I’ve never really been crazy about granola until one day, a few years ago when someone taught me to make my own homemade granola. From then on I was hooked and although I still enjoy making my own granola now and then, time constraints have made it a bit difficult to take the time out to make it from scratch. I do enjoy granola more often now and I have found that certain store-bought ones are just as good if not better than homemade, mainly because of the assortment of flavors offered. But I’m also extra choosy on what goes inside store-bought granola as I’m very cautious of those made with too much added sugar.
When Van’s Foods (http://www.vansfoods.com/) introduced me to their newest granola, I was very intrigued. Their granola is a softer and chewier version than the typical crunchy granola you might be used to. Made with only whole grain oats, not only are Van’s Foods granola healthier, but they are also gluten-free so they’re perfect for those who are sensitive to gluten. And because they are made with whole grains, you get a more satisfying and wholesome snack that can be versatile and easy to digest. I personally enjoy granola with milk or over yogurt, but with this new chewy texture, they’re perfect straight out of the bag.
Van’s Foods are known for their wholesome and natural pancakes and waffles but have expanded their line to include wholegrain cereal, multigrain chips, crackers, snack bars, and their newest gluten-free pasta and gluten-free chewy granola. And because Van’s Foods makes delicious and natural foods for the busy family, they have recently revamped their tagline to be simply, “Van’s Simply Delicious” which is most befitting of a company who uses basic ingredients producing excellent results. We have enjoyed Van’s Foods for many years and my favorite is their Chocolate Chip mini waffles which has delectable little chocolate chips and perfect with melted butter and some whipped cream – yes whipped cream!
Van’s Foods had wanted me to try their new Gluten Free Blueberry Walnut Granola and Gluten Free Cherry Almond Granola. My favorite was the Cherry Almond Granola as it was very distinctive between the slight sour taste of the cherries with the natural sweetness of the mixed granola. I got a nice crunch from the pumpkin seeds but it was still soft and easy to chew. Both of them were unique in their own ways so whether you’re a cherry fan or a lover of blueberry, you’ll find that they are both different yet similar. I was also given their newest pasta dishes to try which included, Gluten Free Creamy Herb and Garlic Pasta, Gluten Free Rotini and Red Sauce Pasta, and Gluten Free Ultimate Cheddar Penne. I really enjoyed the Creamy Herb and Garlic Pasta and my son liked the Ultimate Cheddar Penne. They are all made with brown rice flour for the gluten-free part and I couldn’t really taste any difference from the gluten-free version and the regular wheat version. You just have to make sure not to overcook as it could get kind of sticky.
While in our household we don’t have a gluten sensitivity, I am trying to reduce the amount of it for the purpose of a healthier digestive system. With gluten-free products, I don’t feel as weighed down and I can enjoy my food without feeling as if I ate too much. But for those with a gluten sensitivity, avoiding it at all costs is important and it’s just as important to read your labels carefully before purchasing packaged food. With Van’s Foods and their gluten-free line, you can definitely enjoy the taste of regular snacks without the dangers of wheat gluten hidden somewhere in the ingredients.
Van’s Foods can be purchased at supermarkets that carry natural products as well as natural grocery stores. They come in a variety of frozen and dried food so it’s fairly easy to stock up on their products. For more information about Van’s Foods please visit their website: http://www.vansfoods.com as well as their social media sites which you can find links on their website.
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Please read the labels and ingredients carefully and follow all manufacturer’s instructions (if any). The products selected for the giveaway were generously donated by the companies/PR to help readers learn more about their products. The winner’s choice in using/consuming these products are entirely up to the winner and will not hold the author and her family liable nor the companies/PR liable. These products are made with non-toxic ingredients but always be safe with what you use and consume.
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