We went to Orlando the end of August and because we were concerned about getting stuck in the hotel room during Hurricane Dorian, we took cheese (vacuum sealed), crackers (box sealed), granola bars, nuts (sealed can), and K-cup coffee pods - all packed in my luggage, not carry on. I carefully read what was stated on the machine and since it said "food" I selected Yes (and told DH to do the same since I distributed food between two suitcases). When I handed the receipt in, I was asked what I was bringing, told him noting that they were sealed - and he just waved me through. Did the same on the way back and was also waved through again. When we first got our Nexus cards years ago we were told to even declare a chocolate bar even if you got it on the plane so I was uber careful. They were so unconcerned about what I was bringing through it's really not worth the risk by trying to hide it. Just be honest and make sure you've done your homework ahead of time to make sure you're allowed to bring it through. And, yes, coffee counts as food.
We were also bringing several external iPhone batteries with us. When going through security, my bag was pulled aside and I was asked if the "block" showing on the screen was an external battery pack. I said yes and he had me open it and show him. Took an extra 2-3 minutes in total. Given that the security screening lines are so short for Nexus holders (and you don't even have to take off your shoes, light jackets, belts, or take out tablets), it's barely a blip in your time. I think it was just where it was in the bag that it showed up as odd. DH had 2-3 batteries in his bag but wasn't pulled aside. Or it's just a random check. There's no prohibition about bringing them, but you may get asked to show it if it looks odd or suspicious.