Sunday, March 1, 2009

Fig Newmans vs. Fig Newton: A comparison of two fig cookie treats

 


I have discovered another tasty organic treat from Paul Newman's line of organic foods called Fig Newmans.


  The fruit filled snack is Newman's organic version of Nabisco's Fig Newton.


  Fig Newmans are available in fat free, low fat and wheat free/dairy free flavors.


  So far I have tried the low fat version and unlike some low fat treats, the snack has flavor.


  The Fig Newman contains organic figs, organic unbleached wheat flour and organic sugar, while the Fig Newton contains enriched flour, figs, sugar, and of course high fructose corn syrup.


  A closer comparison of labels show that the snacks are somewhat equal in some categories.


  A serving of two Fig Newmans is said to contain 140 calories including 20 calories from fat. That breaks down to 70 calories per cookie with 10 calories from fat.


  A serving of two Fig Newtons is said to contain 110 calories including 20 calories from fat. That breaks down to 55 calories including 10 calories from fat which is actually better than the organic Fig Newman.


  However, Fig Newmans win in the protein category two grams to one.


  Fig Newtons even the score in the sodium category with each snack containing 125mg compared to 179mg in a Fig Newman.


  Both snacks are cholesterol free and trans fat free.


  For those looking for snacks containing no artificial flavors, Fig Newmans win as Fig Newtons contain sulfur dioxide which is added to preserve freshness.


  One downfall for the Newman snack is price. I paid $5.19 for a 12 oz. package where as Fig Newtons can usually be purchased anywhere from $2.50 a bag to $3.29.


  As for my vote, I like them both, but I have to say I find the taste of the Fig Newman a little more desirable and the organic ingredient list more attractive than the high fructose corn syrup and artificial flavoring of the Fig Newton.