of saltine crackers can vary between brands. Some people prefer a more heavily salted cracker, while others may opt for a lighter salt flavor.
• Flakiness: High-quality saltine crackers should be flaky and not overly dry.

Health Considerations

• Sodium content: Saltine crackers can be high in sodium, which may contribute to health issues like high blood pressure and heart disease if consumed in excess. Look for low-sodium or unsalted options if you're concerned about sodium intake
• Whole grain options: Whole grain saltine crackers provide more fiber and nutrients compared to those made with refined white flour.
• Calories and fat: Saltine crackers are generally low in calories and fat, making them a suitable snack option in moderation.

Ingredients and Quality

• Quality of ingredients: Look for saltine crackers made with high-quality ingredients, such as unbleached enriched flour and healthier oils like canola oil.
• Additives and preservatives: Some saltine crackers may contain additives or preservatives that could have negative health effects. Opt for crackers with minimal additives and preservatives.
• Allergens: Be aware of potential allergens in saltine crackers, such as wheat, if you have food sensitivities or allergies.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best saltine crackers that suit your taste preferences, health considerations, and ingredient quality requirements.

Round Up of the Best Saltine Crackers (Verified to Buy)

• 1. Premium Original Saltine Crackers, 16 oz - PACK OF 3
• 2. Zesta Saltine Crackers, Soup Crackers, Lunch Snacks, Original, 16oz Box...
• 3. Premium Saltine Crackers, Family Size, 3 Boxes
• 4. Premium Original Saltine Crackers, 16 oz
• 5. Krispy, Saltine Crackers, Original, 16 oz
• 6. Premium Original Fresh Stacks Saltine Crackers, 13.6 oz, 2 Pack
• 7. Keebler, Zesta, Saltine Crackers, Original, Single Serve, 0.20 Oz(Pack of...
• 8. Premium Original Fresh Stacks Saltine Crackers, 13.6 oz
• 9. Premium Original Saltine Crackers, Family Size, 6 - 24 oz...
• 10. Premium Whole Grain Saltine Crackers, 1.06 lb

Top 8 Saltine Crackers Brands on Amazon

Here is the list of top-rated brands that were evaluated by CherryPicks.

• Premium
• Zesta
• KRISPY
• Kellogg's
• Westminster Cracker
• DUX
• Keebler
• NABISCO

Saltine Crackers FAQs

Are saltine crackers healthy?

Saltine crackers are low in calories and fat but provide little fiber and nutrients. They can be part of a healthy diet when consumed in moderation. However, they are considered a processed food and can be high in sodium, which may contribute to health issues like high blood pressure and heart disease if consumed in excess.

Why do saltines help an upset stomach?

Saltines are often recommended for an upset stomach because of their bland nature. They can help absorb excess stomach acid and are easy to digest. The simple carbohydrates in saltines can also provide a quick energy source, which can be beneficial when the stomach is unsettled, and one might not be eating regular meals.

Can Type 2 diabetics eat saltine crackers?

While Type 2 diabetics can consume saltine crackers, it's essential to do so in moderation. Saltines are made from refined white flour, which can cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels. It's always a good idea to pair them with a protein or healthy fat to balance the glycemic load and consult with a nutritionist or doctor about individual dietary needs.

Why do saltines have 13 holes?

Having baked and observed saltines, I've noticed the 13 holes in each cracker. These holes aren't just for decoration; they allow steam to escape during baking. This prevents the crackers from puffing up and ensures they remain flat and crisp.

How many calories are in saltine crackers?

Five regular saltines (about 15 grams) contain approximately 63.2 calories, 11.2 grams of carbohydrates, 1.4 grams of protein, 1.3 grams of fat, and 0.4 grams of fiber.

Top 10 Saltine Crackers Sellers: CPR Seller Rank List

CPR sellers rank is based on CherryPicks-AI bestselling ranking system that helps us analyze each seller's sales trends. The List of top seller ranks is our in-house data, essential for our product ranking to help you make the right shopping choice.