Does Mountian Trial Mix contain dairy or gluten?

Yes, it contains milk derivatives in the cocoa gems (whey powder, nonfat milk powder). It does not contain gluten ingredients, though cross-contamination is always a possibility in facilities that process wheat.

Is Mountian Trial Mix good for weight loss?

It is calorie-dense. While the nuts provide satiety, the high sugar content from raisins and cocoa gems can hinder weight loss if portion sizes are not strictly controlled.

Where can I buy Mountian Trial Mix?

This product is widely available at major retailers like Walmart, Target, and Amazon, as well as convenience stores.

Is Mountian Trial Mix safe for kids?

It is safe for children, but parents should be cautious of the choking hazard posed by whole nuts for younger kids and monitor the high sugar intake.

Is Mountian Trial Mix Kosher?

Yes, Mountian Trial Mix is kosher. Based on a detailed review of its ingredient list, there are no animal-derived ingredients or non-kosher additives present. This snack is generally considered compliant with kosher dietary laws.

The Ingredient Breakdown

When determining if a snack like Mountian Trial Mix is kosher, we look for specific red flags: animal derivatives, non-kosher flavorings, or questionable processing aids. The primary components here are peanuts, raisins, almonds, and cashews. These are all plant-based and inherently kosher. The inclusion of cocoa gems (chocolate-like pieces) requires a closer look, but the ingredients list shows they are made from sugar, vegetable oils, and cocoa powder, with no dairy fats like milk butter listed. This makes them suitable for a pareve (neutral) classification.

Another critical area is the oils used. The mix utilizes canola and/or peanut and/or sunflower oil. These are vegetable oils, which are kosher. The flavorings and colors, such as turmeric oleoresin and spirulina extract, are derived from plants and pose no kosher concerns. The absence of gelatin, glycerin (unless specified vegetable-based), or natural flavors derived from meat sources confirms the verdict. Therefore, the mix is free of the common flags that would render a snack non-kosher.

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional standpoint, Mountian Trial Mix offers a dense energy source, primarily derived from fats and sugars. The peanuts, almonds, and cashews provide heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and protein, essential for satiety. However, the cocoa gems and raisins contribute significant added sugars. A single serving can easily contain 8-10 grams of sugar, which is a notable portion of the daily recommended limit (25g for women, 36g for men).

Calorically, this mix is energy-dense. While the fats are mostly unsaturated (from nuts and vegetable oils), the total fat content can be high for those strictly monitoring intake. It fits well into a diet that requires high energy output, such as hiking, but may be less ideal for a sedentary weight-loss plan due to the combination of sugar and fat which can spike insulin levels. It is, however, an excellent source of minerals like magnesium and zinc from the nuts.