We like to say that snacktime is your time– an opportunity to pause and enjoy the simple act of eating something you love. That’s why we focus on making the tastiest snacks we can. But we also think that snacks can have a bigger role in our daily lives that goes beyond tastiness. It’s important to us that our snacks are both delicious and functional.
What is functional snacking? It’s snacking that does more for your body by providing extra nutrition between meals. That can mean snacks that are sources of vitamins, fiber, protein, good fats, probiotics…anything that provides real, measurable benefits in addition to calories.
We select ingredients for our snacks by their quality, flavor, and function. If you’d like to learn more about where we source our ingredients, check out this blog. For more info on the functions of our most frequently used ingredients, read on!
Popcorn
What is it?
A special variety of corn…the kind that pops! (Regular corn stands up straight. Popping corn has floppy tassels.)
Functional fact
Popcorn has been called the King of Snacks. It’s one of the world’s best sources of fiber, packed with antioxidants, and gives us tons of essential nutrients.
History
Traces of popcorn have been found in 1000-year old Peruvian tombs.
Did you know…
In summer 2010, a Kentucky farmer’s crops started partially popping in the field due to high heat and irregular rainfall!
Cassava
What is it?
A starchy root vegetable native to South America. Also sometimes known as yuca, manioc, or Brazilian arrowroot.
Functional fact
It’s a great energy source, high in resistant starch, and it’s grain- and gluten-free, making it great for anyone with dietary restrictions.
History
Archeological research first found evidence of cassava dating from 4600 BC in modern-day Mexico.
Did you know…
Cassava is one of the world’s most drought-tolerant crops, able to survive in areas of little rain.
Egg whites
What are they?
The clear liquid that forms around the yolk of an egg.
Functional fact
They contain about 56% of all the protein in an egg, but they’re extremely low in cholesterol and fat.
History
Eggs have been used for millennia, and for more than just eating. In the 18th century, egg whites were used in the bookbinding process to make covers shiny.
Did you know…
Fluffy and foamy when whipped, egg whites are a critical ingredient in meringues, souffles, mousses, and much more!
Coconut oil
What is it?
Our extra virgin coconut oil is made by pressing fresh coconut meat to remove the oil.
Functional fact
Coconut oil reduces hunger which can help keep weight balanced, and early studies show potential for boosting brain function through ketones.
History
It’s been used for millennia as both food and as folk medicine in tropical regions where coconut palms grow, including the Philippines (which is where we source ours).
Did you know…
Coconut oil is often used as a moisturizer for dry skin or hair!
Avocado oil
What is it?
The oil extracted from the avocado fruit, which is ground to a paste (pit removed, of course) and pressed. The flesh of an avocado can contain up to 30% oil.
Functional fact
Like extra virgin olive oil, avocado oil contains lots of heart-healthy oleic acid, as well as high levels of the antioxidant lutein.
History
Avocados have been cultivated as early as 5000 BC in Mesoamerica. The Spanish who first encountered them called them “alligator pears” for their rough skin.
Did you know…
Avocado oil has been studied for its capability in treating skin injuries and has been found to promote faster healing of wounds.
Ghee
What is it?
Ghee is clarified butter– a nutty, aromatic butter that has been simmered and strained to remove all water.
Functional fact
It contains higher amounts of Vitamins A and E than regular butter. It’s also lactose-free, making it a better choice for those with sensitivity.
History
Ghee has been used in Indian and Pakistani cooking for thousands of years, and it’s still more commonly used there than it is in America.
Did you know…
Ghee can withstand heat up to 485°F, making it better than regular butter for cooking at high temperatures.
Himalayan pink salt
What is it?
A naturally pink form of rock salt mined near the Himalayas in Pakistan.
Functional fact
Salt is a vital part of our diets that balances bodily fluids, maintains healthy blood pressure, and aids in nerve and muscle function. Unlike regular table salt, Himalayan pink is unrefined and contains no iodine.
History
Himalayan salt is harvested from the Khewra Salt Mine, believed to have been formed millions of years ago by the evaporation of ancient bodies of water.
Did you know…
Himalayan salt contains dozens of minerals, including iron, which give it its pink color.
