While the name Stretch Island didn’t ring a bell, when I read “The Original Fruit Leather” on the snack-sized package, I knew I was in for a trip down memory lane.  Jumping at the first three flavors that caught my appetite, I was eager to do some foodie reminiscing…

Pineapple Coconut Paradise 

A pungent piña colada scent burst from the wrapper the second I peeled it back.  Yet, upon first bite, that familiar sweet and sour fruit leather taste took me back to my childhood.  With a leathery look and feel to the touch, the actual snack was soft, forgiving, and a touch stick-to-your-teeth chewy, just as I remembered.  Hints of coconut and an influence of pineapple dressed up the mellow fruit base, but without the potent aroma and assistance of the label, it might be difficult for me to pinpoint the flavor.  Since all of the flavors have apple puree as the first ingredient, and lemon juice somewhere in the picture, they do have the same underlying taste.  The flavors seemed to be enhancements, at least in this version, which was more apricot in color than creamy pineapple coconut. It was very tasty nonetheless, reminding me how much I loved fruit leather in my school days.  With my newfound knowledge I see no reason why this kid-friendly snack shouldn’t make it into my adult hiking backpack!

Abundant Apricot 

I anticipated a more subdued flavor upon opening the Abundant Apricot, as it didn’t immediately greet my nose.  In fact, I had to seek out the mild fruit scent myself.  As I bit in, I noticed that this flavor seemed less forgiving than the Pineapple Coconut, with more of that fruit leatheresque bite.  Consequently, it was more of a tough chew and less stick-to-your-teeth, but beyond a better jaw workout, it wasn’t a big deal.  The flavor was a touch more sour than sweet, with a definite dried apricot flavor.  I did prefer the Pineapple Coconut a bit more for its softer texture and sweeter flavor, but since I like dried apricots I wouldn’t hesitate to eat this one again. 

Strawberry Pomegranate Sunshine 

The sweet scent of strawberry syrup slowly emerged from the package.  While it was pleasant, it bordered on artificiality according to my senses. Siding with the Pineapple Coconut, this flavor was more soft and forgiving, with a bit of the same stickiness.  While I truly did enjoy the flavor, which was a noticeably sweet strawberry with a slight sour after-kick that seemed to linger with notes of bitter pomegranate, it immediately hit me with that same sense of artificiality.  I double checked the ingredients and did confirm that it was a 100% fruit concoction, no sweeteners or additives.  While I liked the contrasting flavors in the Strawberry Pomegranate better than the Apricot, I think the Pineapple would still be my first choice.  Though I admittedly never reach for strawberry flavors first, and was drawn in solely by the pomegranate on the label.  That being said, the sweet strawberry would surely be a hit with kids.

My Extra Notes & Tips:

• It looks as though some of these flavors are new to the fruit leather line-up, as I don't see them on the website, including one I haven't tried yet, Country Cranberry Raspberry.  I am eager to get my hands on the Mango Sunrise, Bountiful Blackberry, and Orchard Cherry next!
• While low in calories (around 45 I believe), each fruit leather contains about 1/2 serving of fruit, no added sugar, and is kosher certified.  Since they are 100% fruit, each fruit leather is free of the top food allergens (soy, milk, wheat/gluten, egg, etc.)

Where to Purchase:  I see Stretch Island Fruit Leathers lingering around different grocery departments, but most notably near the produce.  They often have a stand of their own, but if you can't find them, just ask a store associate, most major grocers and natural food stores seem to stock these old favorites.  Of course, some flavors are available to purchase direct from the folks at Stretch Island, and several Fruit Leather flavors are available on Amazon for a good price.

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