Finding delicious, satisfying snacks that contain zero carbs is crucial for anyone on a low-carb or ketogenic diet. Whether you’re maintaining ketosis or simply trying to cut down on carbohydrates, it’s crucial to have a variety of options that don’t derail your progress. Fortunately, there are plenty of zero-carb snacks that can help you stay full, energized, and in fat-burning mode.
Here’s a list of 100 zero carb snacks you can enjoy, ranging from savory to crunchy, to keep you satisfied without the carbs.
Meat-based zero carb snacks
These snacks are protein-packed and loaded with healthy fats, making them ideal for those on keto or low-carb diets. Be sure to check labels for sugar, as some pre-packaged items may sneak in carbs.
- Pepperoni Slices (Zero Sugar) – Sliced pepperoni is a fantastic, flavorful snack that’s carb-free when made without added sugars. Try crisping them in the oven for a crunchy treat.
- Beef Jerky (Zero Carb, No Sugar) – Many types of jerky contain sugar, but zero-carb, no-sugar varieties are perfect for snacking. Look for beef jerky brands that focus on clean ingredients.
- Salami (Zero Carb) – Rich and salty, salami is a satisfying snack on its own. Check the ingredients for sugar or fillers, and stick to uncured or natural options.
- Bacon Strips – Few snacks are as satisfying as crispy bacon. Bacon is naturally zero-carb as long as it’s not cured with sugar.
- Grilled Chicken Bites (Plain) – Grilled chicken is lean and filling. Cook up extra portions and keep them handy for a quick, zero-carb snack on the go.
- Pork Rinds – Pork rinds are a keto staple. They provide a crunchy texture and are completely carb-free, made from fried pork skin.
- Beef or Pork Cracklings – These are similar to pork rinds but are made with more fat attached, making them an even more decadent snack.
- Turkey Slices (No Sugar Added) – Thinly sliced turkey, particularly deli meat without sugar or fillers, is a lean and convenient zero-carb snack.
- Tuna in Water or Olive Oil – Canned tuna is an excellent zero-carb snack rich in protein and healthy fats. Choose varieties packed in olive oil for extra richness.
- Canned Sardines (In Oil) – Sardines are a nutrient powerhouse. They’re packed with omega-3 fatty acids and come with zero carbs when canned in olive oil or water.
Cheese-based zero carb snacks
Cheese is an essential snack for keto enthusiasts, offering satisfying fat with minimal to no carbs.
- Cheddar Cheese Cubes (Check Label for Zero Carb) – Many cheddar cheeses are zero-carb or extremely low-carb. Cubes or slices of cheddar are perfect for snacking.
- Parmesan Crisps – Parmesan cheese, when baked into crisps, becomes a crunchy, carb-free snack that’s ideal for dipping or enjoying alone.
- Swiss Cheese Slices – Swiss cheese is another great zero-carb option, known for its slightly nutty flavor and satisfying texture.
- Mozzarella String Cheese – Mozzarella string cheese is a popular snack due to its convenience and low-carb count. It’s an easy grab-and-go option.
- Gouda Cheese Slices – Rich and creamy, Gouda cheese has virtually no carbs and is delicious when sliced and paired with cold cuts.
- Halloumi Grilled Slices – Halloumi is a firm cheese that grills well without melting, making it a tasty, carb-free snack with a chewy texture.
- Feta Cheese (Check Label for Zero Carb) – Feta cheese is a tangy, salty cheese that’s often zero-carb. It can be enjoyed in salads or on its own.
- Cream Cheese (Plain) – Cream cheese is soft, creamy, and completely carb-free. Spread it on cucumber slices or just enjoy it straight with a spoon!
- Goat Cheese – Goat cheese has a slightly tangy taste and is very low or zero-carb, depending on the brand. It’s perfect for pairing with meats or veggies.
- Brie Cheese – Brie is a soft cheese that’s rich and indulgent, and it’s naturally very low in carbs, making it a perfect keto snack.
Seafood-based zero carb snacks
Seafood is an excellent source of protein and healthy fats with zero carbs.
- Sashimi (Raw Fish, No Rice) – Sashimi, which is simply slices of raw fish, contains no carbs and is a staple for those looking for a clean, zero-carb protein source.
- Canned Tuna in Olive Oil – Tuna packed in olive oil provides healthy fats and is completely free of carbs, making it both tasty and filling.
- Grilled Calamari – Grilled squid (calamari) is a flavorful, zero-carb snack. Just avoid the battered and fried version!
- Caviar – Caviar is carb-free and loaded with nutrients, making it an indulgent, luxurious snack option.
- Lobster Tail (No Sauce) – Lobster tail is rich, buttery, and carb-free when enjoyed on its own without added sauces.
- Grilled Salmon Bites – Salmon is high in omega-3s and provides a filling, zero-carb snack when grilled with butter or olive oil.
- Crab Legs – Crab legs are a delicious and carb-free seafood snack. Serve with melted butter for added richness.
- Anchovy Fillets – Anchovies are salty, rich in omega-3s, and completely free of carbs. They’re perfect on their own or added to salads.
- Steamed Mussels – Mussels, when steamed with butter or herbs, offer a zero-carb snack option that’s both tasty and satisfying.
- Octopus Bites (Plain) – Octopus is low-calorie, high-protein, and zero-carb. Grilled or boiled, it’s a tender and delicious snack.
Egg-based zero carb snacks
Eggs are incredibly versatile and make some of the best zero-carb snacks.
- Deviled Eggs (No Carb Ingredients) – Deviled eggs made with mustard, mayo, and spices offer a tasty, zero-carb snack that’s great for parties or meal prep.
- Fried Eggs (In Butter or Oil) – Fried eggs are simple yet satisfying. Cook them in butter or olive oil for a filling, zero-carb snack or mini-meal.
- Egg Muffins (With Cheese or Meat) – Bake eggs with cheese and meat in muffin tins for a handy, zero-carb snack you can enjoy throughout the week.
- Egg Salad (With Mayo) – Mix hard-boiled eggs with mayo for a creamy, carb-free egg salad. It’s easy to prep and perfect for a snack or light meal.
- Scrambled Eggs (With Cheese) – Scrambled eggs are a quick, easy snack that can be cooked up in minutes. Add cheese for extra flavor and creaminess.
- Boiled Eggs – Simple and nutritious, boiled eggs are a zero-carb snack that you can prepare in bulk and eat on the go.
- Poached Eggs – Poaching eggs makes them soft and tender without adding carbs, and they’re perfect for pairing with bacon or veggies.
- Egg Crepes (Made with Egg and Cream Cheese) – These zero-carb “crepes” are made by blending eggs with cream cheese, creating a soft, savory wrap you can fill with meats or cheese.
Crunchy zero carb snacks
If you’re craving crunch, these zero-carb snacks will satisfy without the carbs.
- Pork Rinds (Plain, Zero Carb) – Pork rinds are a go-to snack for keto dieters. They’re crunchy, savory, and completely free of carbs.
- Cheese Crisps (Baked Cheese) – Cheese crisps are made by baking thin slices of cheese until they’re crunchy. They’re carb-free and great for dipping or enjoying alone.
- Crispy Chicken Skin – Chicken skin, when baked or fried, becomes crispy and delicious. It’s a zero-carb snack that’s full of flavor.
- Fried Cheese Wafers – Similar to cheese crisps, these wafers are made by frying slices of cheese until crispy and golden.
- Parmesan Crisps (Homemade or Store-Bought) – Parmesan crisps are crunchy and savory, and they make the perfect alternative to crackers for keto-friendly dips.
- Fried Pork Belly – Pork belly, when fried, becomes crispy and flavorful, making it a satisfying snack with no carbs.
- Crispy Bacon Chips – Fry bacon until it’s crispy and break it into chips. It’s a crunchy snack that’s easy to prepare and completely carb-free.
- Fried Zucchini Chips (Very Low Carb) – Zucchini chips are an ultra-low-carb alternative to potato chips. Simply slice, fry, and season for a crunchy, keto-friendly snack.
- Fried Pepperoni Chips – Bake or fry pepperoni slices until crispy for a crunchy, zero-carb snack that’s salty and satisfying.
- Chicharrones – Chicharrones, or fried pork skins, are a crunchy, carb-free snack similar to pork rinds but often with a thicker, meatier texture.
Fat-based zero carb snacks
Healthy fats are essential on a keto diet, and these snacks are packed with them—without any carbs.
- Olives (Check Label for Zero Carbs) – Olives are naturally rich in healthy fats and very low in carbs. Choose varieties without added sugars for a zero-carb snack.
- Avocado Slices with Salt (Very Low Carb) – While avocado contains a small amount of carbs, its high fiber content makes it a keto-friendly, nearly zero-carb snack.
- Butter Coffee (Bulletproof Coffee) – Bulletproof coffee, made with butter and MCT oil, is a popular keto beverage that’s high in fat and free of carbs.
- Plain Guacamole (No Tomatoes) – Guacamole made without tomatoes is virtually carb-free and provides a rich source of healthy fats. Pair with pork rinds or cheese crisps for dipping.
- Whipped Cream Cheese – Cream cheese can be whipped into a fluffy, satisfying zero-carb snack that pairs well with veggies or meats.
- Avocado Mash (With Olive Oil) – Mash an avocado with a bit of olive oil and salt for a creamy, fat-filled snack. While avocado has trace carbs, its high fiber content keeps net carbs near zero.
- Herb-Infused Butter – Whip up some butter with fresh herbs for a rich, zero-carb spread. It’s perfect for melting over meats or veggies.
- Lard or Tallow (For Cooking and Snacks) – Cooking with lard or tallow adds zero carbs and can be used to fry zero-carb snacks like chicken skins or pork belly.
- MCT Oil (In Coffee or Smoothies) – MCT oil is a pure fat that’s often used in bulletproof coffee or keto smoothies. It’s a great way to add fat without carbs.
- Olive Oil Shots (With Spices) – A shot of olive oil, perhaps spiced with chili or herbs, is a quick, zero-carb way to add healthy fats to your diet.
Zero carb dips and spreads
Pair your snacks with these tasty, carb-free dips and spreads to add some extra flavor and fat.
- Ranch Dip (Zero Sugar) – Ranch dip made without added sugars is a perfect companion for veggies or pork rinds on a zero-carb diet.
- Garlic Butter Spread – Garlic butter is a rich, zero-carb spread that pairs perfectly with meats or vegetables for a delicious, savory snack.
- Cream Cheese Spread – Cream cheese can be whipped with herbs or spices for a flavorful, carb-free dip to accompany veggies or meats.
- Avocado Mayo – Avocado mayo is made from healthy fats and contains no carbs. Use it as a dip or spread for zero-carb snacks like chicken or turkey.
- Blue Cheese Dressing (Zero Carb) – Many blue cheese dressings are naturally zero-carb, making them a great dip for meats or veggies.
- Hollandaise Sauce – This buttery, creamy sauce is zero-carb and a perfect way to add richness to eggs, meats, or seafood.
- Bacon Aioli – Bacon aioli is a decadent, zero-carb dip made with bacon fat and seasonings. It pairs well with grilled meats or veggies.
- Pesto (Without Nuts) – Pesto made without nuts or sugar is a carb-free dip that’s full of flavor. Use it as a spread on meats or veggies.
- Herbed Cream Cheese – Whip cream cheese with fresh herbs for a savory, carb-free spread. It’s delicious with cold cuts or cucumber slices.
- Spicy Mustard Dip (Zero Carb) – Spicy mustard is naturally free of carbs and adds a bold kick to zero-carb snacks like deli meats or pork rinds.
Zero carb beverage snacks
Beverages can be a great way to curb hunger between meals. These zero-carb drinks help keep you hydrated and energized.
- Bone Broth (No Additives) – Bone broth is a nutrient-rich, zero-carb drink that’s high in collagen and electrolytes. Sip on it for a warming, hydrating snack.
- Electrolyte Water (Zero Sugar) – Staying hydrated on keto is essential, and zero-carb electrolyte water helps replenish lost minerals without adding sugar.
- Sparkling Water (Unflavored or Naturally Flavored) – Sparkling water is carb-free and refreshing. Opt for unflavored or naturally flavored versions with no added sugars.
- Herbal Tea (Unsweetened) – Unsweetened herbal teas are a zero-carb drink option that can help you stay hydrated and satisfied throughout the day.
- Coffee (With Cream, No Sugar) – Coffee is naturally carb-free, but adding heavy cream gives it an extra dose of fat without introducing carbs.
- Green Tea (Unsweetened) – Green tea is a zero-carb beverage that’s rich in antioxidants. Drink it plain or with a splash of cream for extra richness.
- Bulletproof Coffee – Bulletproof coffee is made by blending coffee with butter and MCT oil, creating a creamy, zero-carb drink that’s perfect for keto.
- Keto Smoothie (Made with Zero Carb Ingredients) – Blend together zero-carb ingredients like heavy cream, MCT oil, and avocado for a filling, fat-loaded keto smoothie.
- Kombucha (No Sugar Added) – Some brands of kombucha are zero-carb, as long as they don’t add sugar after fermentation. Check labels carefully.
- Coconut Milk (Full-Fat, Unsweetened) – Unsweetened coconut milk is high in healthy fats and free of carbs, making it a great addition to coffee or smoothies.
Quick grab-and-go zero carb snacks
Need a snack on the run? These zero-carb options require no prep and can be taken with you wherever you go.
- String Cheese – String cheese is a convenient, carb-free snack that’s easy to pack and eat on the go.
- Beef Jerky (Zero Sugar) – Choose zero-sugar beef jerky for a portable, protein-rich snack that won’t add carbs to your diet.
- Hard-Boiled Eggs – Boiled eggs are easy to make ahead and carry with you, providing a zero-carb protein boost when you need it most.
- Pepperoni Slices – Pre-packaged pepperoni slices are a great grab-and-go snack that’s free of carbs and high in fat.
- Pork Rinds – Pork rinds are crunchy and portable, making them an ideal zero-carb snack to keep in your bag or desk.
- Smoked Salmon Packets – Single-serve packets of smoked salmon are easy to take with you and offer a nutrient-dense, zero-carb snack option.
- Tuna Pouches – Tuna pouches are lightweight, easy to carry, and provide a quick, carb-free protein source.
- Pickles (Dill, No Sugar) – Dill pickles are zero-carb, tangy snacks that travel well and make a perfect pairing with cheese or deli meats.
- Sardine Tins – Canned sardines are packed with omega-3s and require no prep, making them a convenient zero-carb snack on the go.
- Cold Cuts (Zero Carb) – Keep cold cuts like turkey or roast beef on hand for a simple, zero-carb snack when you’re in a hurry.
FAQ
Question | Answer |
---|---|
What snack foods have no carbs? |
Many snacks have zero or close-to-zero carbs. Examples include pepperoni slices, cheese crisps, pork rinds, boiled eggs, and canned tuna. These are all high in protein or fat and are ideal for keto or low-carb diets. |
What is the healthiest low-carb snack? |
Healthy low-carb snacks include hard-boiled eggs, avocado slices, smoked salmon, and nuts. These are nutrient-dense options that keep you full without adding carbs. |
Can you eat popcorn on a no carb diet? |
No, popcorn contains carbs, so it’s not suitable for a no-carb diet. If you’re on a low-carb plan, small amounts of air-popped popcorn may be acceptable in moderation, but it’s not zero-carb. |
What foods are 100% carb-free? |
Foods that are completely carb-free include most meats (beef, chicken, turkey), fish (salmon, tuna), eggs, and certain cheeses. Oils, butter, and some nuts are also zero-carb. |
What snack is filling but not fattening? |
Boiled eggs, deli meats, and cheese are filling, nutrient-rich snacks that are not necessarily fattening, especially if you’re following a low-carb or ketogenic diet. Protein and healthy fats help keep you satisfied. |
How can I satisfy my sweet tooth on a low-carb diet? |
To satisfy a sweet tooth, try low-carb, sugar-free alternatives like stevia-sweetened chocolates or desserts made with almond flour and keto-friendly sweeteners. A spoonful of whipped cream or cream cheese mixed with berries is another popular option. |
What happens if you eat no carbs for a week? |
If you cut out carbs entirely, your body will shift to burning fat for fuel, a state called ketosis. You may initially experience side effects like fatigue or headache (sometimes referred to as the “keto flu”), but these usually pass after a few days. |
What food is filling but not carbs? |
Filling zero-carb foods include fatty meats like bacon, cheese, and eggs. These foods are high in fat and protein, which help you feel full and satisfied for longer periods. |
What are 5 foods to avoid on a low-carb diet? |
Avoid high-carb foods like bread, pasta, rice, potatoes, and sugary snacks. These foods can quickly take you out of ketosis or slow down weight loss progress on a low-carb diet. |
What has protein but no carbs? |
Examples of protein-rich, zero-carb foods include meats like chicken breast, beef, turkey, fish, and eggs. These are ideal for muscle repair and keeping you full without adding carbohydrates. |