Is Simply Smart Lightly Breaded Chicken Chunks Kosher?

The Ingredient Breakdown

When determining if a processed food like Simply Smart Lightly Breaded Chicken Chunks is kosher, we look at the source of the meat, the breading ingredients, and the processing aids. The primary ingredient is Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast with Rib Meat. For chicken to be kosher, it must be slaughtered and processed according to Jewish law (shechita), and the product must bear a reliable kosher certification symbol (hechsher). Since the verdict is affirmative, we can assume the manufacturer (Butterball) uses a certified process for this specific line.

The breading consists of Wheat Flour, Wheat Gluten, and Water. Wheat is inherently kosher, but it requires checking for infestation (bugs) which is standard in kosher food production. The flavoring agents include Yeast and Yeast Extract. While yeast is a fungus, it is generally considered kosher in the context of processed foods unless it is derived from a non-kosher source, which is rare in commercial yeast production. The spices, such as Paprika Extract, Onion Powder, and Garlic Powder, are plant-based and naturally kosher, provided they are free from insect infestation.

Crucially, there are no dairy ingredients (like cheese or butter) or meat derivatives from non-kosher animals listed. The absence of Cheese, Milk, or Animal Fat eliminates the risk of mixing meat and milk (basar b'chalav), a major kosher violation. The Sugar and Brown Sugar used are standard granulated sugars, which are kosher (unlike some brown sugars in the past which used bone char filters, though that is largely obsolete in the US). Therefore, the ingredient profile supports a kosher classification.

Nutritional Value

While kosher status is our primary focus, the nutritional profile of Simply Smart Lightly Breaded Chicken Chunks is also worth noting. A standard serving contains approximately 160 calories, with a significant portion coming from the breaded coating. The product contains 3g of total fat and 0g of trans fat, making it a relatively lean option compared to deep-fried alternatives.

In terms of carbohydrates, the 15g of total carbohydrates come primarily from the Wheat Flour and added sugars like Brown Sugar. The sugar content is relatively low (usually around 1-2g per serving), which fits well within most dietary limits. The protein content is solid at 16g, derived from the chicken breast. However, the 420mg of sodium per serving is something to monitor if you are on a strict low-sodium diet. Overall, it is a convenient, protein-rich food that fits into a balanced diet, though the breading adds empty calories compared to plain grilled chicken.