Is thin mints Kosher?

The Ingredient Breakdown

When determining if a cookie is Kosher, we look at the source of every ingredient. The base of enriched flour (wheat) is plant-based and generally acceptable. The primary concern in many cookies is the fat source and flavorings. The vegetable shortening listed here is derived from palm and/or partially hydrogenated palm kernel oils, which are vegetable-based and do not present the animal fat issues found in lard.

For the chocolate flavor, the cookie uses cocoa processed with alkali. This is a standard manufacturing process for cocoa and is acceptable. The most critical ingredient to verify in mint cookies is the flavoring. Here, the peppermint oil and natural and artificial flavor are plant-derived or synthetic, avoiding the use of non-Kosher castoreum (a beaver secretion sometimes used in natural flavors). Because the recipe relies on vegetable oils and plant-based flavorings, it avoids the common pitfalls of non-Kosher cookies.

Nutritional Value

While thin mints are Kosher, they are a treat meant for enjoyment rather than health. A standard serving contains a significant amount of sugar and vegetable shortening, contributing to a higher calorie count. For those monitoring their sugar intake, these cookies should be eaten in moderation. They do not provide significant vitamins or minerals beyond what is added to the enriched flour. If you are following a strict diet for weight management or blood sugar control, this cookie would be considered a 'sometimes' food rather than a daily staple.