4 High-Protein, Low-Calorie Snacks You Should Be Buying At Trader Joe’s, According To A Weight Loss Coach: Salami Sticks, More
April 12, 2025 by Mariam Qayum
Looking to lose weight without feeling hungry all the time? High-protein, low-calorie snacks are a game-changer—they help you stay full, support muscle, and keep your metabolism humming. And if you’re a Trader Joe’s fan, you’re in luck! The store is packed with smart snack options that are both satisfying and waistline-friendly. Whether you’re on the go or need a quick bite between meals, these Trader Joe’s picks can help you snack smarter and stay on track with your weight loss goals.
Trent Harrison, a weight loss coach, recently took a trip to Trader Joe’s to show us what snacks he would recommend for those on a weight loss journey. Read on to discover all the high-protein, low-calorie options he recommends.
1. Light string cheese
The high protein content in these helps promote satiety, reducing the likelihood of overeating, while the low calorie count makes it suitable for calorie-controlled diets. Additionally, the absence of carbohydrates makes it a good option for low-carb or ketogenic diets.
Its portability and convenience also makes it an easy snack to incorporate into a busy lifestyle.
“This is perfect if you need to get your kids to eat more protein or you need to eat more protein," Harrison notes.
They're 8 grams of protein for 60 calories, plus they taste “really, really good.”
2. Salame sticks
Trader Joe’s Salame Sticks can be a convenient, protein-rich snack, especially for those following low-carb or ketogenic diets.
These have 16 grams of protein for 140 calories. “This is the perfect snack to pair with the string cheese to up your protein on the go," he says.
3. Everything but the bagel seasoned smoked salmon
Trader Joe’s Everything but the Bagel Seasoned Smoked Salmon is an excellent choice for weight loss due to its high protein content and low calorie count. The high protein content helps promote satiety, reducing the likelihood of overeating, while the low calorie count makes it suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
He highlights the macros for this snack, which are 22 grams of protein for 160 calories. “Put this over an English muffin for a quick, easy afternoon snack or even breakfast," he suugests.
4. Buffalo jerky
With only 0.5g of fat per serving, this Buffalo jerky is a leaner option compared to many other jerky products. This sweet and spicy option has 8 grams of protein for 90 calories.
"If you don’t like beef jerky, try the buffalo jerky. This is the perfect combination between sweet and spicy," Harrison reveals.