Does PECAN MAPLE FLAVORED GRANOLA contain dairy or gluten?

Based on the ingredients list, this granola contains no dairy or gluten ingredients. It uses organic canola oil rather than butter, making it Pareve.

Is PECAN MAPLE FLAVORED GRANOLA good for weight loss?

It is calorie-dense due to the nuts and added sugars. While nutritious, it is not specifically formulated for weight loss; portion control is essential.

Where can I buy PECAN MAPLE FLAVORED GRANOLA?

This product is available at major retailers like Whole Foods, Sprouts, and online via Amazon.

Is PECAN MAPLE FLAVORED GRANOLA safe for kids?

Yes, it is generally safe for children. However, due to the sticky texture of granola and the sugar content, it should be eaten in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Is PECAN MAPLE FLAVORED GRANOLA Kosher?

Yes, PECAN MAPLE FLAVORED GRANOLA is considered Kosher. Based on a detailed analysis of its organic ingredients, including oats, pecans, and maple syrup, there are no animal-derived additives or prohibited substances found in the formulation. This makes it a safe choice for those observing Kosher dietary laws.

The Ingredient Breakdown

When determining the Kosher status of a processed food like granola, we must look beyond the main flavors and inspect the functional ingredients. For PECAN MAPLE FLAVORED GRANOLA, the base consists of organic oats. While oats are inherently Kosher, they are often subject to 'cross-contamination' with wheat, rye, or barley during harvesting and processing. However, since this product does not list wheat gluten and is not marketed as containing gluten, the primary concern is the purity of the oats themselves.

The sweetening and flavor profile relies on organic cane sugar, maple syrup, and natural flavor. Organic cane sugar is universally accepted in Kosher diets. Maple syrup is a plant-based product and is naturally Kosher. The term 'natural flavor' is often a point of contention for food scientists and consumers alike. In this specific formulation, natural flavor is used to enhance the maple profile. Without the presence of dairy or alcohol carriers, natural flavors are generally considered Pareve (neutral).

Fats and nuts are also critical. The inclusion of pecans and sunflower seeds adds texture and healthy fats. Nuts are plant-based and require no special certification beyond ensuring they haven't been processed on equipment shared with non-Kosher items. The use of organic canola oil confirms the product is Pareve, meaning it contains no meat or dairy derivatives. Finally, cinnamon and sea salt are simple spices that pose no Kosher issues.

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional standpoint, this granola is designed for the health-conscious consumer, fitting into the 'health_fitness' category. The primary energy source comes from carbohydrates, specifically sugars like organic cane sugar and maple syrup. While these provide a quick energy boost, they also contribute to the calorie density. A standard serving typically contains between 130 to 150 calories, with a significant portion derived from added sugars.

Fat content is moderate and largely unsaturated, thanks to the organic canola oil and the natural oils from pecans and chia seeds. These are heart-healthy fats. The protein content is relatively low, typical for granola, but the inclusion of chia seeds and nuts does offer some amino acids. For those monitoring their sugar intake, this product should be eaten in moderation, as the 'flavored' aspect implies a higher sugar load than a plain oat cereal.