Singaporeans have a long-standing love affair with Taiwan—from its bustling night markets to breathtaking landscapes. But above all, Taiwan’s mouth-watering snacks hold a special place in our hearts. While most of us are familiar with staples like pineapple cakes and sun biscuits, there’s a whole universe of Taiwanese snacks that haven’t quite hit the mainstream radar yet. As a well-traveled Singaporean, you’re likely already in-the-know about Taiwan’s offerings. So let’s skip the usual suspects and dive into some lesser-known snacks that are bound to tantalize your taste buds and make perfect Taiwan souvenirs for your friends and family back home.
Full Disclosure: I’m a Singaporean living in Taiwan with my Taiwanese husband and two little ones. Together, we created Hearties, a gluten-free snack brand designed to share Taiwan’s best snacks with heartfelt stories.
Why Look Beyond the Usual Taiwanese Snacks?
Taiwan’s snack scene is constantly evolving, with innovative flavors and trendy collaborations popping up frequently. You’ve probably noticed the buzz on social media about convenience stores partnering with influencers and Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs) to launch limited-edition products. These seasonal items often become the talk of the town, making them a must-try for anyone visiting Taiwan.
And the best part? You don’t even have to travel to Taiwan to enjoy these snacks! With fast shipping services, you can now order these treats online and have them delivered to your doorstep in just three days. Now, let’s explore some unique Taiwanese snacks you need to try—and possibly gift to your loved ones.
Source: whysodelicious website
手作餅乾 (Handmade Cookies) – Freshly Baked Goodness
Handmade cookies from Taiwanese brands like WA Cookies and 拿麼好吃 (created by millennial YouTubers) are crafted with high-quality ingredients and feature distinct Taiwanese flavors. These artisanal cookies are not just delicious but also make thoughtful Taiwanese souvenirs.
Where to Buy: WA Cookies and 拿麼好吃 official websites
Storage: Keeps fresh for up to 30 days.
Source: ayufoods website
蔴粩 (Mochi-Crisp) – A Unique Crunchy Treat
While mochi is popular in both Taiwan and Singapore, Mochi-Crisp is a delightful twist that combines the chewy texture of traditional mochi with a satisfying crunch. It’s a unique treat you won’t want to miss.
Where to Buy: 麻姥姥手工餅舖, 福隆粩, 裕昌麻荖, 阿玉蔴粩 official websites
Storage: Can be kept up to 30 days.
Source: Hearties website
茶香零食 (Tea-Flavoured Snacks) – Steeped in Flavour
For tea lovers, don’t miss out our very own Hearties Real Tea Popcorn and Bobalicious Bubble Tea Packs. Hearties’ popcorn is crafted with whole-leaf tea powder, offering a bold tea flavor with 25% less sugar and no additives, making it a healthier yet flavorful treat. On the other hand, Bobalicious provides convenient, ready-to-drink bubble tea packs that can be stored at room temperature, perfect for those craving an instant bubble tea fix.
Where to Buy: Hearties Real Tea Popcorn and Bobalicious official websites
Storage: Can be kept up to 1 year.
Source: pinky.ladyflavor website
低卡果凍 (Low-Calorie Jelly) – Guilt-Free Indulgence
For those looking to indulge without the calories, low-calorie jelly from brands like Pinky Lady Flavor (another millennial YouTuber brand) and MaRu MaRu is the way to go. Light, refreshing, and available in fruity flavors, these jellies are perfect for Singapore’s tropical climate.
Where to Buy: Pinky Lady Flavor and MaRu MaRu official websites
Storage: Lasts up to 18 months.
Source: jamestaste website
乾拌料理 (Dry Mix Meals) – A Taste of Taiwan at Home
For foodies who enjoy cooking, these dry mix meals from brands like 姆士流 (James Lifestyles) and 水水灶咖 deliver a quick taste of Taiwan at home. Both brands were created by famous YouTubers and have gained popularity for their ease of use and authentic flavours.
Where to Buy: 姆士流 (James Lifestyles), 水水灶咖, 香料共和國 official websites
Storage: Keeps fresh up to 12 months.
Source: goodpuffedgrains website
爆米香 (Puffed Rice Snacks) – Light and Addictive
Puffed Rice Snacks, or 爆米香, are a nostalgic snack that has been revamped with modern flavours. Light, airy, and just the right amount of sweet, these snacks are perfect for munching on while binge-watching your favorite shows. They’re a simple pleasure, yet so satisfying.
Where to Buy: 週二食記 and 穀點派 official websites
Storage: Keeps fresh for up to 180 days.
Source: freemart website
鱈魚/魷魚絲 (Roasted Fish/Squid Strips)
If you enjoy savoury snacks with a hint of ocean flavor, roasted fish or squid strips are a Taiwanese favourite. Their salty, chewy texture makes them ideal for snacking during a movie night.
Where to Buy: Oh海魷超涮嘴手撕大魷魚, 金門手撕魷魚條 on Shopee
Storage: Lasts up to 3 months.
Source: https://travel.yam.com/article/126551
肉乾/肉鬆 (Jerky and Floss)
Meat jerkies and meat floss are staples in Taiwan. If you’re looking for vegetarian options, check out 富貴香素食 for delicious meatless varieties. Both are perfect as snacks or meal accompaniments.
Where to Buy: KAWA 肉鬆, 黃金香, 軒記台灣肉乾王 official websites and 富貴香素食 (for vegetarian options)
Storage: Keeps fresh up to 240 days.
Source: https://www.eatout.com.tw/snack
高蛋白零食 (High-Protein Snacks)
Homegrown brands like Spark Protein and Go Power offer high-protein snacks perfect for gym-goers or those on a protein-rich diet. For vegans, tempeh snacks from 翔鶴佳 are an excellent plant-based option.
Where to Buy: 翔鶴佳, Spark Protein and Go Power official websites
Storage: Keeps fresh up to 18 months.
Final Thoughts
While Taiwan has no shortage of famous snacks, there’s a whole world of less-known, equally delicious treats waiting to be discovered. As a seasoned traveler and snack enthusiast, you owe it to yourself to explore these hidden gems and maybe even introduce them to your fellow Singaporeans. So go ahead, skip the queues, plan your orders online, and enjoy the best Taiwan has to offer. Happy snacking!