SnackWell's was an American brand of foods that was introduced in 1992. Its products used to include fat-free cookies of a variety of flavors including creme, shortbread, and devil's food cake. Previously a Nabisco brand, it was later sold to Back to Nature Foods. In 2022, the SnackWell's brand was retired.[1]
History
Under Nabisco
SnackWell's products were marketed as fat-free and thus healthier snacks, as the U.S. dietary guidelines of the early 1990s advocated a reduction in the consumption of fats. In an ironic and unintended consequence, SnackWell's products were an example of foods that had a higher carbohydrate count and were later cited as a likely contributor to the obesity epidemic of the 1990s and beyond.[2]
The Snackwell Effect was named for the tendency to consume greater quantities of an item or service deemed morally superior, such as a putatively healthier cookie, or more energy-efficient lighting.
SnackWell's branded products were made by Back to Nature Foods in Naples, Florida. In Canada, SnackWell's potato chips and crackers were available.[citation needed]
In August 2017, it was reported that B&G Foods Inc. had agreed to buy SnackWells cookies and Back to Nature granola for $162.5 million. As of May 2019, SnackWells Devil's Food Cookie Cakes were no longer "fat free" as they contained 3 grams of fat per serving and they were advertised as having an improved formula.[4]
