Saturday, 16 January 2016

Newtons -- Original Fig (vegan)
Overall Rating: 3.5/5
Summary: this is really tasty but I subtracted points for the not so great nutritional profile and ingredients. You really get the fig texture and it's very sweet in a good way (not overly sugary). It's moist and has a nice chewy outer (not crumbly) and that sweet fig filling. There's nothing exciting to report regarding the brand and their social/environmental initiatives. I am looking forward to trying the 100% whole grain versions (see below).

Where to buy: product locator (US only)

Fig Newton Coupon: Cookies $0.63 at Rite Aid!

Ingredients: figs, whole grain wheat flour, sugar, enriched flour (wheat flour, niacin, reduced iron, thiamine mononitrate [vitamin B1], riboflavin [vitamin B2], folic acid), corn syrup, invert sugar, soybean oil, partially hydrogenated cottenseed oil, salt, baking soda, calcium lactate, malic acid, soy lecithin, sodium benzoate and sulfur dioxide (sulfites) added to preserve freshness, natural and artificial flavour.

Nutrition Facts
Serving size: 1 cookie
Calories: 100
     Calories from fat: 20
Total fat: 2g
     Saturated fat: 0g
     Trans fat: 0g
     Polyunsaturated fat: 1g
     Monounsaturated fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 95mg
Potassium: 70mg
Total carbohydrates: 21g
     Dietary fiber: 1g
     Sugars: 12g
Protein: 1g
Calcium: 2%
Iron: 4%

Ingredients are okay...all whole wheat flour would be nice and organic soybean oil and no hydrogenated oil would be even better. The nutritional profile is also just okay...it's low-calorie and low in sodium per serving, but doesn't have much by way of protein and fiber.

Other Newtons Fruit Thins flavours:

  • Fat Free Fig
  • Strawberry
  • 100% Whole Grain Fig
  • 100% Whole Grain Triple Berry
  • 100% Whole Grain Baked Apple and Cinnamon
  • 100% Whole Grain Sweet Peach and Apricot

Brand:
  • Part of Mondelēz International
Posted by at 1 comment:

Review of 'Worthington Loma Linda' Tender Bits

Worthington Loma Linda -- Tender Bits (vegan)
Overall Rating: 3/5
Summary: because it is so salty (like many Worthington products), I recommend using this to add to unsalted cooked veggies. The texture is soft, not chewy like I anticipated and pretty simple. I wouldn't recommend this product because of the ingredients that are still up for discussion in terms of healthfulness (see below).

Where to buy: US store locator

Tender Bits 19-oz (Pack of 6)


Ingredients: water, wheat gluten, rice flour, corn oil, oat flour, soy protein concentrate. Contains less than 2% or less of torula yeast, onion powder, soy lecithin, l-lysine monohydrochloride, yeast extract, vitamins (niacinamide, calcium pantothenate, vitamin B1 [thiamin mononitrate]. vitamin B6 [pyridoxine hydrochloride], vitamin B2 [riboflavin], vitamin B12 [cyanocobalamin], salt, dextrose, caramel color, celery extract.

Broth: water, salt, hydrolyzed soy protein, corn oil, and caramel color.

Contains: wheat and soy.

Nutrition Facts
Serving size: 6 pieces (about85g)
Calories: 120
     Calories from fat: 35
Total fat: 4g
     Saturated fat: 0.5g
     Trans fat: 0g
     Polyunsaturated fat: 2.5g
     Monounsaturated fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 440mg
Potassium: 55mg
Total carbohydrate: 7g
     Dietary fiber: 3g
     Sugars: 0g
Protein: 13g
Iron: 4%

The soy and corn ingredients are not identified as organic or sustainably sourced, so there is a risk that they are from sources that contribute to tropical deforestation and climate change. If you are interested in avoiding this, I'd say this product is not for you. The caramel colour is linked to harmful effects on health.

The nutritional profile is much nicer than the ingredients. It's super low-calorie, super low in fat, and is packed with protein. The major downside is the high sodium.

Other Worthington Loma Linda canned products:
Brand:
  • 1939, founded by psychiatrist Dr. George Harding
  • May contain GMOs
Posted by at 1 comment:

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)
Posted by at 3 comments:

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 
Posted by at 1 comment:

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
Posted by at No comments:

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
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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:

Posted by at 1 comment:

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:
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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
Posted by at 1 comment:

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:
Posted by at No comments:

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
Posted by at No comments:

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:
Posted by at 1 comment:

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:
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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 Mondelēz International
Posted by at No comments:

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
Posted by at No comments:

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
Posted by at 3 comments:

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.
Posted by at No comments:

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
Posted by at No comments:

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
Posted by at No comments:

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
Posted by at No comments:
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