Gluten Free Cookies: Andean Dream Orange-Cocoa Quinoa Cookies

Gluten Free Cookies: Andean Dream Orange-Cocoa Quinoa Cookies

PRODUCT NAME:                      Cocoa-Orange Quinoa Cookie

BRAND:                                     Andean Dream

COST:                                       $5.99

SIZE:                                         7oz (Net Weight)

COST PER OZ:                          $0.86

CERTIFIED GLUTEN FREE:        NO

CERTIFICATION AGENCY:         N/A

ORGANIC:                                 NO

CERTIFICATION AGENCY:         N/A

VEGAN:                                     YES

GLUTEN FREE FACILITY:           NO

LOCATION OF FACILITY:           Bolivia

SHELF LIFE:                              1 Year

*These statements are based on the information printed on the product packaging.  We cannot verify the accuracy of this information.  For verification of the statements above, please contact the manufacturer.   

         

REVIEW:

Nutrition Facts and Ingredients

Andean Dream has conjured up a fantastic, healthy alternative snack in their line of quinoa-based cookies.  Quinoa [Chenopodium quinoa willd] is a grain originating in the Andean region of South America. Quinoa grains are known for harboring essential amino acids such as lysine and have great amounts of iron and calcium.  These specific cookies are made with organic Royal Quinoa—grown in the Bolivian Andes at an altitude of 13,000 feet which in turn produces the very best quality of quinoa in the world.

Ingrid Hirstin Laazcano, a businesswoman from Los Angeles, is the founder and CEO of Andean Dream. Laazcano was inspired to start the company after working on a public relations campaign in 2005 for a research scientist and author that specialized in alkaline-rich foods (such as quinoa) and their benefits in improving health.  Fascinated by the research, she began to eat the grain on a regular basis and discovered that it significantly elevated her energy and sense of well-being. This lead her to create a line of products that would promote this amazing super food to U.S. consumers.

In addition to the quinoa grain, these cookies advertise that they are wheat and soy free, contain no dairy products or Trans fats, and are made in a nut free facility which makes this completely safe for people with nut allergies.  The Royal Quinoa used in the cookies is also purchased from indigenous farming groups at fair trade prices which supply positive economic welfare for the families.

Overall, I enjoyed the cocoa-orange. There is just the right amount of both flavors that don’t make it super sweet, as it would be tricky with a chocolate and citrus combination. The quinoa grain seems to balance out the strong flavors and provide a great balance that is enjoyable for the person who does not normally enjoy orange in snack products (like me). I love that they are individually wrapped and are convenient for people who are on the go.

Taste:  I was hesitant to try the coca-orange flavor, but I was greatly surprised upon first bite. The mixture of chocolate and orange are quite complementary and the cookie itself just melts in your mouth. The orange flavor is prominent but not too strong, and I like that the chocolate was not excessively sweet as well. There is just the right amount of flavor coming from both the chocolate and the orange that make it a tasty, yet light combination.  Great snack for on the go or even in bag lunches as they are individually-wrapped and can be a healthy alternative snack for quick satiation. 

Labeling:  Simple, nutritional facts displayed on the right side of the box. The design and logo of the box is very colorful and earthy.

Packaging:  one box of individually-wrapped, snack sized cookies. Each box states that two cookies are equal to one serving, with a total of six servings in each box. 

Reader’s Reviews: Please share with us your review of this company’s other products + where you purchased the product + how long you have been using this product. Please no review from the family + friends of the company producing the product…

RATING:

Texture:                 4                             

Taste:                     4                             

Value:                    3             

OVERALL:              3.7         

Reviewed by

Allison R.