Does Hershey’s chocolate cream pie contain dairy or gluten?

Yes, it contains dairy (Whey, Butter, Butter Oil) and gluten (Enriched Wheat Flour). It is not suitable for dairy-free or gluten-free diets.

Is Hershey’s chocolate cream pie good for weight loss?

No, it is high in calories and sugar. It is not recommended for weight loss diets.

Where can I buy Hershey’s chocolate cream pie?

It is typically available in the freezer or dessert aisle of major grocery stores like Walmart, Kroger, and Target, as well as online via Amazon.

Is Hershey’s chocolate cream pie safe for kids?

Yes, it is safe for kids, but it contains significant amounts of sugar and caffeine from the cocoa, so portion control is advised.

Is Hershey’s chocolate cream pie Kosher?

Yes, Hershey’s chocolate cream pie is considered Kosher. Based on the ingredient list provided, there are no animal-derived ingredients that would violate Kosher dietary laws, such as non-Kosher gelatin or meat derivatives. While the product contains dairy, it does not contain any forbidden fats or blood products, making it acceptable for consumption under standard Kosher guidelines.

The Ingredient Breakdown

When determining the Kosher status of a processed dessert like Hershey’s chocolate cream pie, we must look beyond the surface and analyze the specific components. The primary ingredients include Water, Vegetable Oil (specifically Hydrogenated Palm Kernel, Palm, and Soybean), and Sugar. These are inherently plant-based and pose no Kosher issues. The crust introduces Enriched Flour (Wheat), which is acceptable, though strict observers should note that wheat must be processed correctly for Passover, though that is a separate certification.

The dairy component is significant here. The presence of Whey, Butter, and Butter Oil confirms that this product is dairy. In a Kosher context, this means the product cannot be served with meat meals. However, since there are no meat ingredients, the dairy status is not a violation of Kosher law—it simply dictates dietary pairing. Furthermore, the emulsifiers like Soy Lecithin and Mono- & Diglycerides are derived from vegetable sources in this formulation, avoiding the non-Kosher animal fat concerns often associated with generic glycerides.

Finally, we look at the flavorings and stabilizers. Ingredients like Natural and Artificial Flavor, Modified Food Starch, and Xanthan Gum are typically processed using Kosher methods. The cocoa used is processed with alkali, a method that is permitted. There are no red flags such as Gelatin (often derived from pork) or Red Dye No. 40 (which can be derived from insect shells, though synthetic versions are Kosher). Therefore, the chemical profile supports the verdict that this product is permissible.

Nutritional Value

While the pie passes the Kosher test, it is important to view it through a nutritional lens as well. The ingredient list is dominated by Sugar, High Fructose Corn Syrup, and Vegetable Oils. This combination creates a high-calorie, low-nutrient density food. A single serving likely contains a significant percentage of the daily recommended sugar intake, which can lead to rapid spikes in blood glucose levels followed by energy crashes.

Fat content is another area of concern. The use of Hydrogenated Palm Kernel Oil and Palm Oil contributes to the saturated fat content. While these are stable fats for baking, they are calorie-dense. The product does contain small amounts of Cocoa and Cocoa Butter, which provide some antioxidants, but not in quantities high enough to offset the sugar and fat load. For those monitoring their intake, this should be treated as an occasional indulgence rather than a dietary staple.