A few weeks ago, I was asked if I would be willing to sample Dole's newest fruit in a cup. I was honest in saying that our family does not purchase fruit cups so I couldn't really give much of a comparison. We prefer to offer our children fresh fruit as much as possible or sometimes even dried fruits if we're packing a snack. Hence my hesitation. When the package arrived, there was an obvious natural, eco-friendly theme to it.

I was really excited to have a new water bottle since my glass water bottle broke. I was carrying it without the lid properly secured. It shattered. My heart sank. This new water bottle is made by Gaiam using stainless steel that is 100% recyclable and BPA free. The package also came with this really cool Go Green Lunch Box that is lead- and leach-free with five compartments and a stainless steel bottle. The Steeltainer is a really cute leak-proof container which will be used a lot in our home.


Then, of course, there were also four packages of Dole Fruit 'n Crisp with two cups per package. We were able to try three flavours: Apple Cinnamon, Peach and Apple Pear. I really liked the Apple Cinnamon the best and my daughter has a strong preference for Apple Pear. My 3-year-old son, on the other hand, hasn't really tried more than a spoon or two. I just don't think he likes the texture.


Each Dole Fruit 'n Crisp comes with two cups, one containing fruit that has been slow baked in natural juices and spices, and another one containing whole grain oats and brown sugar, which you just open and pour over the fruit. Now, you know I love sugar since it makes anything taste good, but when it comes to my kids, it's a whole different story. I'm pretty sure the Fruit 'n Crisp would be just as tasty without the added sugar. One container (113 g) contains 20 g of sugars which isn't all that bad considering most of it probably comes from the fruit itself, I'm guessing. It's also rich in vitamin C, providing 40% of your daily value.

For those who are always on the go, you'll be happy to know you don't have to store it in the fridge, unless it has already been opened. You can also microwave the fruit for about 30 seconds before adding the topping, which I think would make for an entirely different snacking experience. I wouldn't know since we don't own a microwave. Another thing that I like about Dole Fruit 'n Crisp is that it fits nicely into my new lunch bag, which we packed on an outing to Kensington Market the other day.


Take note that Dole Fruit 'n Crisp contains wheat and soy, and the topping is manufactured in a facility that handles milk, eggs, peanuts and tree nuts. This means I can't put it in my daughter's lunch to have at school. Will I make a point of buying it in the future? That would be unlikely, unless it's the healthiest option at a concession stand, for example. In any case, if you're interested in reading another mom blogger's opinion, check out Listen to Lena! She also has a link to a coupon that will save you $1.25 on any Dole Fruit 'n Crisp product.

Disclosure: I was sent a product from Dole and Matchstick to help facilitate this review. All opinions expressed in this post are my own.