Top 12 Brands For Organic Walnuts

Are you shopping for organic walnuts? There are many options when shopping for a superfood. Fun Fact: Archeologists have dug up roasted walnut shells in Europe that were 8000+ years old. Walnuts are a super-healthy food high in protein, healthy fats, and vitamins/minerals. They can be added to different recipes including chocolate chip cookies, green beans, and salads. These are some of the many dishes you can add the super-nut too. There are even some less-known options like pumpkin-walnut bread. Walnuts can provide several benefits to your food in terms of taste, texture, and nutrition. One of the main benefits of walnuts and other tree nuts is the munchy -crunchy goodness.

It’s important to note that natural and organic foods aren’t the same. For example, organic nuts are grown without any synthetic ingredients. That includes fertilizers, pesticides, and insecticides. This seems to provide more nutritional value since you won’t be consuming any food that was exposed to strong artificial chemicals. Such chemicals have been connected to many health issues so it’s best to avoid them as much as possible. There are several options so it’s good to know some of the top options. This will give you the best experience when picking a walnut brand.

What Are Walnuts All About?

Walnuts are a seed that is produced by the walnut tree. Walnuts are technical “drupes.” That’s because there’s a fruit that’s covered by a soft outer layer covering a seed within a thin shell.

Here’s how walnuts grow. When they age on the walnut tree the outer shell dries up and pulls off. This leaves the shell/seed. Regardless of whether it’s called nut or drupe, walnuts are seeds.

Walnuts are grown throughout the world but mostly in the Northern hemisphere. They’re also found in South America and Africa. Walnuts have been used in sweet/savory dishes for hundreds of years.

Persian/English is one of the most popular walnut varieties. It has a thin shell and large seed. This provides more meat per weight versus other types. The walnut originally was grown in the Middle East. However, the British monopoly on the nut’s trade led to it being linked to both world regions.

Other popular varieties are black and white walnuts. Some walnut tree species are grown for the drupes and wood.

Walnuts are available in whole/shelled varieties. They can also be frozen and stored for many months. Almond oil is another product on the market.

The nuts can also cause health risks for people with nut allergies. So if you’re planning to cook a dish for guests with nuts, check if any of them have any nut-related food allergies. This can help to prevent possible allergic reactions. Tree nuts are one of the top allergy-triggering foods among people.

Walnuts are used for several kinds of products. They include:

  • Stuffing
  • Salads
  • Cakes
  • Cookies
  • Fruit substitute

There are several ways walnuts can be used in cooking. This helps to explain their popularity in cooking. It’s worth researching the different uses of walnuts in various dishes.

Top Organic Walnut Brands

1. Organic Walnuts by NOW Foods

This product is certified organic/non-GMO. It includes a 12-ounce bag of walnuts. They’re raw/unsalted halves/pieces for baking and cooking applications.

2. Walnuts by Kirkland Signature

This is a good option based on the value you get. This product includes 3 lbs. of walnuts so it’s ideal for big recipes.

3. Walnuts by 365 Everyday Value

This is a 16-ounce product with walnut halves/pieces. There’s no salt added. The product is GMO-free/vegan.

4. California Walnuts by WE Got Nuts

This includes 3 lbs. of walnuts. They’re 100% natural with no preservatives. They’re fresh and include a resealable bag.

5. Chef’s Naturals Walnuts by FISHER

This product includes non-GMO walnut halves/pieces with no preservatives. You get 32 oz. of walnuts for good value.

6. Raw California Walnuts by Sunburst

The product includes 48 ounces of natural/no shell walnuts. The product is non-GMO and vegan with no preservatives.

7. Walnuts by Nature’s Eats

This product includes 16 ounces of walnuts. The product is 100% natural and heart-healthy. It’s also kosher certified.

8. Walnuts in Shell by Anna and Sarah

The product includes 5.5 pounds. The walnuts are in their natural shells and are unbleached. These are California-grown nuts.

9. Happy Belly Walnuts by Amazon Brand

The product is available in 16/40 ounce. This provides more flexibility depending on your cooking/baking needs.

10. California Walnuts by NUTS

The product includes raw/non-GMO walnuts. There’s a resealable bag so you can reuse it multiple times.

11. Black Walnuts by Hammons

The product includes an 8-ounce bag. It’s available in recipe ready and fancy large variants. It has a bold flavor for cooking/baking.

12. Shelled Walnuts by Diamond

This product includes 3 pounds of walnuts. You can pick 1 to 4 packs. The product includes fresh walnuts and is family-farmed.

Top Recipes for Organic Walnuts

Salads

You can also add walnuts to salads, which pairs well with greens and other ingredients. The main benefit is the crunch you get from the tree nuts. There is a wide range of recipes that include walnuts. The big plus is the extra texture you can add to traditional salad ingredients. They can include regular or candied walnuts.

Cake 

You can add walnuts to a wide range of different cakes. The tree nut provides some extra crunch that can pair well with other ingredients. Even if a recipe doesn’t include organic walnuts you could add some for some extra crunchy goodness.

Pies 

There’s a wide range of different pies that can include organic walnuts. If you want an alternative to pecan pie then this would be a good option. You can use many of the same nutrients as well as the ones that are especially high in walnuts.

Loaves

When you want something between bread and cake then this is a good option. You can pair the walnuts with ingredients like cherries and pineapples. Do some research to find other available recipes.

Pancakes

This might seem like an odd option. However, you can add texture with walnuts and other ingredients like apples. This will help to boost the protein, healthy fat, and fiber of your pancakes whether they’re made from wheat, buckwheat, or almond flour.

Cookies

Chocolate chip cookies are one of the best options. The walnuts help to complement the sweetness of the chocolate. Walnuts are an alternative to other options including almonds, cashews, and pistachios. They provide a rich/hearty flavor.

Coffee cake 

There are several variants of traditional breakfast food. Walnuts add more texture/crunch to the classic cake that’s often paired with a cup of coffee. You can add walnuts for nutrients like healthy fats, vitamins/minerals, and fiber from organic walnuts.

Best Brands Of Organic Walnut

Calories in Avocado Crisps Plus Easy Recipe Ideas

What is that snack food that you can easily fall snack on during SOS hunger or craving moments? For some, it’s Pizza. And for some, it’s dark chocolate. The list is endless. Talk about potato chips, cheese balls, plantain chips, and so on. But then, what if the snack you love suddenly becomes off-limits and experts say it’s bad for your health? What would you do? Isn’t it somewhat mean to be deprived completely of something you love? But what if the thing you love can kill you someday? That’s the challenge many of us have with food. We seek to strike a balance between healthy eating and enjoying our favorites. It seems Avocado crisps is right in the center of that balance. It is one of those few snacks that will please your taste buds without compromising your health.

The healthiest snacks are those that would help you reduce your sugar and salt intake. They are those snacks that won’t give you too many calories if you eat them in moderation. They are the snacks that will deliver nutrients to your body. Many people can’t do without chips and crisps. But it is hard to find healthy, nutritious, and delicious crisps. Those 3 combinations are hardly present in crisps. For example, fried crisps may be delicious and nutritious. But the oil type in which it is fried may make it unhealthy. How long it was fried also matters. So you see that a lot of things come into play here. Avocados crisps are sure delicious and nutritious. But you must pay attention to the recipe and cooking procedure to ensure that it stays healthy. This snack is rich, yummy, and plain delicious.

Avocado Crisps Calorie Content and Other Nutrition Facts

Here, we are will use 30g serving as our standard serving size. This should contain about 11 to 12 average-sized avocado crisps. This serving size will give you about 140 calories. 90 calories of these will come from healthy fat. It contains no Trans Fat or cholesterol.

This serving size should give you 470mg sodium, 1g sugar, and 2g dietary fiber, and 5g protein. You should also get minimal amounts of vitamins A and C, as well as calcium. Avocado crisps are low-carb (each serving contains only 8g), Atkin-friendly, and cholesterol-free.

You may wonder how long it will take you to burn 140 Calories off. Here are different ways:

  1. Walking for about 40 minutes (at 3mph)
  2. Running for about 13 minutes (at 6mph)
  3. Bicycling for about 19 minutes (at 10mph)
  4. Cleaning for about 47 minutes

Note: However that these values are estimated for a person of average weight (140 lbs.)

Easy Recipe Ideas

This is a simple recipe for making Avocado crisps. You only need about 5 minutes of prep time and 40 minutes of cooking time.

You will need the get the following ingredients ready:

  1. A large piece of ripe avocado
  2. 75 grams of Parmesan (freshly grated)
  3. A teaspoon of lemon juice
  4. One-half tsp. of garlic powder
  5. One-half teaspoon of Italian seasoning
  6. Freshly-ground black pepper
  7. Salt

When you have the ingredients ready, you can begin to make the crisps. Here are the directions to follow:

  1. Preheat your oven to about 150-170°C and use parchment paper to line 2 baking trays.
  2. While the oven is preheating, mash your avocado in a bowl (medium size) until it is smooth. You can use a fork to do the mashing.
  3. Stir in lemon juice, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. The season the mix with pepper and salt.
  4. Heap up a teaspoon on the mixture and place each scoop on the baking tray. There should be a space of about 3 inches between each of the scoops.
  5. Flatten the scoops to almost take up the gap. This means that the width of each scoop when flattened would be about 3 inches across. You can do this with a spoon (use the backside).
  6. Now you can bake until it becomes crispy and golden. This should take about 30 minutes.
  7. Allow the crisp to cool completely. Then, serve the avocado crisp at room temperature.

One thing to keep in mind is that Parmesan is very vital in this recipe. So don’t try to cut down the amount recommended. If you do, your chips would be soft. What makes the avocado crispy is the Parmesan (dry cheese). So make sure you use the exact amount recommended and spread it evenly across your batter.

Is This a Healthy Snack?

Avocado is healthy. Before, it used to make a scarce appearance on people’s tables. But nowadays, it has become commonplace. Avocado, and its many products, is now one of the staples you will find on store shelves across the country.

Why did people begin to eat lots of Avocado? Why did people become so interested in avocado products, including avocado crisps? It is simply because of the health benefits that this amazing food can deliver. Some of them are as follows:

1. Nutrition value

There are about 20 minerals and vitamins in Avocado. So they deliver great nutritional value. They also contain fibers and healthy fats (MUFAs).

2. Hunger control

Avocado crisp will help you to curtail hunger. This is because the snack will fill you up. And when you have better meal satisfaction, your desire for more food (or hunger) will be lower. Experts say that one serving of Avocado can last a person for about 5 hours before they feel hungry again.

3. Healthy weight management

This goes in line with hunger control. When hunger is under control, you will eat less. This means you will be consuming fewer calories. And this, in turn, means you can lose unwanted weight. More so plant-based fats, as you find in Avocado can help you shed off weight.

In summary, Avocado crisps are healthy snacks. And you can make them in less than an hour. They will satisfy your palates and fill you up, while also delivering nutritional and health benefits.

Oregano vs. Marjoram: What’s the Difference?

The difference between marjoram vs. oregano is a very common question. But in this question lies many other questions. The first question within this question is how they differ as plants. The second question is how they differ for culinary purposes. Also, many people who ask this question want to find out why marjoram and oregano are usually grouped. We will answer these 3 questions as much as possible. But one thing for sure is that these differences are often blurred so much that you may find it hard to distinguish them if you are a layman. The only seeming apparent difference is in how they taste. More so, there are various types of oregano. There are at least over 50 types. And to cap it all up, marjoram and oregano can cross-breed very easily if you grow them together in a garden. This makes it even harder to differentiate them.

Technically speaking, the major difference between oregano and marjoram is in how their calyces are shaped. There is no apparent difference in their leaves. They also have similar in their hairs and growth habit. Now, this can be a problem for some gardeners, let alone common buyers like you. Maybe you don’t even know what a calyx is! As such, most times, you will have to trust the experts if you are Oregano or Marjoram, either as plants or seeds. That is why you must buy only from merchants who are reputable and that you can trust. But who says you can’t know some of the differences too? We will show you some of them. Read on

Marjoram vs. Oregano: A Few Basic Facts

Oregano is a species of plant that belongs in the Origanum genus. Marjoram belongs to the same species too. The name of this genus comes from a root word in Greek, original. It means the joy or brightness of the mountains.

Plants in the Origanum genus are native plants of the Mediterranean, western Asia, and North Africa. These people have cultivated Origanum plants for many millennia. These include the ancient Greeks and Romans.

Even ancient Greek mythology makes references to both oregano and marjoram. It claims Aphrodite (one of the Greek goddesses) grew these two plants.

Some other common plants popularly called “oregano” include the following:

  1. Origanum heracleoticum (also winter marjoram). This is a popular plant in Italy
  2. Origanum vulgare (also wild marjoram or common oregano). This has quite large leaves. It also has a strong flavor of oregano. This is by far the most popular oregano species in Europe.
  3. Origanum onites (also pot marjoram). This plant has small leaves. It is also not as sweet as origanum Vulgare. This pairs so well with onion and garlic.

Now, you see that some oregano species are sometimes referred to as marjoram. But they are still different from true marjoram. So how do you know true marjoram? Its common name is sweet or knotted marjoram.

The Difference Between Oregano and True Marjoram

As we have said before, the clearest difference between these two plants is in the taste. These two herbs taste very differently. So this is very easy and clear to define. For instance, Oregano has a stronger taste than Marjoram. It also has a certain spicy taste.

Oregano also has some individual aromas and flavors, such as cloves, pine, and peppermint. But then, the flowers of all of these varieties taste the same and are very edible too. Many people use oregano to flavor their foods because of its strong flavors.

Oregano plays a vital role in famous recipes like pizza, tomato sauces, and pasta. However, it is also used widely in lots of other Italian, Mexican, and Greek dishes. More so, each tsp. of oregano (dried) contains only six calories and 0.2g fat.

The main flavor in oregano is a result of a chemical called carvacrol. But then, it is not the only chemical that gives oregano its taste. The distinctive taste of oregano comes from a combination of many different natural chemicals.

One variety of Origanum that tastes very strongly is the Origanum vulgare species. Many people prefer to call it Greek oregano. It contains carvacrol at very high levels.

True marjoram (remember, sweet marjoram) might be your best bet for culinary purposes. This is because its taste is quite mellower. Its pine flavor is also sweeter. Its cloves and citrus flavors are also sweeter, although to a lesser degree.

Many cooks will choose marjoram instead of oregano because the flavor it provides is more of a background flavor. This is different from Oregano that provides a dominant flavor.

Instead of carvacrol, the main chemical that gives marjoram its flavor is Sabinene hydrate. But aside from this, it has lots of similar chemicals, although in varying degrees. One tsp of marjoram (dried) contains two calories and 0.04g fat.

Let’s be honest here, you are not likely to find pure dried oregano in supermarkets. Most of those products also contain some marjoram in them. Anyway, tastes are quite personal. And most times, it takes a mix of the two herbs to give an ideal flavoring in many recipes.

Some people say that the flavor of oregano compares well with thyme flavor. Well, this is not far-fetched. Thymol, the chemical that gives thyme its flavor is also present in oregano. But maybe not as much thymol as you will find in oregano.

Marjoram vs. Oregano: Can You Use Them Interchangeably?

Fresh oregano can replace fresh marjoram very well. But then, its flavor is more pungent than and not as sweet as that or marjoram. So you should use about half tsp of oregano in place of 1 tsp. of marjoram. This formula only works for the dried varieties, though.

Fresh oregano has a much stronger taste than the dried stuff. So remember to factor that in when you are replacing Marjoram with fresh oregano in your recipe. More so, remember that oregano has varieties of flavor.

These are the basic things to bear in mind while differentiating marjoram vs. oregano. The differences may be subtle. But reputable merchants will not give you one in place of the other.

Way Better Snacks Tortilla Chips

Way Better tortilla chips include blue tortilla corn chips. There are also other ingredients like flax/chia seeds, quinoa, and radishes. The ingredients are natural/organic so healthier than other products on the

II. Talk about the brand, the company, and the type of product

The global snack food industry is worth about $440 billion (2018). This provides many options when picking products including corn chips. This is one of the most popular types along with others like potato chips, pretzels, and popcorn.

Way Better Snacks was founded in 2011 so it’s been on the market for nearly one decade. The company produces a wide range of different snacks. They include blue corn chips. This product also contains other ingredients like quinoa, chia/flax seeds, and radish.

III. Is it tasty (if food) or useful (if not food)

It’s received an average of 4/5 stars from 120+ reviews. Most reviewers liked the taste. However, some people don’t like the taste due to the other ingredients like quinoa, seeds, and radish. It’s better to try out the product to see if you like the taste. There are other flavors available including sweet potato, nacho cheese, and sweet chili.

Ingredients

  • Blue corn: This is a rarer type of corn found in snack foods versus yellow corn and other varieties. It has a similar taste and texture but is slightly different. This is the main ingredient in the corn chip.
  • Flax and Chia seeds: These are both low-carb seeds that are loaded with nutrients. They include protein, healthy fat, and fiber. The seeds have been trending in recent years on low-carb diets like Keto and Atkins and have low net carbs.
  • Quinoa: Quinoa is a cereal grain that’s been trending in the past decade. It’s one of the few plant-based complete proteins. It has all the essential amino acids people must get in food. It’s high in other nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
  • Radish: This might be a surprising ingredient in snack food. However, radish provides a little zing to the corn chip, which makes it a good ingredient. Just a little radish can provide some spice to the corn chips.

Why this version is better than competitors?

The product has blue corn, which is less common than other types in snack foods like yellow and white. However, it also has other ingredients like quinoa, flax/chia seeds, and radish. These ingredients add more flavor, texture, and nutrients to the product. The product also includes natural/organic ingredients, which also adds value to the product in terms of overall quality.

What are the benefits?

1. Natural/Organic

The ingredients in these corn chips are natural and organic. This includes ingredients like non-GMO blue corn chips. This provides many health benefits. You won’t get any genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in the ingredients.

2. Blue Corn

This type of corn is slightly different from other varieties like yellow and white corn. This is in terms of taste and texture. If you want a change from regular corn chips it’s a good option.

3. Ingredients

The product is “way better” in part because of the other ingredients. Besides blue corn you also get:

  • Quinoa
  • Flax
  • Chia
  • Radish seed
  • Broccoli seed
  • Sea salt

All of these flavors add more flavor, texture, and nutrients to the corn chips. These other ingredients help to take the corn chips to the next level. That’s even compared to regular snacks with blue corn.

4. Variants

The snack food is also available in other variants. They include sweet potato, sweet chili, and multi-grain. This offers more varieties if you want other unique chips versus plain corn chips. That’s in terms of ingredients, flavor, and nutrition.

5. Value

The price of the Way Better tortilla chips is higher than average. However, if you consider the ingredients, quality, and flavor then it’s likely worthwhile. For example, you get several other ingredients besides blue corn, which adds value to the product. It’s also organic/natural so you won’t get many artificial ingredients in other similar snack foods.

6. Sea Salt

This is a healthier version versus regular table salt. Iodized salt was developed to deal with a lack of nutrients in people’s diets. However, natural sea/rock salt is healthier because they’re less processed.

7. Vegan/Gluten-free

If you’re on the vegan diet or a gluten-free diet then this product is a good option. There are no meat products or grains like wheat or barley.

What is the price? How does it compare to competitor products?

The price is somewhat high in the under-$10 range. However, it’s worth considering the product you’re getting. It’s made with organic/natural ingredients. It also contains other ingredients besides blue corn including cereal, seeds, and root veggie. This adds value to the product.

The price is still higher than many other snacks at the same price range. However, you should consider the value you’re getting. It’s an important issue in terms of the price and might make it worthwhile due to the overall value you get.

Company Information

  • 800 Washington Avenue South Minneapolis, MN 55415
  • +1-612-314-2060

Customer Reviews

5 positive reviews

  •  Includes blue corn
  • Contains chia, flax, quinoa, etc.
  • Vegan
  • Gluten-free
  • Natural ingredients

 5 negative reviews

  • Might have stale chips
  • Chips might be soggy
  • Shipping issues
  • Might not include a full bag
  • High price

Where to buy

Way Better Snacks was founded in 2011 so it’s been on the market for nearly one decade. This makes it easier to find in supermarkets, health stores, etc. It’s important to call a store first to find out if they carry Way Better tortilla chips. This can help to verify if it’s available.

You can also purchase the product online. They include the Way Better homepage. You can also find it at online retailers like Amazon and Walmart. This can provide more convenience since you can shop at home, work, school, etc. It can save you time and effort. All you need is a device and an Internet connection.

Link to the product page: https://www.amazon.com/Way-Better-Snacks-Tortilla-Chips/dp/B0078DPDMC

Traditional Medicinals Throat Coat 16 Ct

Traditional Medicinals Throat Coat 16 Ct is a herbal tea marketed as caffeine-free and organic. It provides coating protection to the throat lining. According to a placebo-controlled and double-blind study, the product was shown to provide rapid and temporary relief for pain due to sore throat.

The Brand 

The brand and the company name is Traditional medicinals. They produce herbal products made from different plants and categorized them into herbal, detox, digestive, green, postnatal, prenatal, seasonal, relaxation, and laxative. 

  • Chamomile
  • Peppermint
  • Chamomile with lavender
  • Floral, mint, and eucalyptus blend
  • Schisandra berry
  • Dandelion
  • Echinacea plus
  • Echinacea
  • Fennel
  • Ginger
  • Hibiscus
  • Lemon balm
  • Licorice root
  • Moringa 
  • Nettle leaf
  • Raspberry leaf
  • Red clover
  • Spearmint
  • Turmeric with meadowsweet and ginger
  • Weightless cranberry

Is it tasty (if food) or useful (if not food)

Based on consumer reviews, some praised the tea’s herbal and earthy fragrance/taste. Others complained or disliked the product’s licorice flavor.

The following ingredients were listed organically in the product labels and online seller descriptions.

  • Licorice root (760 mg)
  • Slippery elm bark (80 mg)
  • Licorice root dry aqueous extract (60 mg)
  • Marshmallow root (60 mg)
  • Proprietary blend (1040 mg)
  • Wild cherry bar 
  • Bitter fennel fruit, 
  • Saigon cinnamon bark, 
  • Sweet orange peel

Why this version is better than competitors

The company stated on its homepage website that they made and sourced their teas from organic farming and wild-collected herbs. Such sourcing was from ethical trade partners. The product is marketed as support for throat health.

Benefits of Traditional Medicinals Throat Coat

According to testimonials and statements on the company’s website, throat coat:

  • Supports throat health by making decreasing irritation due to sore throat.
  • Provides fragrance and taste that is silky, earthy, sweet, and distinct licorice.
  • Provides a blend of organic and GMO-free ingredients
  • Provides singers and instructors with soothing relief.
  • Provides a blend of herbs.
  • Provides an easy to use teabags.

What is the price? How does it compare to competitor products?

The price depends on the online seller, delivery method, taxes, and quantity.

Store Quantity (per pack and tea bags) Price
shop.traditionalmedicinals.com 1 box – 16 tea bags 3 pack – 3 x 16 tea bags 6-pack 6 x 16 tea bags $5.29
$14.87
$26.74
Amazon.com 2 packs
3 packs		 $10.94 $17.28
djarts.com.au 1 box $15.95
Target.com 1 box $4.99
citymarket.com 1 box $4.61
Kroger.com 1 box Pickup $4.79 Delivery$4.79Ship $4.61
Ralphs 1 box Pickup ($4.99)Delivery ($4.99)
pay-less 1 box

Pickup $4.79

Delivery $4.79

Company Information

Company Address, Phone Number, and website

Warranty Info or guarantee, if applicable

The company stated on its website that its teas were manufactured and sourced from organic ingredients. You can also find some seals of fair wild, B corporations Kosher, GMO, and USDA organic sourcing certifications. They also mentioned a disclaimer that their product has not been evaluated by the US Food and Drug Administration. You can find the supplemental facts on their website’s supplemental button where it shows the calories, serving size, ingredients, certifications, and health advice.

Customer Reviews 

5 positive reviews

The following were from the traditional medicinals website reviews:

  • Fabulous Fabosio from PA lauded the tea’s effects on his throat. He says that the tea keeps his throat lubricated and now he hasn’t any problem singing on a high note.
  • Alyssa G from Lincoln, CA left 4 stars. She loved the unique flavor and said that the tea works better compared to a cough drop. 
  • Josh Reimer from Winkler, MB Canada left 5 stars. He loved to recommend the product as it made him feel a soothing and smoothing feeling in his throat.
  • I love the little mix of San Jose, CA used the tea when he/she rehearse.
  • D. Danielson of Amazon reviews left 5 stars and detailed that he/she enjoyed the tea’s soothing effect on his/her throat and the licorice flavor.

5 negative reviews

  • An anonymous reviewer left 3 stars on the company’s website and he isn’t fond of the licorice root flavor but praised the tea’s efficacy on coating his/her throat.
  • Uscgcox from Greenville, SC, USA left 2 stars because it tastes unpleasant although he/she said the tea may help the throat.
  • Sammy from an undisclosed location left 3 stars and said that it works but he can’t’ stand up to the licorice.
  • Jeff of New York, NY, USA was not a fan of licorice but said that the tea does coat his throat.
  • Kat from California enjoyed the tea but mentioned a deglycyrrhizinated licorice.

Where to buy

Kodiak Cakes Gluten Free Pancake and Waffle Baking Mix

Gluten is one thing a decent percentage of the world’s population looks out for when buying food items. It is due to the increased sensitivity it causes in them, so they rather go for gluten-free products. Fortunately, many more manufacturers are considering this group and producing more gluten-free varieties, an example is Kodiak cakes gluten-free pancake and waffle mix. Formerly gluten-sensitive individuals were denied the simple pleasure of using pancake mix because it contained gluten but thanks to the likes of the Kodiak brand, it is now an issue of the past. 

About Kodiak Cakes Gluten-Free Pancake and Waffle Baking Mix  

Before the invasion of nutrient-deprived, over-processed wheat, people depended on whole-grain for their necessary nourishment. Kodiak cake brand was and is still one of those brands that made use of a hundred percent whole grains, or at least that is what their homepage states. This brand dates as far back as 1982 when the founder Penny Clark packed her father’s special flapjack mix in paper bags with written instructions into their red wagon and sent off her eight-year-old son to distribute it in the neighborhood. The son came back with an empty wagon.

The business started as a family business and has remained the same ever since. Their products are still made with the family recipe. They have built a team structure where every member lives and works in the Wasatch mountain range. A good location to draw daily inspiration and motivation from. The team believes in sustainability beyond just sourcing ingredients, so they allocate time to safeguard their outdoors. 

Ingredients

The ingredients used in making these mixes are gluten-free oat flour, 7g of protein, non-GMO, no preservative, 100% whole grain, brown sugar, xanthan gum, sea salt, whole eggs, and tapioca starch. 

Why Kodiak Cakes Gluten-Free is better than competitors

We can say Kodiak cake is better than its competitors because it has maintained its quality over time. And in fact, it became one of the best sellers at target, surely that counts for something right?

What are the benefits?

Here are some benefits of Kodiak cakes gluten-free may be a good option for you;

Gluten-free

The hallmark of Kodiak cake gluten-free pancake and waffle mix is the fact that it contains no gluten. This would probably be the topmost reason why many people purchase it. So ordinarily the benefits will stem from this fact.

Gluten is a type of protein seen in barley, rye, triticale, and wheat. Food manufacturers usually use it to maintain the shape of their food like pancakes, waffles, cereal, pasta, and bread. You will also find that some cosmeticians use it in their product like lip balms.

Improves health

People who are gluten sensitive may have issues eating gluten as their gastrointestinal system is unable to digest it. This might cause serious illness and that is why it is best to go gluten-free with Kodiak cake. 

Although a gluten-free diet would place a limit on what products you can produce or use, it is for the greater good.

Gluten-sensitive people are to avoid any food that has gluten, even if it is present only in tiny amounts. This food includes cereal-based foods like rye, malt, barley, wheat, and triticale, bread, some candies, beer, many desserts, french fries, cake and pies, soups, processed meats, brown rice syrup, sauce mixes, self-basting meat, soy sauce, and malt derivatives.

Healthier alternative

Kodiak Is a healthier alternative for your pancake and waffle mix because of the ingredients used in making it. It is non-GMO, low carb, and will provide more nutrients than your regular mix. 

Prevents health complications

If people with this disease continue consuming gluten it may lead to complications like osteoporosis, infertility, multiple sclerosis, and some neurological conditions. There is also a documented connection between autoimmune disorders like thyroiditis and celiac disease.

Company Information

Company Address, Phone Number, and website

Warranty Info or guarantee, if applicable

While Kodiak cake believes their product is top quality they are willing to offer a refund if you had a missing/incomplete order, or it arrived expired. ​

Contact their online store for approval and a refund will either be issued or the product replaced or you will be given a store credit that is redeemable within fourteen days of purchase. 

Note that they do process refunds for purchase from retail partners. And the exchange or refund is only accessible for products less than fourteen days of purchase. 

Customer Reviews 

Positive reviews

  • CRAZY GOOD!
  • Delicious
  • Very good pancakes, gluten-free
  • Best tasting gluten-free pancakes on the market

Negative reviews

  • Disappointed
  • Not sure it was even Ok
  • Has traces of nuts in the ingredients so we couldn’t use it

Where to buy

Link to the product page: https://www.amazon.com/Kodiak-Cakes-Gluten-Pancake-Mountain/dp/B06VXR84S3

Yogi Detox Tea

Yogi detox tea is a product with herbs used in Traditional Indian Medicine. You get a 6-pack bundle that works out to 96 tea bags. These are natural tea bags that can help to detoxify the body naturally.

The Brand

There are various detox products on the markets including forms like powders, liquids, and tablets/capsules. Detox teas are one of the most popular options. They help to detoxify the body including the kidney, liver, etc. It’s also claimed detox tea can provide a general body detox, which many consumers want to achieve.

Yogi has been on the market for 35+ years since 1984. This makes it one of the oldest companies offering dietary supplements for body detox. Yogi offers several products on the market for detox. Herbal teas are a natural detox method that’s been used since ancient times.

Yogi Detox Tea review offers various herbs found in Traditional Indian Medicine. You might be familiar with some of them, while others are less known outside of India. However, there’s some scientific proof these ingredients might help to provide body detox. 

Is It Useful?

The product is Yogi detox tea reviews has received an average of 4.5/5 stars from 850+ reviews. Some people have reported the product didn’t work well for body detox. However, most people had a positive experience. They shared the detox tea was effective in providing a body detox. It’s important to try out the product yourself to see whether or not the product works for detox.

Ingredients

The ingredients in this product include:

  • Black Pepper
  • Clove Bud
  • Dandelion Root
  • Ginger Root
  • Honeysuckle Flower
  • Licorice Root
  • Organic Cinnamon Bark
  • Rhubarb Root
  • Winter Melon Seed

These are all healthy ingredients that are combined in one detox tea. It’s believed that you get the best results from the combination of all these different ingredients for body detox. It’s helpful to research the different ingredients so you’ll know how they can help when using detox teas.

Why this version is better than competitors

There are many detox teas on the market. This one is a difference in part because it includes herbs found in Traditional Indian Medicine. This is a niche that’s more difficult to find than basic detox teas. So if you’re looking for traditional Indian herbs this product is a good option. It’s one of the main features of the product.  

Another key difference with this product is it’s a 96-teabag bundle. This provides more value than most detox teas on the market. You get 6 boxes instead of just one with many products on the market. This provides better value and reduces how often you’ll have to purchase detox tea.

What are the benefits?

1. Brand

Yogi has been producing herbal products since 1984 so it has 30+ years of industry experience. This is a plus over other companies that have only been on the market for a few years, for example. Such companies have less industry experience, so your experience will likely be less positive when picking detox teas, for example.

2. Herbs

You get several natural herbs in this product, including dandelion, rhubarb, ginger, winter melon, clove, etc. The combination of these herbs is believed to provide an effective/natural body detox. That makes this product a good option if you’re looking for a way to provide a natural detox.

3. Value

Yogi Detox Tea includes a 6-pack bundle so there are nearly 100 teabags in this bundle. It provides more value than other products that only include 1 pack, for example. One of the key issues to consider when picking a product is the total value you get. 

4. Organic-Non-GMO

This detox tea contains no artificial ingredients like colors, flavors, and preservatives. It’s also USDA-certified organic, so it meets the industry standards in terms of organic products. This provides more value.

Yogi tea is also vegan, gluten-free, and caffeine-free. These are other features you might want.

5. Holistic

This is a holistic (whole-body) product so it doesn’t include any harsh chemicals or medical procedures. That makes detox teas a holistic approach if you want to experience a natural detox. While medical procedures and prescription treatments can work they can also have unwanted side-effects.

What is the price?

The price tag is about $23 for a 6-pack bundle or 96 tea bags. This works out to about 24 cents per teabag. The price tag for the 6-pack bundle is quite high. However, the price per piece is within the average price.

You should also consider you’re getting natural herbs from Traditional Indian Medicine (TIM).

So this price range is reasonable when considering the high-quality detox tea bags you’re getting. You can also save money in the long-term since nearly 100 tea bags provide more value than other products on the market.

Company Information

Company Address, Phone Number, and website

Warranty Info or guarantee, if applicable

This product is covered by Amazon’s warranty.

Customer Reviews

A. 5 positive reviews

  • Natural tea with herbs
  • 96 tea bags
  • Caffeine-free
  • Natural detox
  • No artificial flavors/sweeteners

B. 5 negative reviews

  • High price tags
  • Might cause anxiety attacks
  • Might cause heartburn
  • Might cause liver problems
  • Weak tea

Where to buy

Yogi was founded in 1984 so the company’s products like yogi detox tea review have been on the market for 35+ years. You can find it in supermarkets, drug stores, and health stores. Make sure to call a store first to find out if they carry the company’s products.

You can also find Yogi tea products online at the company’s homepage and online retailers like Amazon. All you need is a device like a desktop/laptop/mobile and an Internet connection to make your purchase. It provides more convenience since you can shop from anywhere you have your device and Internet connection. This option provides a lot of time and effort.

Link to the product page: https://www.amazon.com/Yogi-Tea-Cleansing-Traditional-Ayurvedic/dp/B0009F3SAK

Organic Potato Chips: Do We Really Need It?

Organic Potato Chips: What we Know so Far

The New York Times recently provided an article regarding whole foods tackling the subject of whole foods. The news article said that consumer interest in whole foods and organic foods seem to be settling into some regular level of consumption after double-digit growths in the past several years. There seems to be a trend for people who know their way around food and nutrition to gravitate towards whole foods that are organic and away from packaged organic foods. As such, people are going for organic meats, produce, and dairy products and less for organic crackers and cereal.

This points to the fact that eaters who are serious about their health may be smarter than what marketers think. It seems like people now understand that they should be purchasing fewer packaged items despite claiming that they are organic and instead, be purchasing responsibly grown and sustainable organic meat, produce, and dairy products. But people may be asking “Why?”.

This is due to the fact meat, produce, and other dairy products that are exposed and naked can be affected profoundly by processing and handling that is shoddy. People do not need to have their meat products (such as beef) injected with different chemicals or hormones for growth. The current scenario may have resulted in people getting sick and the FDA left at a conundrum as to where people got their salmonella. It seems that the current situation is pushing people into buying food that is raised and grown responsibly and food items that are organic.

On the other hand, people now recognize the fact the benefits to be gained from eating breakfast cereals that are organic are fewer along with any other organic “packaged” food items such as organic potato chips, organic chocolate chips, organic mac and cheese, and organic sodas.  The bottom line is that all of these packaged items are still highly processed food items and it is quite difficult to see what kind of privilege we get from eating them.

Healthiest  Chips: Some Possible Options

Now that we made it clear that Organic Potato Chips are more of an option than an actual need, we look at some of the possible healthiest chips available in the market today. Below are some of these Chips:

1. Totally Natural Kettle Cooked Potato Chips by Boulder Canyon

This potato chip brand may be fried but it has a taste that is not excessively oily. In the latest survey, a lot of individuals actually liked how this product tastes. According to reviewers, the chips contained salt in the right amounts which can bring people to potato chips bliss. Boulder Canyon Totally Natural Kettle Cooked Potato Chips can be purchased from Amazon.

2. Lime and Cracked Pepper Potato Chips by Red Rock Deli

These chips are made deli-style and walk the fine line between being perfectly crunchy and crispy while offering some interesting options for flavor such as sea salt that is pink Himalayan and red curry. Red Rock Deli Lime and Cracked Pepper Potato Chips can be purchased from Amazon as well.

3. Organic Sea Salt and Lime Tortilla Chips by Late July Snacks

These chips are considered restaurant-style. These Nacho chips are cooked using sunflower oil and are the perfect partner for people who are looking to have a good time with some margaritas. Late July Snacks Organic Sea Salt and Lime Tortilla Chips are available from Amazon as well.

4. Yes Peas by Popchips

Instead of being fried, these chips are popped using addictive ingredients such as yellow peas and green peas instead of potatoes. Yes, peas can also provide protein in the amount of six (6) grams per serving. Popchips Yes Peas is available from Amazon.

5. Deep River Snacks Original Sea Salt Kettle Cooked Potato Chips

This product is considered a chip that is full fat but one should not be worried to try this product out. The original version of this product only has a gram of difference in terms of fat content from its reduced-fat variant. As such, regardless of the flavor or variant you go for, these chips can be a fantastic snack option. Deep River Snacks Original Sea Salt Kettle Cooked Potato Chips can be purchased from Amazon.

6. Bare Baked Crunchy Beet Chips

Using beets instead of corn or potatoes can increase the fiber and flavor of the chips. A serving of the said chips that are colorful contains fiber in the amount of 8 grams which is 25% of what people should be taking on a daily basis. Bare Baked Crunchy Beet Chips can be purchased from Amazon.

7. Brandless Sweet Japaleno Lentil Crisps

While enjoying these chips, individuals can add some legumes. This chip is pulse-based and can provide a spicy kick due to the added cilantro and jalapenos. These crisps are available from brandless.com.

8. Sour Cream and Onion Potato Chips by Kettle Foods

For those looking to eat chips with flavor that is big should always go for food items that utilize authentic ingredients and should not go for ingredients that are synthetic or artificial. Crisps that are baked are not necessarily superior to kinds that are fried as they contain additives that are processed and sodium content that is much higher. 

9. Deep River Snacks Mesquite BBQ Kettle Cooked Potato Chips

For fans of barbecue flavor, Deep River Snacks Mesquite BBQ Kettle Cooked Potato Chips may be the ideal crisps. This is flavored with paprika, brown sugar, and mesquite including some boost in flavor using exotic spices.

10. Lay’s Kettle Cooked 40% Less Fat Original Chips

This chip from Lay’s has reduced fat content and can be purchased from almost any gas station or grocery store. It contains potassium in the amount of 443 mg for each portion size which means that this snack item can be a really decent one in terms of mineral content. 

11. 365 Everyday value Dill Pickle Potato Chips

Those who will be dropping by Whole Foods can get a bag of these chips tasting like a deli pickle that is tangy and crunchy. 365 Everyday value Dill Pickle Potato Chips should be considered by adventurous foodies

Vega Protein & Greens Powder: Is It Good For You?

Vega Protein and Greens Powder: A General Overview

This product from Vega is a green shake that is plant-based and rich in protein. It is developed to serve as a substitute for your protein shake routine in the afternoon and the morning and can provide the needed nutrients commonly obtained from leafy greens and veggies. One of its major selling points is that it can provide a staggering amount of proteins per serving (20 grams).

This shake can be enjoyed with other healthy food items such as non-dairy beverages, rice milk, almond milk, and water. Another advantage for this product is that it comes in different flavors such as tropical, berry, chocolate, and vanilla which means it can be added to any preferred beverage, shake, or smoothies. In this article, we look at some of the reviews and comments about Vega Proteins and Greens Powder. Read on to find out more!

Ingredients of Vega Protein and Greens Powder Reviews

Just like other green mix products, one needs to ensure that their chosen variant utilizes ingredients that are whole food and all-natural. Individuals also need to make sure that the product can replace some of the individual’s daily recommended consumption of veggies and fruits. The good news is that Vega Protein and Greens Powder can provide the said nutritional requirements since its components are made up of whole foods and ingredients that are natural.

Below are some of the specific ingredients of Vega Protein and Greens Powder:

  • Organic Kale Powder: Essential source of C and A vitamins
  • Papain Powder: Papain can be obtained from the papaya fruit and is needed for the breakdown of tough protein powders.
  • Stevia leaf Extract: This is a sweetener that is plant-based which provides this shake and product that amazing flavor even on its own
  • Broccoli Powder: ideal for improved digestive functions
  • Spinach Powder: Amazing source of vitamins K, A, and C, potassium, riboflavin, niacin, calcium, folic acid, fiber, and protein.
  • Sacha Inchi Protein– Provides significant levels of fiber, hair, and skin, vitamin E protein.
  • Hemp protein- Contains high levels of essential fatty acids and amino acids
  • Brown Rice Protein– Good for digestion due to increased fiber content.
  • Pea Starch- Contains increased amounts of B vitamins, vitamin K, E, and A, potassium, zinc, iron, calcium, chlorophyll, and micronutrients.
  • Pea Protein- To help in blood sugar regulation, heart health, and comfort for the muscles after working out. 

Vega Protein and Greens Powder Reviews Different Factors to Look Out for

Below are some of the factors to consider before determining if Vega Protein and Greens Powder are perfect for the individual’s needs:

The Brand

Vega is a brand that has been for more than ten (10) years and athletes and other individuals have been using the products for a significant number of years. The brand caters mostly to the needs of vegetarians and vegans especially in terms of their unique nutritional and health needs. Vega claims to be able to support muscle growth and recovery while ensuring that the individuals feel full and help them get through their routines daily.

Taste

As stated earlier, there are several different variants that people can go for, and based on user reviews, most individuals prefer the taste of this specific product compared to other variants. The taste can be described as accurate and robust. All in all, the taste is pretty good though the inclusion of Stevia as a sweetener means it can have a bad aftertaste for other individuals. It also has a general better mouthfeel since it easily combines and mixes well with other ingredients.

Available flavors

This powder product comes in six (6) different flavors and compared to other brands, is quite a significant amount. These different flavors also ensure that people don’t easily get tired of their choices or options and with some added ingredients, it can aid individuals in meeting their goals for protein intake without any issues. While people can simply go for the natural flavor, there are also other unique flavors such as tropical and berry which are both well-loved by users and the general customer base of Vega.

Consistency

The product also has varying consistencies that are dependent on what is being added or mixed into it. Some reviewers pointed out that if mixed with just plain water, the product can have chalk and gritty feeling in the mouth when taken in. This seems to not be the case, though, when the powder is mixed with other ingredients such as meals and almond milk. It thickens easily and is smooth which in turn results in a consistency that is very similar to standard shakes.

Effectiveness

In several positive ways, this product is pretty effective. It has the needed protein to address the daily requirement of the body in terms of protein. It is also filled with Greens and Veggies. These ingredients all contribute to the individual’s convenience since all of these components can be difficult to consume on a regular diet without any added supplements.

Protein

The protein from this product is obtained from a different number of source items. It has protein in the amount of twenty grams per serving. For plant-based proteins, this is considered average. Whey protein contains high levels of protein compared to other vegan options but some individuals simply cannot have whey in their diet. This product is tasty and vegan-friendly and can help individuals achieve their health targets when combined with a healthy diet and lifestyle. This is especially true for people who do gym workouts regularly and need that added protein for their intense workouts or exercise routines. This can aid in muscle recovery and speed up muscle development.

Bottom Line

Vega Protein and Greens Powder is a great product for people who want to meet their daily protein goals met and to supplement their healthy diet with green powders. It offers a healthy and flavorful supplement that customers approve of and generally like.

Recycled Paper Towels: is It Possible?

Paper Towels: An Important Piece of Item

It is hard to argue against the usefulness of paper towels. Compared to other products made from wood pulp, paper towels are considered one of the most (if not the most) useful ones. It trumps out even the Post-It-Note which can’t be used to filter out coffee. But being too useful can also have downsides especially for the humble paper towel. This is particularly true since they can be used for many different unintended tasks. This usefulness and flexibility of use results in a ton of waste. Studies show that waste from the said product accounts for around twenty to forty percent of the waste coming from facilities such as dormitories or buildings. 

With such a dilemma facing the paper towel, we look at whether or not paper towels can be recycled and what alternatives we have in being more eco-friendly in handling our Used paper towels. Read on to find out more.

Paper Towel Recycling: Why is it even Considered?

Landfills get piles of used paper towels daily and this is no longer surprising. Most recycling programs exclude paper towels since these products are already produced using mostly recycled materials. Also, paper towels have fibers in them that are too short to even be used in other paper products. There are several other options though and certain programs for sustainability have started diverting used paper towels from piling up at landfills. Some of these options or alternatives will be discussed later on. But can paper towels be recycled and is it even advisable to recycle them?

The Problem with Recycled Paper Towels: Bacteria

Recycled Paper Towels, aside from having short fibers that are no longer usable for any other paper products, are mostly contaminated with dangerous microorganisms such as bacteria. Studies showed that most major paper towel brands commonly used in public bathrooms to dry hands had significant bacteria present in them. In short, the most number of bacteria were present in recycled paper towels compared to their virgin wood counterparts and should not be considered for recycling. 

This can be accounted to the fact that recycled paper mills have to deal with bacterial slime issues. There is also evidence to suggest that recycled paper has increased levels of bacterial presence due to its being a prime bacterial breeding environment. Recycled paper towels are an ideal bacterial environment due to its use of starches serving as binding agents which also double as food for these microorganisms.

Based on available data, it was found the Bacillus was the most common bacterial strain found and this is a form of bacteria usually linked with food poisoning. Other bacterial strains identified to be present in Recycled Paper Towels include clostridium, exiguobacterium, and Paenibacullus. However, it must be noted that during the studies conducted on these paper towels, no bacteria became airborne or caused any illness or disease.  

Food safety experts recommend that paper towels be used since they have reduced risk for cross-contamination. These should, however, be thrown away after usage, unlike cloth towels and sponges which can be reused numerous times and at the same time be another prime breeding environment for bacteria. The experts also noted that the bacteria present in these Recycled paper towels may be dangerous for young children, infants, those with medical conditions, weakened immune systems, and the elderly but that they will rarely (if at all) adversely affect healthy individuals.

Options for Recycled Paper Towels

Paper towels simply cannot be recycled compared to other products made from paper. This is especially true since paper towels that are recycled can result in concerns about food waste and the proliferation of bacteria. While paper towels cannot be directly recycled, there are several options that individuals can observe to their part and one is to reuse or reduce the use of these paper towels. 

Reducing the use of these paper towels will usually entail individuals shirting to a dishcloth or old-fashioned sponge when cleaning up spills in the kitchen. Both sponge and dishcloths can be utilized over and over. To clean windows, individuals can also turn to newspapers that are crumpled. Instead of throwing away paper towels that are used in the trash bin, they can also be tossed in a compost container along with scraps of fruits, filters, and coffee grounds, and some eggshells.

Below are some of the detailed options for recycling these paper towels:

  • Composting- Using a compost bin such as wooden crates, metal pails, or plastic containers, have all the material to be composted if they are three inches or longer before adding a half-foot of organic brown layers such as dead leaves, twigs, and branches. On top of this brown layer, an additional layer of green materials about 4 to six inches may also be added. These green materials include paper towels, tea bags, coffee filters, and scraps of veggies. The layers should then be moistened with water before being covered in regular dirt in small amounts. Add water and more layers as required, with brown and green layers being alternately used to come up with equal levels of nitrogen and carbon. To help pile up the heat, use a garden tool to turn the compost weekly.
  • Waste Collection Service- The first step in doing this is to contact the government office of your locality if there is a food collection or yard waste program within the neighborhood. Check if the program also comes with specific bins and while these may not be free of charge, some local government offices offer discounts. It is important to identify which container is ideal for the household’s specific situation. Individuals can use 100% trash bags that are compostable or paper bags which can then be recycled with used paper towels.

Bottom Line

While paper towels should no longer be directly recycled, it can be subjected to other forms of recycling options such as waste collection services from the government and through good old fashioned composting.