Does Pecans Halves contain dairy or gluten?

The product does not contain dairy or gluten as ingredients. However, it is processed on shared equipment with milk and wheat, so trace amounts may be present.

Is Pecans Halves good for weight loss?

They are calorie-dense, so portion control is key. However, the high fiber and fat content can help keep you full, potentially aiding weight loss by reducing overall snacking.

Where can I buy Pecans Halves?

Pecans Halves are widely available at major retailers like Walmart, Target, Costco, and online through Amazon.

Is Pecans Halves safe for kids?

Yes, they are a nutritious snack for kids, but be mindful of the choking hazard for younger children and the potential allergen risks due to shared equipment with peanuts and tree nuts.

Is Pecans Halves Vegan?

No, strictly speaking, Pecans Halves are not vegan. While the ingredient list appears clean, the manufacturing disclaimer reveals the product is processed on shared equipment with milk. This creates a cross-contamination risk that violates strict vegan standards.

The Ingredient Breakdown

At first glance, the ingredient label for Pecans Halves looks deceptively simple. The primary and only listed ingredient is PECANS. In a vacuum, pecans are tree nuts and are entirely plant-based, making them naturally vegan. However, as a food scientist, I always look beyond the primary ingredients to the manufacturing environment.

The controversy lies in the allergen statement: "MANUFACTURED AND PACKAGED ON SHARED EQUIPMENT WITH... MILK." This is the critical detail. When a facility processes dairy products (like milk chocolate or cheese-coated nuts) on the same lines as these pecans, microscopic particles of milk protein (casein and whey) can transfer to the nuts. For a product to be truly vegan, it must be free from animal exploitation and cruelty, and strict vegans avoid products that contribute to the demand for dairy processing facilities.

Furthermore, the presence of SHELL PIECES is a physical contaminant rather than an additive, but it highlights the processing method. While not an animal product, it speaks to the raw nature of the packaging line. The inclusion of SOY and WHEAT in the shared equipment warning further complicates matters for those with multiple dietary restrictions, though these are plant-based.

🚫 Culprit Ingredients:

milk

Nutritional Value

Pecans Halves are a nutritional powerhouse, offering a dense source of energy and healthy fats. A standard serving is high in calories, primarily derived from monounsaturated fats, which are excellent for heart health. They are also a significant source of manganese and copper, essential minerals for metabolic function.

Regarding sugar content, raw pecans are naturally low in sugar, making them a great option for those managing blood glucose levels. However, because this product is often sold as a snack, portion control is vital. The high fat content, while healthy, means that overconsumption can easily lead to a caloric surplus. They fit well into Keto, Paleo, and Whole30 diets, provided the dairy cross-contamination is acceptable to the individual.