Is Submarinos strawberry creme filled snack cakes Halal?

The Ingredient Breakdown

When investigating the Halal status of processed foods like Submarinos, we must look beyond the main components like flour and sugar and focus on the additives that often trip up consumers. As a food scientist, I look for specific processing agents that can be animal-derived. In the case of Submarinos, the verdict is clear primarily due to one specific ingredient.

The primary culprit is gelatin. Gelatin is a protein obtained by boiling skin, tendons, ligaments, and/or bones with water. It is usually obtained from cows or pigs. For a product to be Halal, if beef is used, the animal must have been slaughtered according to Islamic rites. However, in mass-produced snack cakes, manufacturers rarely specify the source or slaughter method of their gelatin. Furthermore, if the gelatin is derived from pork—which is common in cheaper food manufacturing—it is strictly Haram (forbidden). Without a specific Halal certification on the packaging, you cannot assume the gelatin used here is compliant.

Additionally, while not a definitive deal-breaker like gelatin, the presence of mono & diglycerides and polysorbate 60 warrants attention. These are emulsifiers used to keep the creme filling smooth and prevent separation. They can be derived from animal fats (tallow) or vegetable oils. While vegetable sources are common, the lack of transparency means we cannot rule out animal sources. However, the gelatin is the undeniable red flag that makes this product unsuitable for a Halal diet.

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional standpoint, Submarinos strawberry creme filled snack cakes are classified as a 'sometimes' food rather than a staple. The ingredient list is dominated by high fructose corn syrup and sugar, placing these cakes high on the glycemic index. This means they can cause rapid spikes in blood sugar levels, which is not ideal for those managing diabetes or trying to maintain steady energy levels throughout the day.

The fat content comes primarily from vegetable shortening (palm and/or canola oil). While these are plant-based fats, the product is still calorie-dense with minimal nutritional benefit. You are looking at a snack that provides quick energy (carbohydrates) but lacks significant fiber, protein, or essential vitamins that would make it a healthy choice. If you are monitoring your caloric intake for weight management, these cakes would be considered a high-calorie indulgence that offers little satiety in return.