Have you been having cravings for potato chips, but aren’t sure if they’re cross-contaminated?  If so, your days of worrying are over!  Good Health Natural Foods, Inc. has come out with several lines of chips that have been tested, certified gluten-free, and are produced in a gluten-free facility. Once I heard about these new chips on the market, I had to get my hands on them.

Francois Bogrand, a French ex-patriot who had emigrated to the U.S., founded Good Health Natural Foods, Inc. in 1992.  Bogrand was initially interested in bringing French food products to the States, and in doing so, he realized the health food market industry had room for exploration.  In 2000, Good Health Natural Foods introduced their first potato chip cooked solely in olive oil, and following that they released a body care line.  In 2004, they began introducing chips cooked in avocado oil.  Milestone Partners, a Philadelphia-based group, bought the company in 2004 and continues to maintain its integrity in the health food industry.

I can’t say enough about how well their website is organized and was impressed with its fully detailed information about allergens, nutrition, and ingredients.  It made me feel comfortable sampling and reviewing their products.  Of their line of 12 gluten-free products, eight of them are gluten-free and manufactured in a gluten-free facility, and four do not contain gluten ingredients, but have the potential for cross-contamination.  I sampled three of their products, which are all processed in gluten-free and nut-free facilities – Avocado Oil Potato Chips Sea Salt, Glories Sweet Potato Chips Original and Avocado Oil Potato Chips Barcelona Barbecue.

I got a group of gluten-eating friends together to do a bit of sampling.  I would say that of the three, the top choice was the Avocado Oil Potato Chips with Sea Salt.  We agreed that the crunch was super satisfying and the medium thickness of the chips allowed them to hold together with every bite.  We couldn’t just stop eating after one chip and proceeded to devour the bag.  I personally liked that they were a bit oily, especially since I knew the oil was such a healthy one; it added a bit of authenticity.  The chips just had that all-American potato chip flavor.  According to Good Health Natural Foods website, these chips contain 30% less fat than traditionally cooked chips.

We found multiple uses for the Avocado Oil Potato Chips. We thought you might try them:

• Dipped in a sour cream and onion dip or in a gluten-free ranch dressing (though some of us felt they were just really good on their own)
• Crushed and use to bread fish
• Added to a gluten-free sandwich
• Used instead of croutons on a salad
• Just eaten alongside a hearty gluten-free sandwich

The next chips we tasted were Glories Sweet Potato Original, which certainly have a lot going for them.  They have no trans fats, are low sodium, GMO free, and gluten-free.  Upon first bite, we found them not greasy, with a pleasantly sweet, fresh, healthy taste to them (and not a salty one).  The crunch to these chips was quite hearty.  They grew on us as we ate them, and by the time we were done, so were the chips!

As we continued to eat the bag, we noticed the chips in the bottom were quite a bit saltier, so it appeared as though the seasoning was not evenly distributed.  We recommend gently shaking the bag before consumption.  We also thought they might go well dipped in hummus.

The last chip we tasted was the Avocado Oil Potato Chip, Barcelona Barbecue style.  We thought these to have the best crunch of the lot and had a heavy garlicky flavor, which is great if you like garlic.  We found the chips with the most flavor to reside in the bottom of the bag, so we would again recommend gently shaking them up before eating.  Though we still ate them all, the consensus was that these chips needed a bit more spice to give them a true BBQ kick.

All in all, we still enjoyed our experience, and I was tickled pink to find gluten-free chips that I could eat and keep eating!  I want to thank the team at Good Health Natural Foods, Inc. for sending me their samples and allowing me to review their products.  I can’t wait to go eat my gluten-free sandwich and chips now!

-Annsley Klehr
Owner, Gluten Freedoms, LLC

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I got a sneak preview of the egg rolls at Natural Products Expo East last September. Feel Good Foods is a member of NFCA’s GREAT Business Association, so I stopped by to ask Vanessa and Tryg what was new. At this point, I had already spent a few hours browsing and sampling, and my stomach was ready for a break. Yet, when I smelled the Gluten-Free Egg Rolls, I couldn’t resist trying one.

The egg rolls could easily rival their Chinese takeout counterparts. They were crispy and crunchy on the outside, with that warm combination of cabbage, carrots and ginger on the inside. Pair them with a gluten-free dipping sauce (Thai Kitchen Pineapple & Chili Dipping Sauce works great), and you’re good to go.

I haven’t had a chance to cook them yet, but given my success with the Gluten-Free Dumplings, I think Gluten-Free Egg Rolls will be a cinch. I’ve also heard that they’re microwaveable, for all you non-cooks.

Feel Good Foods Gluten-Free Egg Rolls are beginning to hit store shelves. Look for them at your local Whole Foods Market and specialty food stores. For more information, visit Feel Good Foods online.

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Have you ever dug around in the bottom of the popcorn bowl for those half-popped kernels?  If so, your digging days are done!  Meet Halfpops, an air-popped kernel that is naturally gluten-free and nut-free.  It’s produced in a dedicated facility and certified gluten-free!  According to their website, Halfpops also has zero grams of trans fat, no corn syrup, no artificial flavors, no hydrogenated oils, no preservatives, and no negativity.  It’s the perfect grab-and-go treat.

Since I am always keeping an eye out for new gluten-free products, I spied Halfpops while reading Triumph Dining’s blog. I then decided to call the company and talk to the co-owner, Kevin Meagher.  Kevin and his co-founder Mike Fitzgerald, a former racecar driver, began as soccer league buddies.  Mike, after acquiring the patent for this product, would spend his spare time trying to perfect a half-popped kernel in his kitchen for the next 2 years.  He invited Kevin over to sample his product, and together they created Halfpops, LLC.  The two partners do all their own popping and bagging.

It was great fun to catch up with Kevin on the phone, but once my friend and I started sampling Halfpops, we realized the fun had just begun.  The two flavors on the market are: Natural Butter & Pure Ocean Sea Salt and Natural Aged White Cheddar.  Both flavors lent themselves to that satisfying crunch with a subtle punch of flavor.  Though reminiscent of CornNuts, Halfpops are healthier and more delectable with a gentler but BIG crunch.  For those who crave the bottom of the bowl kernels, these are as good as it gets.  They are completely addicting and healthy for snacking.  Even the dog couldn’t get enough of the Halfpops that fell to the floor!

The butter and salt flavor had a light, salty flavor and buttery aftertaste, while the aged cheddar had a subtle cheesy flavor.  Both are equally enjoyable, depending on the kind of mood you’re in.  As for me who loves cheese on everything, I prefer the natural aged white cheddar.  It’s a snack the whole family can enjoy!

We thought to try Halfpops in other recipes and venues, so here are a few ideas:

• As a substitute for popcorn in the movie theater
• In addition to gluten-free Rice Krispies or as a substitute in Rice Krispies Treats
• Add them to a party mix or trail mix (as seen in the picture)
• Try a Halfpop brittle instead of a peanut brittle
• Sprinkle them on an ice cream sundae
• Sprinkle them on top of green beans instead of almonds for a crunchy addition
• Top a 7-layer bean dip with Halfpops
• Eat Halfpops with gluten-free beer at the bar
• Make them into popcorn balls

As of now, the only downfall is that Halfpops are only available on the West Coast, but you can order them online.

A special thanks to Halfpops for kindly sending us samples and allowing us to review their fantastic product!

-Annsley Klehr
Gluten Freedoms, LLC

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The tortilla chips, which come in six flavors, are made using a process known as “sprouting.” Basically, they let the seeds germinate before they add them to the chip. The sprouted chia seeds, broccoli seeds, quinoa seeds, etc. add nutritional benefits like more vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Sprouting also promotes good digestion and nutrient absorption. You can learn more about it on the company’s website: Sprouting: The Difference.

With all those nutrients, you’d wonder if some flavor would be compromised. Not the case. These chips are addictively good, and the perfect size and shape for dipping (they’re just as good solo, too).

Here’s the rundown:

Multi-Grain: These are the closest to a standard tortilla chip. Salty, cruchy and hearty without having an overwhelming flavor one way or the other.  Great for taco dip.

Sweeet Potato (Yes, that’s three e’s): These were my favorite of the lot. I’ve had sweet potato chips before that tasted barely like sweet potatoes, but these left no questions asked. A nice dusting of salt makes them perfectly snackable. I’ll be honest – I ate them straight out of the bag. No dips or pairings needed.

Sweet Chili: This flavor is for the spice fans. There is a good bit of heat – the kind that tickles your throat as you continue to munch. Have a glass of water handy so you can enjoy these without interruption.

Black Bean: I don’t know what it is about black beans that make them tasty so meaty, but these chips fall along that line. They’re surprisingly filling, yet still delicious. Use them to finish off a bowl of turkey or vegetarian chili.

Unbeatable Blues: These are comparable to blue corn tortilla chips currently on shelves. They’re versatile enough for many dips or dishes, but look more intriguing than the classic yellow or white corn chip.

Naked Blues: These are a no-salt version of the Unbeatable Blues. Personally, I missed the salt. The chips tasted a little drab, but nothing that fresh guacamole or fruit salsa couldn’t liven up. If you’re monitoring your salt intake, this is a great option. If not, the other flavors are worth the extra sodium.

Way Better Snacks are available in grocery stores across the country, including Wegmans and Fairway. They will be available in Whole Foods Market starting in January. You can also order them online.

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NoGii Bars

Each bar starts with soy protein crisps, then is tailored to meet each group’s tastes:

• NoGii Kids mixes the crisps with marshmallow creme, so it mimics another beloved marshmallow treat. This one, however, contains 8g of protein and Omega-3s to keep kids strong and healthy.
• NoGii High Protein ditches the marshmallow and brings in chocolate and peanut butter for a slightly indulgent meal on the go. The bar contains 230 calories and a whopping 20g of protein, so it’s a good pick-me-up when a real lunch is out of reach.
• NoGii Super Protein adds caramel and a chocolate coating. Each bar sets you back 390 calories but also loads you up on 30g of protein. If you plan on eating one in a single sitting, don’t make it after you’ve already had a full meal.

I received samples of NoGii High Protein and NoGii Super Protein. Placed next to each other, the bars made it quite obvious who they were for. High Protein was slim and portable, with a white and silver wrapper featuring Elisabeth on the front. Super Protein was a massive, hulking bar, with a black wrapper, orange writing, and tire treads on the box.

Nevertheless, I tried both.

The bars were very similar in flavor and texture, save for the gooey caramel and extra layer of chocolate on the Super Protein bar, which made it taste almost like a Twix Bar. They were very soft and chewy, which makes them easy to eat on the go (no crumbly bits to fall mid-bite).  I could have used a few carefully placed pieces of dried fruit to brighten some of the heavier flavors. At the same time, if I’m using it as a meal replacement bar, it’s got the heft I need to feel like I ate something substantial.

NoGii bars are certified gluten-free and available in stores across the U.S. Learn more at NoGii.com.

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If you have been on CeliacCentral.org lately, you may have noticed a banner that looks like this:

Click on it and you’ll arrive at NFCA’s Gluten-Free Holiday Central, a microsite filled with gluten-free recipes and advice to help you through the holidays. Since Nov. 16, we’ve also been running our Gluten-Free Holiday How-Tos, which include our Gluten-Free Holiday Tip of the Day and special blog posts and exclusive tips from four of our gluten-free blogger friends.

So far, we learned “How to Survive Your First Gluten-Free Holiday” from Shirley Braden of gluten free easily, and Silvana Nardone of Silvana’s Kitchen and Easy Eats taught us “How to Host a Gluten-Free Holiday Your Kids Will Love.” This week, Rachel Begun, RD, explained “How to Fit a Fruit or Vegetable in Every Gluten-Free Holiday Dish.” Next week, we’ll feature our capstone on “How to Keep Your Gluten-Free Holiday Low Fuss and Low Cost,” with Carol Kicinski of Simply…Gluten-Free.

Now, getting some pearls of wisdom from these ladies is a gift in itself, but we wanted to sweeten the deal by offering up some giveaways. Our friends at Crunchmaster were more than happy to oblige and gave us enough loot for 5 giveaways: 4 weekly prizes consisting of $40 worth of Crunchmaster crackers, and 1 Grand Prize of $100 cash + $40 worth of Crunchmaster crackers.

We’ve already given away 2 weekly prizes, but there’s still plenty of time to enter the remaining giveaways. Here’s how:

Enter the weekly giveaways by signing up for each of the remaining Gluten-Free Holiday How-Tos eblasts:

• Gluten-Free Holiday How-Tos Eblast featuring tips from Rachel Begun, RD (Deadline to enter: Dec. 9 at 12 noon ET)
• Gluten-Free Holiday How-Tos Eblast featuring tips from Carol Kicinski (Deadline to enter: Dec. 16 at 12 noon ET)

By entering the weekly giveaways, you’ll automatically be entered to win the Grand Prize. Winners will be notified via email.

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To learn more about all of Food Should Taste Good products visit www.foodshouldtastegood.com. While you’re there check out how you can help Food Should Taste Good raise money to fight breast cancer.

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It may be tough to peel your child away from their favorite gluten-free candy, but by offering some creative and healthy Halloween treats, you can help your child maintain a balanced and nutritious diet. Here are some ideas:

Set a good example

It’s hard to tell your child to take it easy on the candy when you’re handing out the sweet stuff. Opt for mini bags of gluten-free snacks like Froose Gummies, which offer a good source of fiber, or Kay’s Naturals, which are packed with protein. Bags of microwave popcorn are another healthy and gluten-free option (just don’t buy the ones loaded with butter!)

You can also go the non-food route and hand out things like glow sticks or festive erasers, as one parent noted.

Play with your food

You eat with your eyes first, so make it a festive scene. Try making a Taco Dip Dragon or Haunted Forest Platter  to entice your child with some real food. Remember to make the necessary swaps to ensure it’s gluten-free. (Peel a zucchini into strips to replace the spaghetti!).

Pump up dessert

Give brownies a healthy boost by making them with pumpkin puree. Best of all, you can still use a gluten-free box mix! Get the recipe for Gluten-Free Pumpkin Brownies. If you’re not a fan of pumpkin, try mixing in applesauce or black beans instead.

Repurpose your sweets

Candy doesn’t have to be enjoyed straight out of the wrapper. Crumble a peanut butter cup over low fat yogurt, or melt a chocolate bar and drizzle it over some sliced apples. The kids will still be eating sweets, but they’ll be part of a “better for you” treat. Plus, it’s a chance for your gluten-free child to help in the kitchen.

For a list of Gluten-Free Candy, visit CeliacCentral.org.

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Playing it safe means opting for raw or unseasoned nuts. While very healthy, that also can get boring.

Enter Sahale Snacks, a variety of gourmet and glazed nuts – all made in a facility that’s certified gluten-free. The flavors can be sweet, salty, savory or spicy, depending on which bag you grab. Here are the flavors we tried:

• Honey Almonds: These hit the sweet tooth with a glazed, candy-like coating, but are filling enough that you don’t overindulge. The addition of dried mini cranberries is a smart touch, as they’re well-distributed and have a chewy factor to offset the hard crunch from almonds. My favorite part, however, were the sesame seeds that studded each almond, which added even more flavor and texture.
• Barbeque Almonds: These almonds have the smokiness and tang classic to barbeque flavors, so they’re a good option for BBQ chip fans. Like good barbeque, you’ll need to do some finger licking after snacking on these.
• Southwest Cashews: After trying so many almonds, the soft crunch of these cashews really showed through. The big bite, however, is in the spice. Take a few at a time and you’ll have a good zing; take too big a handful and you’ll get an eye-popping kick.
• Tuscan Almonds: These are a true savory snack. Coated in parmesan and herbs, the flavor is not for the weak. Great for munching, but they have even more potential for topping salad or grinding up for an aromatic breading.

The most surprising thing about these nuts? The random places I’ve spotted them. Like at the airport (which makes sense since the resealable packs are oh-so-portable). If you haven’t seen them in your travels, visit www.sahalesnacks.com and check the product locator.

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