Næra Icelandic Snacks, based in Reykjavík, Iceland, is a pioneering producer of innovative, high-protein snacks crafted from Iceland’s most iconic ingredients—cheese, skyr, and fish. Operated by Responsible Foods ehf., the company is redefining the global snack industry with its commitment to clean labels, sustainability, and nutrient-dense functional foods. The brand “Næra,” derived from the Icelandic word for “nourish,” reflects the company’s mission to provide smart, delicious snacking options that prioritize health, quality, and environmental responsibility.
Core Business and Product Offering
Næra specializes in creating crunchy, air-dried snack products that are gluten-free, keto-friendly, and free from artificial additives. Their product portfolio includes:
Cheese Snacks
- Power Protein Crunch Sour Cream & Onion Cheese Snack
- Premium Aged Cheese Crunch Garlic & Herb
- Very Gouda Crunch Cheese Snack
- Very Gouda Crunch Jalapeño Cheese Snack
Skyr Snacks
- Strawberry Crunch Skyr Snack
Made from authentic Icelandic skyr, high in protein and naturally rich in probiotics.
Fish Bites
- Wasabi Salmon Crunchy Fish Bites
- Ranch Salmon with Sour Cream & Onion Crunchy Fish Bites
- Jalapeño Salmon Crunchy Fish Bites
- Cheesy Herb Haddock with Garlic Crunchy Fish Bites
- Nacho Cheese Haddock with Jalapeño Crunchy Fish Bites
Each snack is air-dried using proprietary low-temperature drying technology that preserves nutrients, flavor, and texture without frying or chemical preservatives.
Specialization and Unique Strengths
- Ingredient Integrity: Sourced exclusively from Icelandic dairy farms and sustainable fisheries, their raw materials are traceable, hormone-free, and sustainably harvested.
- Innovative Technology: Patented low-heat drying process retains up to 90% of nutrients while ensuring crunchiness and shelf stability.
- Functional Nutrition: Products are high in protein (up to 55% protein per serving), low-carb, and suitable for keto and paleo diets.
Market Presence and Export Reach
Though a relatively new entrant, Næra has quickly expanded its presence in the global healthy snack sector:
- Export Markets: United States, Germany, UK, Netherlands, Switzerland, and select Asian markets
- Retail Presence: Sold in premium health food stores, organic markets, airport retail outlets, and e-commerce platforms
- Strategic Partnerships: Participates in Nordic food innovation programs and EU-backed sustainable food initiatives
The company’s focus on clean-label, Icelandic-heritage snacks has earned it a strong reputation among international buyers seeking premium, protein-rich alternatives.
Target Market
Næra serves health-conscious consumers and specialty retailers:
- Fitness and wellness consumers seeking high-protein, low-carb options
- Outdoor and active lifestyle communities who need nutrient-dense, lightweight snacks
- Travel retail buyers for airport, airline, and hotel minibar channels
- Natural and organic grocery buyers focusing on clean-label and Nordic products
Operational Capabilities
- Facility Location: Production takes place in a modern HACCP-certified facility in Reykjavík
- Production Capacity: Scalable line capable of producing both private label and branded products
- R&D Investment: Strong focus on continuous innovation in dairy and marine-based snacking formats
Certifications and Compliance
- HACCP Certified Production
- IFS Food Certification (in progress/targeted)
- EU Export Approved
- Keto Friendly, Gluten-Free, and High-Protein Certified labeling on all products
- Complies with Iceland Responsible Fisheries (IRF) standards for marine-based ingredients
Customer Feedback and Recognition
“The Cheesy Herb Haddock snack is a unique combination of gourmet flavor and sustainable sourcing. A hit among our customers.”
– Buyer, Specialty Organic Store, Germany
“As a sports nutritionist, I recommend Næra’s protein fish bites for clients looking for clean marine protein that’s easy to carry and delicious.”
– Nutrition Consultant, UK
Industry Recognition and Innovation
- Finalist at the Nordic Food Innovation Awards
- Showcased at SIAL Paris, BioFach, and ISM Cologne
- Selected for EU EIT Food Accelerator Network (FAN) for sustainable food startups
- Partnered with Iceland Ocean Cluster to promote circular seafood economy
With a clear mission rooted in nourishment, innovation, and environmental stewardship, Næra Icelandic Snacks is emerging as a category disruptor in high-protein functional snacking. Leveraging Iceland’s pristine ingredients and scientific precision, the company delivers a globally relevant snack solution tailored to modern health and sustainability demands.
