Best snacks for binge watching your favorite television shows

As the fall television season begins, the pantry needs to be stocked with good show watching snacks. But what are the best snacks for binge watching?

From binge watching every episode over a weekend to eagerly anticipating the weekly installment of a favorite show, television has a loyal fan base. While being drawn into the characters’ lives and plot, hunger strikes. Snacks are must companion to every twist and turns. But, what are the best snacks for binge watching.

A recent survey found that “the average American” watches “up to 11 hours and 23 minutes” television a week. Additionally, “96% of people surveyed reported that they are likely to snack while tuning in.” While the dieticians and nutritionists may not want to know these facts, snacking and television watching seem to go hand and hand. Plus, people aren’t looking for the healthy snacks either.

(Photo by Jonathan Leibson/Getty Images for Paramount Pictures)

The same survey found these snack/show pairings as peoples’ favorite combinations.

"• Popcorn rated the top snack to pair with nail-biting fantasy shows like HBO’s “Game of Thrones” and “Westworld”• Popcorn also wins the vote for fans of the quick-witted HBO political satire, “Veep”• Ice cream pairs best with NBC’s emotionally rich series “This Is Us”• Fans of reality TV series like ABC’s “The Bachelor,” “The Bachelorette” and “Dancing with the Stars” most often reach for chips• Chips are also the top choice for men catching up on binge-worthy Netflix series such as “Stranger Things” and “Orange Is the New Black”, but women watchers are reaching for popcorn.• Chips are the choice for fans of Olivia Pope and ABC’s “Scandal”"

Overall, these findings show that chips and popcorn are the top snacking choices. These options make sense. The crunchy qualities of popcorn and chips are satisfying. A salty flavor makes people crave more and more. If you’re like me, that bag of chips or popcorn can be gone during an hour television show.

While this survey shows the majority of peoples’ preferences, a few alternative snack suggestions should be considered. Chips and popcorn are great, but I think that a few other choices make for better pairings.

FoodSided’s best snacks for binge watching your favorite television shows are:

Nail-biting fantasy: Classic potato chips

Everyone has a favorite potato chip. From the classic Lays chips to super crunchy kettle chips, chips are a favorite snack. It can be almost impossible to eat just one chip, or even a small portion of chips. Classic potato chips are perfect for a show like Game of Thrones because the chips are normal. In the unrealistic fantasy world, the snack ties viewers to reality. Plus, you can bury your head in the empty bag when the big spoiler makes you want to cry.

(Photo by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)

Political satire/dramedy: Oreos

Sometimes when comedy gets too close to reality, everyone could use a little diversion. Oreos are popular with so many people. From classic to double stuff or even those new crazy flavor combinations offer a sense of comfort when life gets too overwhelming. When that political comedy seems like a real news show, grab a bag of Oreos, milk optional, and take a big bite. Maybe life will get better at the end of 60 minutes.

(Photo Illustration by Scott Olson/Getty Images)

“This Is Us” or other tear inducing drama: Chocolate

While ice cream has been known to make people feel better, chocolate can make almost anyone smile. From the classic Hershey bar to the bag of M&Ms, chocolate can increase the happy. While ice cream is a great snack, chocolate pairs better with wine. Sorry, we need a glass of wine with This Is Us, so chocolate is our choice for the 60 minute cry fest.

Reality television: chicharrones

Since reality television is rarely real, why not chose a non-typical snack. Chicharrones are fried pork rinds or fried pork belly. More and more people are discovering chicharrones because these snacks are often paleo friendly and gluten free. While no snack is ever perfect, these snacks can be a better choice.

Best snacks for binge watching television, 4505 Chicharrones, photo by Cristine Struble

4505 Chicharrones are some of the best all natural pork rinds in the market. The company makes sustainable and delicious chicharrones. Available in three flavors, these fried pork rinds are light, airy and super crispy. From classic with chili and salt to spicy jalapeno and cheddar, you’ll find these snacks more believable than the next reality television twist.

Binge-worthy Netflix series like “Stanger Things” or “Orange is the New Black”: Cheetos

The neon orange fingers are a sign that you’ve eaten one too many of these addictive snacks. Cheetos are many people’s favorite snacks. There was even a pop-up Cheetos restaurant dedicated to the snack food. Whether you enjoy the classic, crunchy Cheetos or a new, bold flavored version, just keep a napkin close by to wipe up those orange stained fingers.

Cheese and charcuterie, photo by Cristine Struble

“Scandal” and other Shondland productions: Cheese and crackers or charcuterie tray

Olivia Pope loves her red wine. What pairs better with a glass of wine than cheese and charcuterie? While sliced American is great for a sandwich, consider a creamy smoked gouda or a pungent blue cheese to savory while Olivia conquerors the next Washington DC political scandal. This slightly elevated snack can make any fan feel a little like someone who wears a white hat.

Do you agree with FoodSided’s best snacks for binge watching? What are you snacking on? Share your thoughts below or on social media by tagging #FoodSided.