Is 20oz Vegetable Tray SSK Kosher?

The Ingredient Breakdown

When determining if a pre-packaged food item like the 20oz Vegetable Tray SSK is kosher, the primary focus is often on the processed components. The raw vegetables—carrots, tomatoes, broccoli, celery, and snap peas—are inherently kosher. The critical analysis lies in the Ranch Dip.

Looking at the dip's composition, we see standard dairy ingredients such as buttermilk, milk powder, whey, and sour cream. While these make the dip dairy, they do not automatically disqualify the product from being kosher. The key concern is usually the source of enzymes or flavorings. However, the ingredients listed here rely on modified corn starch, xanthan gum, and natural flavors derived from garlic and onion.

Furthermore, the emulsifiers and preservatives used, such as sodium caseinate (a milk derivative) and guar gum, are plant-derived or dairy-based but acceptable. There are no animal-based thickeners like gelatin present. The coloring agents annatto and beta carotene are plant-sourced colorants, which are generally considered kosher. Therefore, from an ingredient standpoint, the tray poses no kosher violations.

Nutritional Value

While the kosher status is confirmed, the nutritional profile of the 20oz Vegetable Tray SSK is equally important for health-conscious consumers. The tray is primarily composed of low-calorie, high-fiber vegetables, making it an excellent volume-eating option. However, the ranch dip significantly alters the macronutrient balance.

The dip contains soybean oil and sour cream, contributing to the fat content. A single serving of the dip can account for a significant portion of the daily recommended saturated fat intake. Additionally, the inclusion of sugar, salt, and monosodium glutamate (MSG) spikes the sodium and sugar levels. While the vegetables provide vitamins A and C, the health benefits are somewhat offset by the high-calorie, high-sodium nature of the ranch dressing. For those strictly monitoring their intake, the dip should be used sparingly.