Gel dessert Product Review

In our family, we have committed to avoiding artificial food coloring as much as is possible.  But, I'll be honest, I miss Jello, and so do a few of my children. It's such an easy treat to whip up, and perfect for sore throats.  One day, in the "natural" section of our grocery store, I saw "Jel Dessert" calling to me from the shelf! I purchased a box of strawberry flavor, and we tested it at home. 

Pros:  No artificial food coloring, gluten free, GMO free, kosher parve, and vegan!  (The vegan label is important to us simply because we know the product will be free from dairy and eggs!) The Strawberry Jel actually tasted like real strawberries!  There wasn't a chemical "fake" aftertaste. What an awesome bonus to give children fruit flavored dessert that actually tastes the fruit! There are only two steps to making the Jel, heat the water, stir in the powder. You can't get any simpler than that! The Jel also set very quickly, which is a plus when there are children anxiously waiting for it to be ready. 

Cons: No company phone number to contact, no website, no way to ask specific questions regarding allergens or manufacturing processes. There is an email for the distributor on the box, but no other contact information to be found on packaging or online.
Really, in this technological era, I can't imagine why this is! (If anyone can provided contact information, please share in the comments!) The only other con, which was a split vote in our house, is that the Jel dessert didn't set as firmly as it's artificial counterpart. Some preferred the softer texture and others wanted a firmer set. I am curious as to what would happen if I reduced the water, and I'll probably try that next time. 

Bottom Line: My 11 year old son, who is not usually a fan of gelatin desserts declared that this was "way better than regular Jello." The rest of the jury gave their thumbs up, and asked when we could have it again. We're all looking forward to trying the other flavors! I'll be stocking a few boxes in the pantry for special occasions and sore throats.

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 As always, from The Allergy Safe Kitchen, I wish you "Good Cooking, and Safe Eating"!