SnacksEasyFlare-Friendly

Saltine Crackers with Mild Cheese

Bland, soothing, and reliably gentle when nothing else sounds safe. Six saltines with mild cheddar deliver zero fiber and 8g protein—the default flare snack that won't betray you.

Saltine Crackers with Mild Cheese
Total Time
2m
Servings
1
Calories
195
Fiber
0g
Protein
8g
Carbs
15g
Fat
12g
Best ForSafe for Crohn's & UC
Active FlareRecoveringRemissionStricturePost-Op (Early)Post-Op (Late)J-Pouch

Watch Out For

saltine crackersmild

Wheat fructans present, though minimal in refined crackers

Tip: Use rice crackers or certified gluten-free saltines for FODMAP and celiac safety

mild cheddar cheesemild

Dairy fat may trigger sensitivity in some, though lactose is minimal

Tip: Choose extra-sharp aged cheddar (18+ months) for near-zero lactose, or use lactose-free cheese

honeymoderate

High fructose content can trigger FODMAP symptoms

Tip: Omit entirely if FODMAP-sensitive - recipe works without it

Ingredients

  • Moderate FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP
  • Moderate FODMAP

Instructions

  1. Arrange the 6 saltine crackers on a clean plate.

    Equipment: plate
  2. Top each cracker with a thin slice of cheese, or cut the cheese into small cubes and serve alongside for easy pairing.

  3. Drizzle with honey if desired for a sweet-savory contrast that adds gentle calories.

  4. Serve immediately, or warm in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to slightly soften the cheese.

    Tip: Warming makes the cheese slightly more digestible for some people

Notes

Storage

Eat immediately for best texture. Crackers will soften if assembled ahead. Store crackers in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Cheese keeps refrigerated for 7-10 days after opening.

Cheese selection

Mild cheddar aged 2-3 months has about 0.1g lactose per ounce. For even lower lactose, choose extra-sharp cheddar aged 18+ months, which has virtually no lactose. Colby and Swiss are also well-tolerated.

Gluten-free option

Use rice crackers or certified gluten-free saltines to avoid wheat fructans. This makes the recipe more FODMAP-friendly and suitable for celiac disease.

Protein boost

Add 2-3 slices of plain deli turkey or chicken for another 10g protein without adding fiber. Avoid flavored deli meat with garlic or onion.

Scaling

This is a single-serving snack providing 195 calories and 8g protein. Double or triple for a light lunch, or serve alongside bone broth for a complete flare meal.

IBD Considerations

Diet Protocol Compliance

How this recipe fits common IBD dietary approaches