Is Handisnacks oreo cookie sticks n crme dip snack packs Kosher?

The Ingredient Breakdown

When determining if a processed snack like Handisnacks is Kosher, we look for specific red flags like animal fats, gelatin, or non-Kosher certified flavorings. The ingredients in the Oreo cookie sticks include unbleached enriched flour, sugar, and canola oil. These are all plant-based and generally Kosher. The cocoa processed with alkali (Dutch process) is also acceptable. The high fructose corn syrup and baking soda are standard Kosher ingredients.

Turning to the creme dip, the primary fats listed are canola and/or palm and/or palm kernel oil. Unlike the original Oreo cookie which historically contained lard (a non-Kosher animal fat), this snack pack version relies exclusively on vegetable oils. The soy lecithin used as an emulsifier is derived from soybeans and poses no Kosher issues. Finally, the artificial flavors and artificial colors in both components are synthetic and do not contain animal products.

Nutritional Value

While these snack packs are Kosher, they are primarily a treat. A standard serving contains a significant amount of added sugar, coming from both the cookie sticks and the dip. If you are monitoring your sugar intake for weight management or blood sugar control, this is an important factor to consider. The canola oil in the sticks and the palm/palm kernel oils in the dip contribute to the total fat content. While these are vegetable fats, the snack is calorie-dense relative to its portion size. It fits into a diet as an occasional indulgence rather than a daily staple, particularly for those adhering to heart-healthy or low-calorie limits.