Kamil Perry
Keebler Cheese and Peanut Butter Crackers are a popular snack choice, but are they healthy? These crackers contain ingredients like enriched flour, vegetable oil, sugar, and whey. While they offer convenience and taste, there are concerns about additives, allergens, and the potential presence of antibiotics or growth promoters in the cheese and milk ingredients. With 190 calories per serving, these crackers may be suitable for occasional snacking but should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Calories | 190 |
| Saturated Fat | 1.5 g |
| Sodium | 330 mg |
| Sugar | 4 g |
| Serving Size | 39 g |
| Servings Per Container | 8 |
| Allergens | Wheat, Peanut, Milk, Soy |
| Additives | TBHQ, Disodium Phosphate, Yellow 6, Riboflavin |
| Antibiotics/Growth Promoters | Possibly in Cheese, Milk, Buttermilk, and Cheese Culture |
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What You'll Learn
Keebler crackers contain additives and antibiotics
Keebler Cheese and Peanut Butter crackers are a tasty snack with the right amount of sweetness. They are a convenient snack option and can be packed in backpacks or lunch boxes. Each six-cracker serving contains 190 calories and provides protein to fill you up. They contain zero trans fats and are low in saturated fats.
However, these crackers contain additives and possibly antibiotics. The additives include TBHQ, disodium phosphate, Yellow 6, enzymes, and riboflavin. TBHQ is listed as an additive of higher concern in food, while disodium phosphate is of moderate concern. Yellow 6, enzymes, and riboflavin are listed as additives of lower concern.
The crackers also contain ingredients derived from animals that may have been treated with antibiotics and/or growth promoters. These ingredients include cheddar cheese, milk, buttermilk, and cheese culture. While the presence of antibiotics in the final product is uncertain, it is listed as a concern by EWG Food Scores, which rates foods to help consumers shop smarter and eat healthier.
In addition to the additives and possible antibiotics, these crackers also contain common food allergens, including wheat, peanut, milk, and soy ingredients. It is always important to check the product packaging for current nutrition and ingredient information.
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Concerns about GE ingredients and allergens
Keebler Cheese and Peanut Butter crackers contain wheat, peanut, milk, and soybean ingredients, which are considered major food allergens according to the FDA. While over 160 food ingredients may cause allergic reactions, the FDA requires that eight major food allergens be labelled on products: milk, eggs, fish, crustacean shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, and soybeans.
Genetically engineered (GE) ingredients are found in a significant percentage of processed foods, with up to 92% of US corn, 94% of soybeans, and 94% of cotton genetically engineered. It is estimated that 75% of processed foods contain GE ingredients. The inclusion of GE ingredients in food products has raised concerns among consumers due to limited safety studies, the development of "superweeds", and increased pesticide use.
One concern regarding GE ingredients is the potential for increased allergenicity. Each genetic "cassette" being engineered into foods contains novel proteins, bacteria, viruses, promoters, marker systems, and vectors, which have never been part of the human diet. The introduction of these novel substances could trigger allergic responses in some consumers, as warned by FDA scientists. However, it is important to note that rigorous safety testing is recommended by national and international organizations, and only rare cases of potential immunologic reactions have been identified.
Another concern is the presence of "antibiotic resistance markers" in GE foods, which may render important antibiotics ineffective in fighting human diseases. For example, a genetically engineered maize plant includes an ampicillin-resistance gene, which could reduce the effectiveness of ampicillin in treating bacterial infections. The British Medical Association (BMA) has recommended banning the use of antibiotic resistance marker genes in GE foods due to the potential risk to human health.
Additionally, there are concerns about the potential health risks associated with the consumption of GE foods. A study conducted by Drs. Arpad Pusztai and Stanley W.B. Ewen found that rats consuming genetically altered potatoes showed detrimental effects on organ development, body metabolism, and immune function. Regulatory bodies in Canada and Europe have rejected the use of recombinant Bovine Growth Hormone (rBGH) in dairy cows due to animal and human health concerns. Research has also linked increased levels of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) in dairy products from rBGH-treated cows to the growth of breast and prostate cancer.
In conclusion, while Keebler Cheese and Peanut Butter crackers may contain allergens, the presence of GE ingredients in food products has raised concerns among consumers due to limited safety studies and potential health and environmental risks. Consumers have limited knowledge about the presence of GE ingredients in their food due to the lack of labelling and safety testing requirements by the FDA.
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Calories, fat, and nutritional value
Keebler Cheese and Peanut Butter crackers are marketed as a healthy snack option. Each six-cracker serving contains 190 calories and provides protein to fill you up. The crackers are also advertised as having zero trans fats and low saturated fat content.
The product contains a variety of ingredients, including enriched flour, vegetable oil, peanut butter, sugar, and dextrose. It also includes whey, cheddar cheese, and buttermilk, which may be derived from animals treated with antibiotics and/or growth promoters.
According to the FDA, the product contains common food allergens like wheat, peanut, milk, and soy ingredients. It also includes additives like TBHQ, disodium phosphate, and Yellow 6, which may be of concern to some consumers.
While the crackers are a convenient and tasty snack option, it's important to consider the overall nutritional value and the presence of potential allergens and additives when deciding if they align with your definition of healthy.
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How it compares to other crackers
Keebler Cheese and Peanut Butter crackers are a convenient snack option, offering a good balance of flavour and texture. They are light, buttery, and flaky, with a crunchy texture and a sweet taste. The crackers are made with enriched flour, vegetable oil, and peanut butter, and contain added sugar and salt.
When compared to other crackers, Keebler Cheese and Peanut Butter crackers have a similar nutritional profile. They are often compared to other cheese crackers, such as those offered by Ritz, and are considered to have a similar texture and taste. Keebler's crackers, however, have a unique flavour due to the orange filling, which is made from real peanut butter. This sets them apart from other cheese crackers, offering a slightly different taste and texture experience.
In terms of nutrition, these crackers are not a particularly healthy option, but they do have some positive attributes. Each serving provides protein and energy, and they are low in saturated fat, containing zero trans fats. However, they are also highly processed and contain additives, antibiotics, and growth promoters that may have been used in the animal-derived ingredients. These include cheese, milk, buttermilk, and cheese culture.
The crackers also contain common allergens, including wheat, peanut, milk, and soy ingredients, as well as a range of additives such as TBHQ, disodium phosphate, and Yellow 6. These additives are of varying levels of concern in food, with TBHQ being of higher concern, and Yellow 6 being of lower concern. Overall, while Keebler Cheese and Peanut Butter crackers may not be the healthiest option, they are a convenient and tasty snack, offering a good balance of flavour and texture when compared to other crackers on the market.
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The health benefits of the ingredients
Keebler Cheese and Peanut Butter crackers contain a variety of ingredients that offer several health benefits. Here is a detailed breakdown of the health benefits provided by each of the main ingredients:
Cheese:
Cheese is a good source of calcium and protein, which are essential for building strong bones and muscles. It also contains vitamins A, D, K, and zinc, which contribute to overall bone health. The dairy fats in cheese contain conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), which may help reduce inflammation and potentially lower the risk of heart disease and obesity. Additionally, the high levels of calcium in cheese can help reduce blood pressure. However, it's important to consume cheese in moderation due to its saturated fat and sodium content.
Peanut Butter:
Peanut butter is a rich source of protein, healthy fats, and various nutrients, including iron, magnesium, and vitamins B6 and E. It has been linked to improved heart health, as it can help lower LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, which are risk factors for heart disease. Peanut butter may also aid in weight management and regulate blood sugar levels. The polyunsaturated fats in peanut butter, such as omega-3s, can reduce the risk of arrhythmia and potentially lower blood pressure. However, it's important to consume peanut butter in moderation due to its high-calorie content and the risk of allergies.
Crackers:
Whole-wheat crackers or those made from quinoa, brown rice, or whole grains are rich in fiber and provide a balanced mix of carbohydrates, healthy fats, and protein. They can be a nutritious and filling snack option, especially when paired with high-protein toppings like cheese or nut butter. When choosing crackers, look for brands with minimal additives and at least 2 grams of fiber per serving to maximize their nutritional value.
Overall Health Benefits:
Keebler Cheese and Peanut Butter crackers combine the nutritional benefits of each ingredient. The cheese provides calcium and protein for bone and muscle health, while the peanut butter contributes healthy fats and protein for improved heart health and weight management. The crackers add fiber and carbohydrates to create a satisfying snack. However, it's important to be mindful of portion sizes and consume these crackers as part of a balanced diet, as they may contain additives and higher levels of sodium or saturated fat.
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Frequently asked questions
Keebler cheese and peanut butter crackers contain zero trans fats and are low in saturated fats. They are also a good source of protein and are only 190 calories per serving. However, they contain additives such as TBHQ, disodium phosphate, and Yellow 6, which may be of concern. They also contain ingredients derived from animals that may have been treated with antibiotics and growth promoters.
The ingredients include enriched flour, vegetable oil, peanut butter (roasted peanuts), sugar, dextrose, salt, leavening, whey, and cheddar cheese.
These crackers contain wheat, peanut, milk, and soy ingredients, which are considered major food allergens by the FDA.
