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. Fruit leather was one of my favorite snacks from late childhood through my teenage years. I always kept a couple on hand for when I was craving something sweet. I was happy to see they are still available, still dairy-free, and still made almost purely with fruit.
Tasting Notes for Stretch Island Fruit Co.
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.). As an adult, I’ve only tried the following two flavors.
Apricot
I anticipated a more subdued flavor with the apricot since it had a very mild scent. As I bit in, I noticed that the texture wasn’t very forgiving. It was truly a fruit leather with a tough chew and better jaw workout. On the flip side, it didn’t stick much to my teeth like many fruit strips do. The flavor was a touch more sour than sweet, with a definite dried apricot flavor. Since I like dried apricots I wouldn’t hesitate to eat this one again.
Strawberry
The sweet scent of strawberry syrup slowly emerged from the package. While it was pleasant, it bordered on artificial in my opinion. The texture of the Strawberry was more soft and forgiving than the apricot, but with a little more stickiness.
I truly enjoyed the flavor, which was very sweetly strawberry with a slight sour after-taste and a touch of bitter pomegranate flavor. But like the scent, it had a hint of artificial flavor to me. I double checked the ingredients and did confirm that it was a 100% fruit concoction – no sweeteners or additives.
More Stretch Island Fruit Leather Flavors
And they have a Variety Pack available.
The Facts on Stretch Island Fruit Leather
Availability: Stretch Island Fruit Leathers are sold at Kroger stores and Walmart in the U.S. You can also order them online from Amazon.
Certifications: Stretch Island Fruit Leather is Non-GMO Verified and Certified Kosher Pareve.
Dietary Notes: By ingredients, Stretch Island Fruit Leather is dairy-free / non-dairy, egg-free, gluten-free, grain-free, nut-free, peanut-free, soy-free, vegan, vegetarian, and paleo-friendly.*
For More Product Information: Visit the Stretch Island Fruit website at stretchislandfruit.com
*Always read the ingredient and nutrition statement prior to consumption. Ingredients, processes, and labeling are subject to change at any time for any company or product. Contact the company to discuss their manufacturing processes if potential allergen cross-contamination is an issue for you. No food product can be guaranteed “safe” for every individual’s needs. You should never rely on ingredient and allergen statements alone if dealing with a severe food allergy.
Reminds me of childhood
These are perfect for kids, but I might start adding them to our adult snack bowl too! They are on the tough side for chewing, but not too bad. The flavors are sweet-tart and quite tasty.
