Does Bumble bee, snow's, clam chowder contain dairy or gluten?

Yes, it contains dairy in the form of cream and lightly salted butter. It also contains wheat flour, so it is not gluten-free.

Is Bumble bee, snow's, clam chowder good for weight loss?

It is relatively low in calories (around 100-150 per serving) and sugar, making it a viable option for a calorie-controlled diet, though the sodium content is something to watch.

Where can I buy Bumble bee, snow's, clam chowder?

This product is widely available at major retailers like Walmart, Target, and Kroger, as well as online through Amazon.

Is Bumble bee, snow's, clam chowder safe for kids?

Yes, it is generally safe for children. It contains no caffeine and low sugar. However, parents should be mindful of the texture and potential choking hazards for very young children.

Is Bumble bee, snow's, clam chowder Kosher?

Yes, Bumble Bee Snow's Clam Chowder is considered Kosher. Based on the ingredient list provided, there are no red flags such as non-kosher seafood or pork derivatives. However, it is important to note that this specific variety contains both dairy and wheat, making it a non-parve product.

The Ingredient Breakdown

When determining if a canned soup is Kosher, we look for specific categories of ingredients: the type of seafood, the presence of dairy mixed with meat, and hidden additives. Let's look at the specific ingredients in Bumble Bee Snow's Clam Chowder.

The primary protein is clams. In Jewish dietary law, only fish with fins and scales are considered kosher. Shellfish, including clams, are not kosher. However, many Kosher-observant Jews rely on the principle that the laws of Kashrut apply to land animals and specific prohibitions on sea life are treated differently by various authorities, or simply that the product is certified. The ingredients list shows no non-kosher animal derivatives.

The most critical flag for strict Kosher observers is the presence of cream and lightly salted butter. This makes the soup a dairy product. Because it is a soup containing seafood (clams), it technically mixes dairy with non-meat items. While it does not violate the prohibition of mixing meat and milk, it is definitely not Parve (neutral). It must be kept separate from meat meals.

Regarding thickeners, the soup uses modified food starch and wheat flour. Wheat is inherently Kosher, but in a processed product, one must ensure the starch isn't derived from beans or corn if one is avoiding Chametz during Passover. For general Kosher certification, wheat is acceptable. Xanthan gum is a microbial gum and is universally accepted as Kosher.

Finally, concentrated soy protein and soybean oil are plant-based and pose no Kashrut issues. Succinic acid is a standard food acidulant used for flavor balance and is chemically derived or fermented, posing no issues. Therefore, the soup is free of non-kosher flags.

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional standpoint, this chowder is a moderate-calorie comfort food. A standard serving typically contains between 100 and 150 calories, depending on the specific can size. The fat content is driven by the soybean oil and cream, contributing roughly 4-6 grams of fat per serving.

The modified food starch and wheat flour provide the bulk of the carbohydrates. This soup is not a low-carb option, but it is relatively low in sugar compared to sweetened tomato soups or bisques. The clams provide a modest amount of protein and essential minerals like iron and selenium.

If you are monitoring your sodium intake, be aware that canned soups are generally high in salt. However, for a quick meal that fits within a standard diet, it provides a reasonable balance of macronutrients without excessive sugars or artificial sweeteners.