Saturday, 1 August 2015

Review of 'Kashi' GOLEAN Vanilla Graham Clusters

Kashi' GOLEAN Vanilla Graham Clusters
Overall rating: 3.5/5
Summary: this is a very filling cereal. There's nice complexity in textures and it's perfectly sweetened, especially the clusters. I prefer many of my cereals softened in milk before eating...this is one of those cereal. I really didn't get the vanilla flavour like I anticipated. That was disappointing. It's also made with honey, so it's not vegan. I wouldn't buy this again because the soy is not organic. Organic soy is less likely to contribute to deforestation.

Where to buy: Fortinos, Shopper's Drug Mart

Get up close and personal with Kashi® GOLEAN® Vanilla Graham ClustersPackage shot for Kashi® GOLEAN® Vanilla Graham Clusters

Ingredients: Kashi Seven Whole Grain Honey Puff Cereal (Hard Red Wheat, Brown Rice, Honey, Cane Syrup, Barley, Triticale, Oats, Rye, Buckwheat, Sesame Seeds), Degerminated Yellow Corn Flour, Expeller Pressed Soy Grits, Ground Degerminated Corn, Cane Syrup, Expeller Pressed Soy Protein Isolate, Oat Fiber, Wheat Bran, Rolled Oats, Dried Cane Syrup, Expeller Pressed Soy Flour, Corn Bran, Kashi Seven Whole Grains & Sesame Flour (Whole: Oats, Hard Red Wheat, Rye, Brown Rice, Triticale, Barley, Buckwheat, Sesame Seeds), Brown Rice Flour, Natural Flavors, Honey, Brown Rice Syrup, Salt, Molasses, Baking Soda, Vitamin E (Mixed Tocopherols) For Freshness, Annatto Extract Color.

Nutrition Facts
Serving size: 1 cup
Calories: 170
     Calories from fat: 15
Total fat: 2g
     Saturated fat: 0g
     Trans fat: 0g
     Polyunsaturated fat: 1g
     Monounsaturated fat: 0g
Sodium: 110mg
Potassium: 270mg
Total carbohydrate: 36g
     Fiber: 9g
          Soluble fiber: 0g
          Insoluble fiber: 9g
     Sugar: 9g
Protein: 10g
Calcium: 2%
Iron: 10%

The nutritional profile is solid, with lots of fiber and protein and very low calorie and fat. Add milk to this, and you've got a really solid morning meal.

Other Kashi GOLEAN cereals:
Brand:
  • "Nine of our foods are now officially Non-GMO Project Verified including Autumn Wheat, Cinnamon Harvest, Island Vanilla, Strawberry Fields, 7 Whole Grain Flakes, 7 Whole Grain Puffs, 7 Whole Grain Pilaf, Simply Maize and Indigo Morning." (kashi.com)
  • Phasing out GMOs: "That's why today Kashi announced a big initiative to increase the company's availability of organic and Non-GMO Project Verified foods. By the end of 2014, all existing Kashi® GOLEAN® cereals and Kashi® Chewy Granola Bars—representing Kashi's biggest offerings—will be Non-GMO Project Verified. Beginning in 2015, all new Kashi foods introduced into the market will contain at least 70 percent organic ingredients and will also be Non-GMO Project Verified" (read article here).
  • "The soy in Kashi cereals comes from soybeans that have had a gene inserted to protect the soybeans from the herbicide Roundup, which kills, weeds," according to USA Today (read article here).
  • Kellogg, which owns Kashi, contributed $600 000 against the non-GMO proposition 37 (read the Huffington Post article here)

Wednesday, 15 July 2015

Review of Newman's Own Mango Salsa

Newman's Own -- Mango Salsa (vegan)
Overall rating: 2.5/5
Summary: Aw man...I'm really impressed with this brand and it's commitment to giving back to communities and its commitment to natural products. So...I am sad to say that this particular flavour did not sit well with me. It was way too sweet...like overwhelmingly so. I will try the hot salsa varieties instead, with no sugar added. For me, salsa is sweet and tart. If you've got a sweet tooth for salsa, this may be for you. I should add that my best friend tried it and loved it instantly!

Where to buy: Fortino's, Loblaws, online store

Mango Salsa
Ingredients: Diced Tomatoes, Tomato Puree (Water, Tomato Paste), Diced Mangoes (Mangoes, Cane Sugar, Water, Pectin, Natural Flavors, Lemon Juice Concentrate, Ascorbic Acid), Brown Sugar (Cane Sugar, Molasses), Jalapeno Peppers, Red Bell Peppers, Onions*, Salt, Distilled Vinegar, Lime Juice Concentrate, Natural Flavor, Cilantro*, Citric Acid

*Dried

Nutrition Facts
Serving size: 2 tbsp
Calories: 25
     Calories from fat: 0g
Total fat: 0g
     Saturated fat: 0g
     Trans far: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 200mg
Total carbohydrates: 6g
     Dietary fiber: <1g
Sugars: 5g
Protein: 0g
Vitamin A: 4%
Calcium: 2%
Iron: 2%

Nice ingredients...natural and simple. The nutrition facts...nothing spectacular...25 calories, but pretty high in sodium.

Check out their recipe for Pan Seared Cod with Mango Salsa here.

Check out the Newman's Own Foundation website here.

Other Newman's Own salsa flavours:


Brand:

  • Donated over $400 million worldwide since 1992
  • Since 2003, Newman’s Own has been the exclusive salad dressing served with McDonald's Premium Salads nationwide 
  • Newman’s Own donates to the SeriousFun Children’s Network 

Saturday, 4 July 2015

Review of 'Roland' All Natural Couscous (pre-cooked)

Roland -- All Natural Couscous (pre-cooked)
Overall Rating: 3.5/5
Summary: this is a versatile product. It's very quick to prepare...a few minutes and you're good to go. I cooked it with smoky eggplant and onions and folded it into each other and it was pretty good. What I don't like is that it is not organic and that the brand does not seem to take any positions on social or environmental sustainability (e.g. does not feature any info on ingredients and where/how it's sourced). I will look for an alternate brand that can deliver on these things.

Where to buy: buy online

Image 1

Ingredients: durum wheat semolina.

Nutrition Facts
Serving size: 1/3 cup dry mix
Calories: 200
     Calories from fat: 10
Total fat: 1g
     Saturated fat: 0g
     Trans fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 1mg
Total carbohydrate: 42g
     Dietary fiber: 3g
     Sugars: 1g
Protein: 6g
Iron: 4%

Cannot complain about the ingredient list...only one simple, wholesome ingredient! The nutritional profile is great...for 200 calories, you'll get 3g fiber and 6g protein. Add your veggies and meat/meat substitute, and you've got more fiber, protein, and your vitamins/minerals...a wholesome meal.

Other Roland couscous products (all vegan):
Brand:
  • Kosher
  • Product recall (2014) for possible glass in products (read here)
  • No significant and concrete social responsibility initiatives

Review of 'Nature's Path' Envirokids Leapin' Lemurs (Peanut Butter and Chocolate)

Nature's Path -- Envirokids Leapin' Lemurs (Peanut Butter and Chocolate) (vegan, gluten-free)
Overall Rating: 3.5/5
Summary: super crunchy, but I didn't get as much peanut butter flavour as I expected. Further, it's not so filling, so can't carry me through the morning. There's only 2g of fiber and 2g of protein, so that may be why. For kids though...yeah maybe. I used this as a road trip snack...definitely not a meal. Check out the brand info below...Nature's Path delivers quality ingredients and their sustainability ethic is wonderful.

Where to buy: Bulk, Barn, Longos, Fortinos, US product locator



Ingredients: Corn meal*, whole grain corn meal*, cane sugar*, peanut butter*, molasses*, fair trade cocoa*, sea salt, soy oil*, natural flavor, tocopherols (vitamin E), tapioca starch*.

*Organic. Contains peanuts and soy. Produced in a facility that uses tree nuts.

Nutrition Facts
Serving size: 3/4 cup
Calories: 120
     Calories from fat: 15
Total fat: 1.5g
     Saturated fat: 1.5g
     Trans fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 115mg
Potassium: 55mg
Total carbohydrates: 22g
     Dietary fiber: 2g
     Sugars: 8g
Protein: 2g
Iron: 2%

Very low-calorie, so can't complain...if you double up to 240 calories, you could probably make a filling meal out of it (for an adult), with 4g fiber and 4g protein...some milk...voila!

Other gluten-free cold cereals (all vegan):

Brand (quoted from the Nature's Path website):
  • Family-owned and operated
  •  Certified non-GMO and organic; non-GMO Project verified
  • Fairtrade certified
  • "We source all our ingredients as locally as possible to our production plants."
  • "...over 78% of the weight of ingredients we purchase comes from organic farmers in North America."
  • "Some of the ingredients we have committed to purchasing are Fairtrade Certified cocoa, sugar cane, molasses, and spices." 
  • Gardens for Good Project

Review of 'The Tea Room' Dark Chocolate Bar Infused with Red Raspberry Rooibos

The Tea Room -- 60% Dark Chocolate Bar Infused with Red Raspberry Rooibos (vegan)
Overall Rating: 4/5
Summary: dark chocolate that's so rich and cocoa-y...you can actually taste the subtle tea and raspberry flavours and the pairing is exquisite. I love that the website is so exhaustive...there's info on ingredients, brand, where to buy, but they need info on nutritional profiles for all products. I recommend this bar.

Where to buy: Bulk Barn, in the US



Ingredients: Unsweetened organic chocolate, organic cane sugar, organic cacao fat, organic red raspberry rooibos tea, organic vanilla extract.

Soy Lecithin added as emulsifier. May contain traces of peanuts, soy, gluten, wheat and/or other nuts and spices.

Nutrition Facts:
Serving size: 25.5g (half the bar)
Calories: 140
     Fat. Cal.: 80
Total fat: 9g
     Sat. Fat: 5g
     Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 40mg
Total Carb.: 14g
     Dietary fiber: 2g
     Sugars: 10g
Protein: 1g
Iron: 15%

So, the ingredients are clearly wonderfully simple and kinda sexy...I swear, just read it! The chocolate is hand-crafted in San Leandro, California using organic European chocolate and other organic ingredients from around the world. The calorie count is quite good for half a bar and it's low in sodium, with 15% iron. Not bad at all.

Other Organic Chocolate Bar Infusions, Non-GMO:


Check out their recipes here.

Brand:

Review of 'Clif Bar' Sierra Mix

Clif Bar -- Sierra Mix (vegan)
Overall Rating: 4/5
Summary: mmmmm, filling, very soft, moist, and sweet (especially the raisins), nice and chewy...but! ...missing enough nuts/seeds. The ingredients are mostly good, but the non-organic soy is the biggest issue...if one ingredient should have been organic, it should have been the soy. The nutritional profile is pretty good, with lots of fiber (5g) and protein (10g) and packed with vitamins and minerals, typical of most Clif bars. I'd buy this again.

Where to buy: Fortino's



Ingredients: Organic Brown Rice Syrup, ClifPro® (Soy Rice Crisps [Soy Protein Isolate, Rice Flour, Barley Malt Extract], Organic Roasted Soybeans, Organic Soy Flour), Organic Rolled Oats, Organic Peanuts, Chocolate Chips (Dried Cane Syrup, Unsweetened Chocolate‡, Cocoa Butter‡, Soy Lecithin, Vanilla Extract), Organic Raisins, Organic Cane Syrup, Organic Peanut Butter (Organic Peanuts, Salt), ClifCrunch® (Organic Oat Fiber, Inulin, Organic Psyllium), Roasted Pumpkin Seeds, Roasted Sunflower Seeds (Sunflower Seeds, Sunflower Oil), Organic Date Paste, Sea Salt, Natural Flavors, Natural Vitamin E (Antioxidant).

ALLERGEN STATEMENT: CONTAINS SOY AND PEANUTS. MAY CONTAIN TRACES OF MILK, WHEAT, AND TREE NUTS.

Nutrition Facts
Serving size: 1 bar
Calories: 250
     Calories from fat: 70
Total fat: 8g
     Sat. fat: 2g
     Trans fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 230mg
Potassium: 260mg
Total carb.: 40g
     Dietary fiber: 5g
          Insoluble fiber: 3g
     Sugars: 22g
     Other carbs.: 13g
Protein: 10g
Vit. A: 30%
Vit. C: 90%
Calcium: 25%
Iron: 10%

Other Clif Bar flavours (all vegan, baby):
Brand:

Review of 'Casbah' Couscous (Nutted with Currants and Spice)

Casbah -- Couscous (Nutted with Currants and Spice) (vegan)
Overall Rating -- 3/5
Summary: love the simple, clean ingredients and good nutritional profile. However, this needs more seasoning for me. I really like the nice additions of currants and nuts, but a few currants were a bit sandy in texture. This is really, really easy and quick to make, so it's a good product to keep around for lazy days. I'm disappointed in the website, which contains little information on the brand itself (e.g. where the organic couscous comes from, how it's certified, no ingredients or nutritional profile of products, etc.).

Where to buy: online



Ingredients: Organic Couscous (Semolina Wheat Flour), Nuts (Almonds, Pistachios, Pine Nuts), Currants, Salt, Granulated Onion, Yeast Extract, Expeller Pressed Canola Oil, Spices, Green Onion Flakes, Natural Flavor, Sunflower Oil.

Nutrition Facts
Serving size: 1/4 cup
Calories: 170
Fat: 2.5g
     Sat. Fat: .2g
     Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 400mg
Carbohydrates: 31g
     Fibre: 2g
     Sugars: 2g
Protein: 6g
Calcium: 2%
Iron: 4%

The ingredients are no problem at all...very good! The nutritional profile is good as well, with 2g of fiber and 6g protein...only there's a lot of sodium for only 1/4 cup.

Other Cashbah Couscous:

  • Roasted Garlic and Olive Oil
  • Wild Forest Mushroom
  • Lemon Spinach


Brand:

  • No MSG
  • 100% animal-free ingredients only
  • Both Casbah and Niles and Health Valley and Breadshop packaging print comes from soy based ink

Sunday, 28 June 2015

Review of 'Clif Builder's Bar' Chocolate Peanut Butter

Clif Builder's Bar -- Chocolate Peanut Butter (vegan)
Overall Rating: 4/5
Summary: chocolatey!...but just not enough peanut butter flavour for my liking. I love the thick chocolate coating typical of Builder's Bars and the crunchy wafer inner. It's very sweet and filling as well. The biggest downside to the nutritional profile is low fiber (only 2g). As for the ingredients, most are organic, but the one that arguably is most important, soy, is not (read about the link between soy and deforestation here).

Where to buy: Fortinos



Ingredients: Soy Protein Isolate, Beet Juice Concentrate, Organic Brown Rice Syrup, Organic Dried Cane Syrup, Palm Kernel Oil, Organic Peanuts, Cocoa‡, Organic Rolled Oats, Vegetable Glycerin, Organic Soy Protein Concentrate, Natural Flavors, Peanuts, Peanut Flour, Rice Starch, Organic Sunflower Oil, Unsweetened Chocolate‡, Inulin (Chicory Extract), Sea Salt, Organic Oat Fiber, Soy Lecithin, Calcium Carbonate, Organic Vanilla Extract, Cocoa Butter‡, Vanilla Extract, Natural Vitamin E (Antioxidant).

ALLERGEN STATEMENT: CONTAINS SOY AND PEANUTS. MAY CONTAIN TRACES OF MILK, WHEAT, AND TREE NUTS.

Nutrition Facts
Serving size: 1 bar
Calories: 280
     Calories from fat: 90
Fat: 10g
     Saturated fat: 5g
     Trans: 0g
Cholesterol: 0g
Sodium: 270mg
Potassium: 190mg
Total carb: 29g
     Dietary fiber: 2g
     Insoluble fiber: 1g
     Sugars: 21g
Protein: 20g
Vitamin A: 30%
Vitamin C: 50%
Calcium: 30%

Full nutritional profile available here.

Pretty good ingredients list, except for the non-organic soy. The nutritional profile is quite good; there's a ton of protein for 280 calories, but would have been better with at least 4g of fiber for the calorie count...2g isn't cutting it.

Other Clif Builder's Bars (all vegan):
Brand:

Saturday, 30 May 2015

Review of '180 Snacks' Nutty Rice Bites (with Blueberries)

180 Snacks -- Nutty Rice Bites (with Blueberries) (vegan)
Overall Rating: 4/5
Summary: oh boy, my new obsession. This is deliciously blueberry-flavoured, it's super crunchy (seeds and nuts), light and airy, super fresh, and low-calorie! The nutritional profile isn't so impressive. It's just delicious and the ingredients are super simple and pure. The only ingredient I'd like to see differently is the palm oil; preferably sustainably-sourced palm oil (look out for science on palm oil and tropical deforestation here!

Where to buy: shop online

Nutty Rice Bites with Blueberries 1.25oz

Ingredients: Rices (crispy rice {rice, sugar, molasses, salt}, puffed brown rice, puffed white rice), Roasted Nuts and Seeds (pumpkin seeds, cashew nuts, almonds, sesame seeds), Organic Brown Rice Syrup, Cane Sugar, Zante Currants, Palm Oil, Sea Salt, Natural Flavors, Sea Salt, Guar Gum.

Nutrition Facts
Serving size: 2/3 cup
Calories: 70
     Calories: 20
Total fat: 2.5g
     Saturated fat: .5g
     Trans fat: 0g
     Polyunsaturated fat: .5g
     Monounsaturated fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 45mg
Total carb.: 13g
     Dietary fiber: 0g
     Sugars: 6g
Protein: 1g
Iron: 2%

Delicious yes, but yeah yeah only 1g of protein and no fiber. However!...there are some nice healthy fats there and it's low calorie and low sodium.

Other Nutty Rice Bites flavours:



Brand:

  • Certified Gluten-Free
  • Certified Vegan
  • 100% natural

Review of 'Clif Bar' Pecan Pie

Clif Bar -- Pecan Pie (vegan)
Overall Rating: 4/5
Summary: this was somewhat 'pecan pie' flavour, but really could have used more sugary pecan bits (which were great!). It is overall very tasty; very sweet and filling, just like most of the Clif Bars I've bought. Would be better if the soy-based ingredients were all organic, but fully appreciate that 70% of the ingredients are organic. Unfortunately, this is a seasonal flavour and really difficult to find outside of the Christmas season. Happy hunting!

Where to buy: Bulk Barn, Fortinos, Shopper's Drug Mart



Ingredients: Organic Brown Rice Syrup, ClifPro® (Soy Rice Crisps [Soy Protein Isolate, Rice Flour, Barley Malt Extract], Organic Roasted Soybeans, Organic Soy Flour), Organic Rolled Oats, Organic Pecans, Pecan Pralines (Organic Dried Cane Syrup, Pecan Pieces, Salt), Organic White Coating (Organic Dried Cane Syrup, Organic Cocoa Butter‡, Organic Soy Lecithin, Organic Vanilla Extract), Organic Cane Syrup, ClifCrunch® (Organic Oat Fiber, Inulin, Organic Psyllium), Organic Date Paste, Organic Sunflower Oil, Natural Flavors, Sea Salt, Organic Cinnamon, Natural Vitamin E (Antioxidant).

ALLERGEN STATEMENT: CONTAINS SOY AND PECANS. MAY CONTAIN TRACES OF MILK, WHEAT, AND OTHER TREE NUTS

Nutrition Facts
Serving size: 1 bar
Calories: 260
     Calories from fat: 70
Total fat: 8g
     Sat. fat: 1.5g
     Trans fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 170mg
Potassium: 170mg
Total carb.: 41g
     Dietary fiber: 4g
     Insoluble fiber: 3g
     Sugars: 21g
     Other carb.: 16g
Protein: 9g
Vit. A: 30%
Vit. C: 90%
Calcium: 25%
Iron: 10%

The nutritional information is good, with 9g protein and 4g fiber. It's low sodium and has no cholesterol and is packed with vitamins and minerals. I'd definitely buy this again.

Full nutritional profile available here.

Other Clif Bar flavours (all vegan, baby):
Brand:

Review of 'Clif Bar' Coconut Chocolate Chip

Clif Bar -- Coconut Chocolate Chip (vegan)
Overall rating: 4.5/5
Summary: this was great. Clif Bar does it again. It's super coconutty and chocolatty with a chocolate drizzle, medium-sweet and filling. I think it could have used some more chocolate chips though. The ingredients are solid and the nutritional profile is great (10g of protein, 5g of fiber, and lots of vitamins and minerals). I'd definitely buy this again.

Where to buy: Bulk Barn, Fortinos, Shopper's Drug Mart



Ingredients: Organic Brown Rice Syrup, ClifPro® (Soy Rice Crisps [Soy Protein Isolate, Rice Flour, Barley Malt Extract], Organic Roasted Soybeans, Organic Soy Flour), Organic Rolled Oats, Organic Cane Syrup, Chocolate Chips (Dried Cane Syrup, Unsweetened Chocolate‡, Cocoa Butter‡, Soy Lecithin, Vanilla Extract), ClifCrunch® (Organic Oat Fiber, Inulin [Chicory Extract], Organic Milled Flaxseed, Organic Psyllium), Organic Coconut, Organic Date Paste, Organic Sunflower Oil, Natural Flavors, Sea Salt, Natural Vitamin E (Antioxidant).

ALLERGEN STATEMENT: CONTAINS SOY AND COCONUT. MAY CONTAIN TRACES OF MILK AND WHEAT.

Nutritional Facts
Serving size: 1 bar
Calories: 240
     Calories from fat: 50
Total fat: 6g
     Sat. fat.: 2.5g
     Trans fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0g
Sodium: 180mg
Potassium: 210mg
Total carb.: 43g
     Dietary fiber: 5g
          Insoluble fiber: 3g
     Sugars: 22g
     Other carb.: 16g
Protein: 10g
Vit. A: 30%
Vit. C: 90%
Calcium: 25%
Iron: 10%

Full nutritional profile available here.

Other Clif Bar flavours (all vegan, baby):
Brand:

Saturday, 23 May 2015

Review of 'Newtons' Fruit Thins (Lemon Crisp)

Newtons -- Fruit Thins (Lemon Crisp) (vegan)
Overall Rating: 3.5/5
Summary: this definitely works. It's very lemon-y, has bits of dried fruit, is crunchy, and medium sweet. The ingredients/nutritional profile are just okay (not great but not horrid ingredients or nutritional content). Sadly, there's nothing exciting to report regarding the brand and their social/environmental initiatives.

Where to buy: product locator (US only)



Ingredients: UNBLEACHED ENRICHED FLOUR (WHEAT FLOUR, NIACIN, REDUCED IRON, THIAMINE MONONITRATE {VITAMIN B1}, RIBOFLAVIN {VITAMIN B2}, FOLIC ACID), SUGAR, WHOLE GRAIN WHEAT FLOUR, SOYBEAN OIL, ROLLED OATS, DRIED LEMON PEEL, INVERT SUGAR, SALT, NATURAL FLAVOR, BAKING SODA, SOY LECITHIN, CITRIC ACID.

Nutrition Facts
Serving size: 3 cookies
Calories: 140
     Calories from fat: 45
Total fat: 5g
     Saturated fat: 1g
     Trans fat: 0g
     Monounsaturated fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 95mg
Potassium: 55mg
Total carbohydrates: 22g
     Dietary fiber: 1g
     Sugars: 7g
Protein: 2g
Iron: 6%

Ingredients are okay...more wholesome flour would be best and organic soybean oil would be even better. The nutritional profile is also just okay...it's low-calorie and sodium per serving, but doesn't have much by way of protein and fiber.

Other Newtons Fruit Thins flavours:


Brand:

  • Part of MondelÄ“z International

Review of 'Sunkist' Fruit Gems Candy

Sunkist -- Fruit Gems (vegan)
Overall Rating: 3.5/5
Summary: mmmm, I really like these. They are perfectly soft, sweet, sticky, and chewy. The flavours are so super authentic and the ingredients and nutritional profile are way better than Skittles! I would much prefer to buy this when I'm craving candies.

Where to buy: Homesense (American Drive, Mississauga), store locator


Ingredients: SUGAR, CORN SYRUP, ACEROLA PUREE (VITAMIN C), CITRUS PECTIN, NATURAL FLAVORS, CITRIC ACID, RASPBERRY JUICE FROM RASPBERRY PUREE, LEMON JUICE FROM LEMON PUREE, GRAPEFRUIT JUICE FROM CONCENTRATE, ORANGE JUICE FROM ORANGE PUREE, BLUEBERRY JUICE FROM BLUEBERRY PUREE, SODIUM CITRATE, VEGETABLE AND FRUIT JUICE (COLOR).

Nutrition Facts
Serving size: 4 pcs
Calories: 130
    Calories from fat: 0g
Total Fat: 0g
Sodium: 0mg
Carbohydrates: 34g
     Sugars: 25g
Protein: 0g
Vitamin C: 100%

So, obviously this is a 'once in a while' snack, since it's basically all sugar. But...there are actually natural flavours and vitamin C, as opposed to Skittles, which is vegan, but has a horrible ingredient list and nutritional profile.

Other Sunkist Candies:

  • Orange slices
  • Citrus Mix


Brand:

  • All Sunkist candies are certified OU Kosher by the Orthodox Union.
  • Under Jelly Belly umbrella

Review of Skittles 'Wild Berry'

Skittles -- Wild Berry (vegan)
Overall Rating: 3/5
Summary: all are very sweet but...not all colours are very berry. For instance, the pink is so tough to pinpoint. Maybe my tastebuds aren't so great, but I can't tell the flavour. The blue is super flavourful and some of the others are quite good as well. I will probably not buy it again though...it's just not that great to sacrifice the poor nutrition (take a look at the ingredients and nutrition facts below). I do wanna try the Skittles Desserts though!

Where to buy: most grocery stores

Skittles - Wild Berry

Ingredients: Sugar, Corn Syrup, Hydrogenated Palm Kernel Oil, less than 2% of: Citric Acid, Tapioca Dextrin, Modified Corn Starch, Natural and Artificial Flavors, Colors (Titanium Dioxide, Red 40 Lake, Red 40, Yellow 5 Lake, Blue 1 Lake, Yellow 5, Blue 1, Yellow 6, Blue 2 Lake), Sodium Citrate, Carnauba Wax.

Nutrition Facts
Serving size: 1 ct
Calories: 250
Total fat: 2.5g
     Saturated fat: 2.5g
     Trans fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 20mg
Total carbohydrates: 56g
     Dietary fiber: 0g
     Sugars: 45g
Protein: 0g

Okay, no impressive ingredients here. Boo to the sugar content. Boo to the hydrogenated oil (adds trans fats), boo to artificial flavours and colours.

Other Skittles flavours:

  • Original
  • Desserts
  • Darkside
  • Sour

Brand:
  • Since 1979
  • Owned by Wrigley, acquired by Mars, Inc.
  • On Wrigley's social and environmental work here

Thursday, 7 May 2015

Review of 'Healthy Choice' Country Vegetable Soup (Microwavable Bowl)

Healthy Choice -- Country Vegetable Soup (vegan)
Overall Rating: 2.5/5
Summary: too salty (480mg per cup)...def too salty for me. The flavour is nice and the serving is actually quite filling, with a medium-thick consistency. I did find a spoonful that had something sandy, which was not fun bleh...I also found the carrots to be too soft. I wouldn't buy this product again; it really was just okay. Further, the brand itself isn't so impressive as it relates to its philosophy or social/environmental initiatives.

Where to buy: US only (online store locator)





Ingredients: Water, Tomato Puree (Water, Tomato Paste), Carrots, Celery, Corn, Potatoes, Diced Tomatoes with Juice, Green Zucchini, Kidney Beans, Peas, Green Beans, Less than 2% of: Lima Beans, Modified Corn Starch, Vegetable Juice Concentrate Blend (Carrots, Celery, Onions), Flavoring, Potassium Chloride, Sugar, Soybean Oil, Spice, Dextrose, Maltodextrin, Garlic Powder, Modified Food Starch, Citric Acid, Yeast Extract, Disodium Guanylate & Inosinate, Natural Flavor, Calcium Chloride, Oleoresin Paprika.

Nutrition facts
Serving size: 1 cup
Calories: 100
     Calories from fat: 0
Total fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 480mg
Potassium: 660mg
Total carbohydrate: 20g
     Dietary fiber: 4g
     Sugars: 4g
Protein: 4g
Vitamin A: 20%
Vitamin C: 4%
Calcium: 4%
Iron: 4%

These ingredients are pretty good, overall! The nutritional profile is also very good; it's low calorie, high in potassium, and has a nice dose of protein, fiber, and vitamin A.

Other Healthy Choice Microwavable Bowls:


Brand:

  • Absolutely nothing interesting to report.

Wednesday, 6 May 2015

Review of 'Air Heads' Strawberry Watermelon

Air Heads -- Strawberry Watermelon (vegan)
Overall rating: 3/5
Summary: it's sweet, berrylicious, and watermelony, and with an awesomely chewy, grainy texture. Unlike the other Air Heads flavours, this one actually hits you right away with the berry-watermelon flavour. And, it's actually yummy. Still, I wouldn't buy this again, since it's basically just sugar and the flavour isn't so great to warrant the indulgence ;p It has not-so-good ingredients overall (e.g. GMO ingredients, trans fats [hydrogenated ingredients], and artificial ingredients. Also, I'm not pleased at the lack of brand information.

Where to buy: Amazon



Ingredients: sugar, corn syrup, maltodextrin, dextrose, modified food starch (corn), partially hydrogenated soybean oil, contains less than 2% of: citric acid, water, artificial flavours, artificial colours, red 40, blue 1, yellow 6, yellow 5.

Nutrition Facts
Serving size: 1 bar
Calories: 140
     Calories from fat: 15
Total fat: 1.5g
     Saturated fat: 1g
     Trans fat: 0g
Sodium: 15mg
Total carbohydrates: 31g
     Sugars: 19g
Protein: 0g

No, no, no! Nothing good about either the ingredients or the nutritional profile...do not buy!

Brand:
  • USA company
  • Kosher

Review of 'Air Heads' Double Mystery

Air Heads -- Double Mystery (vegan)
Overall rating: 2.5/5
Summary: it's tangy, sweet and awesomely chewy with a sugary/grainy texture. I feel like I taste sour apple...and something else I can't quite put my finger on! I wouldn't buy this again, since it's just sugar and it ain't *that* great. It has not-so-good ingredients overall (e.g. GMO ingredients, trans fats [hydrogenated ingredients], and artificial ingredients. Also, I'm not pleased at the lack of brand information.

Where to buy: Amazon



Ingredients: sugar, corn syrup, maltodextrin, dextrose, modified food starch (corn), partially hydrogenated soybean oil, contains less than 2% of: citric acid, water, artificial flavours, artificial colours, red 40, blue 1, yellow 6, yellow 5.

Nutrition Facts
Serving size: 3 bars
Calories: 140
     Calories from fat: 15
Total fat: 1.5g
     Saturated fat: 1g
     Trans fat: 0g
Sodium: 15mg
Total carbohydrates: 31g
     Sugars: 19g
Protein: 0g

No, no, no! Nothing good about either the ingredients or the nutritional profile...do not buy!

Brand:
  • USA company
  • Kosher

Review of 'Air Heads' Blue Raspberry & Cherry

Air Heads -- Blue Raspberry & Cherry (vegan)
Overall rating: 2.5/5
Summary: it's tangy, sweet and with an awesomely chewy, grainy texture. The berry flavours hit you after the first couple of chews, which kinda seems artificial. I wouldn't buy this again, since it's basically just sugar and the flavour isn't so great to warrant the indulgence ;p It has not-so-good ingredients overall (e.g. GMO ingredients, trans fats [hydrogenated ingredients], and artificial ingredients. Also, I'm not pleased at the lack of brand information.

Where to buy: Amazon



Ingredients: sugar, corn syrup, maltodextrin, dextrose, modified food starch (corn), partially hydrogenated soybean oil, contains less than 2% of: citric acid, water, artificial flavours, artificial colours, red 40, blue 1, yellow 6, yellow 5.

Nutrition Facts
Serving size: 1 bar
Calories: 170
     Calories from fat: 10
Total fat: 2g
     Saturated fat: 1g
     Trans fat: 0g
Sodium: 20mg
Total carbohydrates: 39g
     Sugars: 23g
Protein: 0g

No, no, no! Nothing good about either the ingredients or the nutritional profile...do not buy!

Other flavours:

  • Double Mystery


Brand:
  • USA company
  • Kosher

Review of 'belVita' Crunchy Breakfast Biscuits -- Apple Cinnamon

belVita Crunchy Breakfast Biscuits -- Apple Cinnamon (vegan)
Overall rating: 4/5
Summary: well, this flavour is definitely a step up from the Golden Oat biscuits, which I rated only 2.5/5. This is much more flavourful, with chewy, dried pieces of apples, very light cinnamon, and crunchiness and freshness. I would have preferred more of a powerful cinnamon flavour.

Where to buy: Walmart, Target



Ingredients: WHOLE GRAIN WHEAT FLOUR, ENRICHED FLOUR [WHEAT FLOUR, NIACIN, REDUCED IRON, THIAMIN MONONITRATE (VITAMIN B1), RIBOFLAVIN (VITAMIN B2), FOLIC ACID], SUGAR, HIGH OLEIC CANOLA OIL, WHOLE GRAIN ROLLED OATS, WHOLE GRAIN RYE FLOUR, DRIED APPLES, BAKING SODA, DISODIUM PYROPHOSPHATE, SALT, SOY LECITHIN, DATEM, CARAMEL COLOR, CINNAMON, NATURAL FLAVOR, FERRIC ORTHOPHOSPHATE (IRON), NIACINAMIDE, PYRIDOXINE HYDROCHLORIDE (VITAMIN B6), RIBOFLAVIN (VITAMIN B2), THIAMIN MONONITRATE (VITAMIN B1).

*Contains: wheat, soy.

Nutrition Facts
Serving size: 1 pack
Calories: 230
     Calories from fat: 70
Total fat: 8g
     Sat Fat: .5g
     Trans Fat: 0g
     Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g
     Monounsaturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 170mg
Potassium: 110mg
Total Carbohydrates: 36g
     Dietary fiber: 3g
     Sugars: 13g
Protein: 3g
Iron: 10%

The ingredients aren't bad...would be better with all whole grains and non-GMO ingredients. The calories are relatively high for the limited fiber and protein count, but it does have healthy fats and is quite filling. I usually would have one package for breakfast and it keeps me going until lunch.

Other belVita crunchy flavours (all vegan):
Brand:
  • Nationwide voluntary recall by Mondelez Global LLC, East Hanover, NJ of belVita Breakfast Biscuit products, apple cinnamon and chocolate varieties. The recall was issued due to the possible presence of fragments of flexible metal mesh caused by a faulty screen at the company's facility (read here)

Review of 'Seeds of Change' Seven Whole Grains

Seeds of Change -- Seven Whole Grains (vegan)
Overall Rating: 5/5
Summary: mmm, love this and will definitely buy it again. The texture is complex, with rice, barley, bulgur, quinoa, etc.! It's also super hearty and filling, perfectly seasoned, and fresh. You need to try this if you like simple, nutritious, and delicious food. It's very delicately salted, so if you're a heavy salt user, this isn't for you.

Where to buy: US only



Ingredients: Water, Long Grain Brown Rice*, Barley*, Rye*, Bulgur*, Red Winter Wheat*, Quinoa*, Wild Rice*, High Oleic Sunflower Oil*, Tamari Powder* (Soybeans*, Salt, Rice Flour*), Evaporated Cane Juice*, Dried Onion*, Dried Red Bell Pepper*, Garlic Powder*, Tapioca Starch*, Parsley*, Chili Pepper*, Black Pepper*, Cumin*.

* = Certified Organic

Nutrition Facts
Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories:  240
     Calories from fat: 30
Total fat: 3g
     Saturated fat: 0g
     Trans fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 340mg
Potassium: 210mg
Total carbohydrate: 47g
     Dietary fiber: 4g
     Sugars: 1g
Protein: 6g
Vitamin A: 2%
Calcium: 2%
Vitamin C: 2%
Iron: 10%

So, check out those ingredients. Clearly, I can't complain. So, what about the nutritional facts? Well, it's great; high in fiber and protein, decent dose of iron, low sodium, and no cholesterol. Good to go.

Check out recipes here (e.g. Seven Grain Shrimp Bowl; Seven Grain Pilaf).

Other 'Ready to Heat' Rice (all vegan):
Brand:
  • Founded 1989
  • Contributes 1% of net sales toward sustainable organic farming initiatives worldwide
  • Use Certified Organic milk (from cows) in products
  • No GMOs
  • No MSG
  • Certified organic

Friday, 17 April 2015

Review of 'Firenza Irresistible Baking Mixes' Triple Chocolate Brownie

Firenza Irresistible Baking Mixes -- Triple Chocolate Brownie (vegan)
Overall Rating: 4/5
Summary: ahhh, love me some dark chocolate. These are chewy, moist, and dense. They're rich in flavour and nice and sweet. There are various instructions for different recipes, including one that's low-fat and uses applesauce. I used 3 eggs and 1/2 cup of butter (all sustainably sourced!) and added chopped pecans--deeelish. This is such a convenient product...takes minutes to get into the oven.

Where to buy: Homesense



Nutrition Facts
Serving size: 1/16 package
Calories: 120
Fat: 2g
     Saturated fat: 1g
     Trans fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 80mg
Carbohydrates: 25g
     Fiber: 1g
     Sugars: 18g
Protein: 1g
Iron: 1%

Ingredients: Sugar, enriched flour (wheat flour, niacin, reduced iron, thiamine mononitrate, riboflavin, folic acid), semi-sweet chocolate (sugar, unsweetened chocolate, cocoa butter, dextrose, soy lecithin - an emulsifier, vanilla), cocoa processed with alkali, vanilla, salt, leavening (sodium bicarbonate, sodium acid pyrophosphate, corn starch, monocalcium phosphate).

The nutritional profile gets a boost from addition of the eggs in terms of protein. Not great that the first ingredient is sugar (eek), but it's soooo goodddd. I probably wouldn't buy this again because it's super not the healthiest thing. But...I don't regret indulging : P

Check out recipes on the website here.

Other Firenza Dessert options (all vegan before mixing):
Brand:
  •  Nothing special to report.

Review of 'GoGo Quinoa' Quinoa Cookies (Chocolate Chip)

GoGo Quinoa -- Quinoa Cookies (Chocolate Chip) (vegan)
Overall rating: 4/5
Summary: really nice and crunchy, very present cocoa flavour, mildly sweet, and great texture with quinoa grains, seeds, and chocolate chips. I feel like it doesn't quite hit my sweet tooth; I expected a bit more sweetness in a cookie and was disappointed. So, if you don't have a big sweet tooth like me, this is your cookie.

Where to buy: Fortinos, Battaglias (Mississauga), etc.



Nutrition Facts
Serving size: 2 cookies
Calories: 160
Fat: 8g
     Saturated fat: 2.5g
     Trans: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 60mg
Carbohydrates: 20g
     Fiber: 1g
     Sugar: 8g
Protein: 2g
Calcium: 2%
Iron: 8%

Ingredients: Organic royal quinoa flour, tapioca flour, rice flour, kaniwa (baby quinoa) flour, non-hydrogenated palm fruit oil*, evaporated cane juice, dark chocolate chips (pure dark chocolate also called chocolate liquor, cane juice, natural vanilla essence), brown sugar, quinoa puffed grains, chia seeds, sodium bicarbonate, natural vanilla extract.

* From sustainable harvesting.

The nutritional profile is okay. For 160 calories, there's only 1g of fiber. I feel I can get more fiber and protein in a Luna Bar, which has similar calories and is sweeter ;) No cholesterol, low in fat, and pretty good on sugar count.

The ingredients are great, of course; organic and clean!

Other GoGo Quinoa Cookie varieties:
 Brand:
  • Certified HACCP 
  • Gluten-free
  • Certified organic by Ecocert Canada
  • Vegan

Review of 'NuGo' Double Dark Chocolate Organic Bar

NuGo -- Double Dark Chocolate Bar (vegan)
Overall Rating: 4.5/5
Summary: yep, it's good. Love the texture with soy and rice crisps, chocolate bits, with a layer of chocolate. It's not as thick as Clif bars but still pretty filling. It's very, very sweet; just like i like it! Enjoy! I'm looking forward to trying the other flavours.

Where to buy: shop online (Canada),

NuGO Organic: Double Dark Chocolate

Ingredients: Organic Crunch [organic hexane free soy crisps (organic soy protein, organic rice flour, calcium carbonate), organic brown crisp rice, organic rolled oats], Organic Chocolate (organic cane sugar, organic chocolate liquor, organic cocoa butter, organic soy lecithin, organic vanilla), Organic Tapioca Syrup, Organic Agave Syrup, Organic Isolated Soy Protein, Organic Tapioca Maltodextrin, Organic Cocoa Powder, Organic Arabic Gum, Natural Flavors.

Nutrition Facts
Serving size: 1 bar
Calories: 190
     Calories from fat: 45
Total fat: 5g
     Saturated fat: 3g
     Trans fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 65mg
Total carbohydrates: 26g
     Dietary fiber: 2g
     Sugar: 15g
Protein: 10g
Calcium: 4%
Iron: 10%

Yay, all organic! This is a great, healthy, and tasty bar. It has a great protein count for the 190 calories; a  bit more fiber would have been better. This is the perfect breakfast for me in the mornings, as I eat light in the morning and I can really use the sugar rush. It also works as a post-workout bar.

Other NuGo Organic Bars (all vegan)


Brand:
  • non-GMO ingredients
  • Gluten-free options
  • Philanthropy! 
  • NuGO Organic is certified vegan

Tuesday, 7 April 2015

Review of Milton's Original Multi-Grain Gourmet Crackers

Milton's -- Original Multi-Grain Gourmet Crackers (vegan)
Overall rating: 3.5/5
Summary: hm, well these are tasty crackers with the perfect amount of saltiness and sesame seed flavour. They're crunchy but not screaming of freshness. The ingredients and nutritional profile are pretty lacklustre so I cannot recommend this.

Where to buy: Costco, Whole Foods, Walmart


Ingredients: Enriched wheat flour (wheat flour, niacin, reduced iron, thiamin mononitrate, riboflavin, folic acid), vegetable oil (canola oil, sunflower oil, rosemary extract), grains (yellow corn grits, oats, wheat bran, ferrous sulfate), whole wheat flour, sugar, evaporated cane sugar, sesame seeds, black sesame seeds, salt, monocalcium phosphate, sodium bicarbonate, poppy seeds, soy lecithin, natural enzymes.

Contains: Soy, wheat, sesame seeds.

Nutrition Facts
Serving size: approximately 2 crackers
Calories: 70
     Calories from fat: 25
Total fat: 2.5g
     Saturated fat: 0g
     Trans fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 105mg
Total carbohydrate: 10g
     Dietary fiber: 0
     Sugars: 1g
Protein: 1g
Calcium: 2%
Iron: 4%

Eh, first ingredient is enriched wheat flour, so not a big fan already. None of the ingredients are organic. And the nutritional profile is also lame...even if you have 4 crackers, you're not getting even 1g of fiber and only 2g of protein. This is just not enough for me. I had these with peanut butter and it worked nicely. But, sometimes I just wanna have crackers! And I wanna know I'll get at least 1g of fiber!

Other 'Gourmet Crackers':
Brand:
  • Absolutely nothing special to report.

Saturday, 21 March 2015

Review of belVita Crunchy Breakfast Biscuits -- Golden Oat

belVita Crunchy Breakfast Biscuits -- Golden Oat (vegan)
Overall rating: 2.5/5
Summary: oaty indeed. Very sweet. But...plain boring to me. It is crunchy and very fresh like the other Crunchy Breakfast Biscuits, but without the uniqueness of the Blueberry, Chocolate, and Cinnamon Brown Sugar (reviews below). They should have added raisins or nuts to spice it up. The nutritional profile is okay, though the calories are a bit high for something that doesn't taste *that* great, sugars are high, and there's enriched flour. Try the Blueberry flavour or Cinnamon Brown Sugar...way better!

Where to buy: Walmart, Target



Ingredients: Whole Grain Wheat Flour, enriched Flour [Wheat Flour, Niacin, Reduced Iron, Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B1), Riboflavin (Vitamin B2), Folic Acid], Sugar, High Oleic Canola Oil, Whole Grain Rolled Oats, Whole Grain Rye Flour, Dried Apples, Baking Soda, Disodium Pyrophosphate, Salt, Soy Lecithin, DATEM, Caramel Color, Cinnamon, Natural Flavor, Ferric Orthophosphate (Iron), Niacinamide, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Riboflavin (Vitamin B2), Thiamin Mononitrate (Vitamin B1).

Nutrition Facts
Serving size: 1 pack
Calories: 230
     Calories from fat: 80
Total fat: 8g
     Sat Fat: .5g
     Trans Fat: 0g
     Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.5g
     Monounsaturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 220mg
Potassium: 85mg
Total Carbohydrates: 35g
     Dietary fiber: 3g
     Sugars: 11g
Protein: 4g
Iron: 10%

The ingredients are pretty good...would prefer all whole grains and non-GMO canola oil. The calories are a bit high for the fiber and protein count, but it does have healthy fats and is quite filling.

Other belVita crunchy flavours (all vegan):
Brand:
  • Nationwide voluntary recall by Mondelez Global LLC, East Hanover, NJ of belVita Breakfast Biscuit products, apple cinnamon and chocolate varieties. The recall was issued due to the possible presence of fragments of flexible metal mesh caused by a faulty screen at the company's facility (read here)

Review of belVita Crunchy Breakfast Biscuits -- Blueberry

belVita Crunchy Breakfast Biscuits -- Blueberry (vegan)
Overall rating: 3.5/5
Summary: blueberry flavour is super present and there are lots of chewy bits of blueberries that just make this the perfect mouthful. Every biscuit is fresh and crunchy and super sweet. This is by far my favourite belVita product to date out of the Soft-Baked Breakfast Bar (Mixed Berry)Crunchy Breakfast Biscuits -- Cinnamon Brown SugarCrunchy Breakfast Biscuits -- Chocolate. Actually, the Cinnamon Brown Sugar is rated the same, but I am a true blueberry fan, so I'd opt for blueberry. Highly recommended. The nutritional profile isn't too bad and I consider this a nice treat once in a while (sugars are a bit high and calories, given the protein  count).

Where to buy: Walmart, Target



Ingredients: whole grain blend (rolled oats, rye flakes), enriched flour (wheat flour, niacin, reduced iron, thiamine mononitrate (vitamin B1), riboflavin, folic acid), high oleic canola oil, sugar, whole grain wheat flour, evaporated cane sugar, dried blueberries, malt syrup (from corn and barley), invert sugar, baking soda, salt, soy lecithin, disodium pyrophosphate, natural flavour, datem, blueberry juice concentrate, ferric orthophosphate, niacinamide, pyridoxine hydrochloride, riboflavin, thiamin mononitrate.

Nutrition Facts
Serving size: 1 pack
Calories: 230
     Calories from fat: 70
Total fat: 8g
     Sat Fat: .5g
     Trans Fat: 0g
     Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g
     Monounsaturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 220mg
Potassium: 85mg
Total Carbohydrates: 36g
     Dietary fiber: 3g
     Sugars: 13g
Protein: 4g
Iron: 10%

The ingredients are pretty good...would prefer all whole grains and non-GMO canola oil. The calories are a bit high for the fiber and protein count, but it does have healthy fats and is quite filling.

Other belVita crunchy flavours (all vegan):
Brand:
  • Nationwide voluntary recall by Mondelez Global LLC, East Hanover, NJ of belVita Breakfast Biscuit products, apple cinnamon and chocolate varieties. The recall was issued due to the possible presence of fragments of flexible metal mesh caused by a faulty screen at the company's facility (read here)

Tuesday, 10 March 2015

Review of 'Planters' Chipotle Peanuts

Planters -- Chipotle Peanuts (vegan)
Overall Rating: 3/5
Summary: hmm, nice at first taste...then it seems like something is missing...or like the flavours are only thinly coated and aren't so powerful. I did love the spicyness, which somewhat made up for it. I was glad to find the nuts were very fresh and crunchy. I would not recommend this product, largely for the use of artificial flavour enhancers akin to MSG and which may have negative effects on health.

Where to buy: US only (product locator)



Ingredients: PEANUTS, PEANUT AND/OR COTTONSEED OIL, SALT, SUGAR, SPICES, DRIED ONIONS, CHIPOTLE CHILI PEPPER POWDER, DRIED TOMATOES, DRIED GARLIC, YEAST EXTRACT, CORNSTARCH, CITRIC ACID, NATURAL FLAVOR (CONTAINS CELERY), DISODIUM INOSINATE AND DISODIUM GUANYLATE (FLAVOR ENHANCERS), MALIC ACID, NATURAL SMOKE FLAVOR.

Nutrition Facts
Serving size: 39 pieces
Calories: 160
     Fat cal: 120
Total fat: 14g
     Sat fat: 2g
     Trans fat: 0g
     Polyunsat fat: 4.5g
     Monounsat fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 140mg
Potassium: 210mg
Total carb: 5g
     Fiber: 2g
     Sugars: 3g
Protein: 7g
Calcium: 4%
Iron: 8%

If not for the flavour enhancers, the ingredients would have been very good. These are both related to MSG (read about adverse impacts on health here). Fortunately, at least the nutritional profile is good, with only 160 calories, healthy fats, and a solid dose of protein. I'd still prefer a nutty snack bar, as I find these more filling.

Other 'Planters' Flavoured Peanuts:
Brand:
  • Since 1906
  • Sustainability initiatives
  • Member of Sustainable Agriculture Initiative (SAI) Platform
  • ISO 14001 certification and zero waste to landfill status at facilities
  • New plastic package is 100 percent recyclable, BPA-Free and has 84 percent less packaging material than the former glass jar by weight
  • A founding member of the African Cashew Alliance

Sunday, 8 March 2015

Review of 'Sunshine Healthy Snacks' Raisin Oat Bran Flakes Cereal

Sunshine Healthy Snacks -- Raisin Oat Bran Flakes Cereal
Overall Rating: 3/5
Summary: woah! Lots and lots of raisins. No skimping there. I expected the flakes to be crunchuer. Luckily, I really enjoy this as a warm cereal, so I add a bit of vanilla-flavoured soymilk with warm water; a-mazing. It doesn't hurt that it's got a solid dose of fiber and protein. I personally wouldn't buy this again, but only because I'm searching for a raisin bran cereal from a more progressive brand (e.g. organic ingredients, social/environmental standards, etc.).

Where to buy: Caribbean, Taiwan, Ireland, United States, Central America



Ingredients: Oat bran, wheat bran with other parts of wheat raisins, corn syrup, sugar, malt syrup, salt.

Nutrition Facts
Serving size: 1 cup
Calories: 190
     Calories from fat: 10
Total fat: 1g
     Saturated fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 140mg
Potassium: 220mg
Total carbohydrates: 41g
     Dietary fiber: 4g
     Sugars: 22g
     Total carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 5g
Vitamin A: 30%
Vitamin C: 50%
Iron: 60%

I love the simple and wholesome ingredients, except for the corn syrup (no info on GMO status). The nutritional profile is very good, with a healthy dose of fiber and protein and lots of vitamins and minerals. I think this is a good cereal, though I'll still be looking out for a brand that is more organic-minded and more committed to health, social, and environmental standards.

Other 'Sunshine' Cereals:
  • Corn Flakes (vegan)
  • Frosted Flakes (vegan)
  • Nutty Flakes
  • Choco Flakes
  • Raisin Bran (vegan)
  • Oat Bran Flakes (vegan)
  • Bran Stix (vegan)
  • 100% Oat Bran (vegan)
  • Froot Ooo's (vegan)
  • Super Shapes
  • Space Froids

Brand:
  • Manufactured by Associated Brands Industries Limited (ABIL) (1974)
  • Manufacturing facilities are all located in Trinidad

Review of 'Thornhill Farms' Rice Cracker Chips (Sea Salt and Vinegar)

Thornhill Farms -- Rice Cracker Chips (Sea Salt and Vinegar)
Overall Rating: 3/5
Summary: nice and crunchy and fresh. Really great salt and vinegar flavour. Unfortunately, there's no fiber and only 1g of protein, so you better find something with fiber/protein to have with these. Otherwise, it's just empty calories. I wouldn't buy it again for the simple reason that I wanna be able to enjoy it alone without feeling the need to pair it with something for nutrition...it's especially hard to find something to have with sea salt and vinegar! If you're a big salt and vinegar fan, go for it!

Where to buy: online
Sea Salt & Vinegar Rice Bites english french
Ingredients: White Rice Flour, Rice Bran Oil, Corn Maltodextrin, Sea Salt, Vinegar Powder, Soy Sauce Powder [Fermented Soy Sauce (Defatted Soybean Meal), Maltodextrin, Salt, Caramel Color] and Soybean Tocopherols (to Preserve Freshness).

Gluten free. Contains soy. May contain milk.

Nutrition Facts
Serving size: 26 crackers
Calories: 140
     Calories from fat: 25
Total fat: 3g
     Saturated fat: 0g
     Trans fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 135mg
Total carbohydrate: 26g
     Dietary fiber: 0g
     Sugars: 0g
Protein: 1g

Nope, not a big fan of the soy ingredients (non-organic) and caramel color (artificial, assumed). The nutritional profile is scant, with no fiber and very little protein and no minerals and vitamins. Not cool, especially for people who work out (like me!), where calories really need to be paired with a certain amount of nutrition.

Other flavours (vegan):

Brand:
  • Since 2009, Canadian

Review of Fry's Chocolate Cream Dark Chocolate Bar

Fry's - Chocolate Cream
Overall Rating: 3/5
Summary: crisp chocolate outer and very dense and sweet fondant on the inside. I love the texture...crisp outer plus smooth inner. The cocoa flavour is sharp, which I liked. If you don't have a super sweet tooth, stay away! Ingredients aren't so great and the nutritional profile is pretty empty so this is an indulgence for sure!

Where to buy: Bulk Barn



Ingredients: sugar, glucose syrup, cocoa butter, cocoa mass, humectant (glycerol), vegetable fats (palm, shea), emulsifiers (soya lecithin, E476) flavourings.

Nutritional profile
Serving size: 1 bar
Calories: 205
     Calories from fat: 59
Fat: 6.5g
     Saturated: 3.9g
Sodium: 0mg
Total carbs: 35
Dietary fiber: .6g
Sugars: 32.2g
Protein: 1.4g

Okay, so the ingredients are basically fat and sugar. Do yourself a favour and keep walking.

Other Fry's varieties:
Brand:
  • Not very impressive on the health front...at all.
  • No commitment to going GMO free

Review of 'Clif Builder's Bar' Vanilla Almond

Clif Builder's Bar -- Vanilla Almond (vegan)
Overall rating: 3.5/5
Summary: vanilla flavour is subtle and the bar is super sweet. I would have liked more chunks of (toasted!) almonds, rather than the smaller bits here and there. The texture is great; thick wafery inner and outer icing layer. I did really enjoy this bar, flavour-wise, nutrition-wise, and texture-wise, but I didn't rate ithigher because the soy ingredients are not organic. In 2015, when so many big companies are producing and using organic soybean, it's time for Clif to catch up! I do still recommend it though, as I have confidence that Clif will eventually integrate organic soy into the already lengthy organic ingredients list.

Where to buy: Fortinos



Ingredients: Soy Protein Isolate, Beet Juice Concentrate, Organic Brown Rice Syrup, Organic Dried Cane Syrup, Palm Kernel Oil, Organic Peanuts, Natural Flavors, Organic Soy Flour, Vegetable Glycerin, Inulin (Chicory Extract), Organic Peanut Flour, Rice Starch, Organic Oat Fiber, Sea Salt, Organic Sunflower Oil, Organic Palm Kernel Oil, Organic Soy Lecithin, Soy Lecithin, Organic Vanilla Extract, Salt, Natural Vitamin E (Antioxidant).

ALLERGEN STATEMENT: CONTAINS SOY AND PEANUTS. MAY CONTAIN TRACES OF MILK, WHEAT, AND TREE NUTS.

Nutrition Facts
Serving size: 1 bar
Calories: 270
Fat: 9g
     Saturated fat: 5g
     Trans: 0g
     Polyunsaturated: 1.5g
     Linoleic acid: 1g
     n-3 linolenic acid: .2g
     Monounsaturated: 2.5g
Cholesterol: 0g
Sodium: 210mg
Potassium: 480mg
Total carb: 29g
     Dietary fiber: 3g
     Sugars: 22g
Protein: 20g

Full nutritional profile available here.

Pretty good ingredients list, except for the non-organic soy. The nutritional profile is quite good; there's a ton of protein for 270 calories, but would have been better with at least 4g of fiber for the calorie count.

Other Clif Builder's Bars (all vegan):
Brand: