Enjoy Life Chocolate Chips- A Paleo-Compliant Treat for the Sweet Tooth Enthusiast
Are Enjoy Life chocolate chips paleo? This question is often asked by those following the paleo diet, a lifestyle that focuses on eating foods that our ancestors would have consumed during the Paleolithic era. As more people turn to this diet for health and wellness reasons, the demand for paleo-friendly snacks has increased. Enjoy Life chocolate chips have gained popularity for their allergen-free and organic ingredients, but are they truly suitable for paleo followers?
Enjoy Life chocolate chips are made with non-GMO, organic ingredients and are free from common allergens such as peanuts, tree nuts, wheat, dairy, soy, and eggs. This makes them a great option for those with dietary restrictions. However, the key to determining if these chocolate chips are paleo-friendly lies in their ingredient list.
Enjoy Life chocolate chips are made with organic coconut sugar, cocoa butter, and cocoa powder. While coconut sugar is a natural sweetener and can be considered paleo-friendly, the process of extracting it from the coconut palm may involve the use of chemicals. This is a concern for some paleo followers who prefer to avoid processed foods. On the other hand, cocoa butter and cocoa powder are naturally derived from the cocoa bean and are considered paleo-friendly.
One important aspect to consider when evaluating if Enjoy Life chocolate chips are paleo is the use of palm oil. Palm oil is a common ingredient in many chocolate products and can be a source of controversy. Some argue that palm oil production is associated with deforestation and habitat destruction, which is not in line with the principles of the paleo diet. Enjoy Life chocolate chips do contain palm oil, but the company has made efforts to source their palm oil from sustainable sources. This is a positive step for those who are concerned about the environmental impact of their food choices.
Another factor to consider is the addition of lecithin, which is often derived from soy. While Enjoy Life offers a soy-free option, the lecithin used in their chocolate chips is derived from sunflower seeds. This makes their chocolate chips suitable for those with soy allergies, but it is still important to check the ingredient list if you are strictly following a paleo diet.
In conclusion, while Enjoy Life chocolate chips may not be perfect for everyone following the paleo diet, they do offer a more natural and allergen-free alternative compared to many other chocolate chip options. The use of organic ingredients, sustainable palm oil, and soy-free lecithin make them a viable choice for those who are willing to make some compromises. As always, it is best to read the ingredient list and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns about whether Enjoy Life chocolate chips are right for you.
