As a brand focused on 'better-for-you' snacks, Zee Zees offers a diverse portfolio of foods that includes applesauce, soft-baked bars, dried fruit, and roasted chickpeas. Because of this variety, there is no single answer to the question of how many calories are in ZEE ZEES?. Instead, the caloric content is specific to each product and its serving size. For example, a nutrient-dense soft-baked bar will contain significantly more calories than a fruit-based applesauce cup. Understanding the specific nutritional information for each item is crucial for making informed dietary choices.
Decoding Zee Zees' Diverse Product Line
Zee Zees' snacks are often popular in school lunch programs because many products are nut-free and meet Smart Snack standards. Their product line is designed to offer wholesome ingredients in interesting flavor combinations, with a strong focus on allergen-friendly options.
Applesauce Cups
Zee Zees applesauce cups are a low-calorie, shelf-stable fruit option. Several varieties have no added sugar and provide a good source of Vitamin C. The calorie counts for their applesauce products are consistently low, making them a light and refreshing snack.
Soft Baked Bars and Nutrition Bars
This category includes wholesome, individually wrapped snacks that are a more substantial option for breakfast or a snack. The calorie content is higher than the applesauce due to ingredients like whole grain oat flour, sugar, and oils. Many of these bars contain whole grains and are designed to be filling.
Other Snacks
In addition to their core product lines, Zee Zees also offers other snacks like graham crackers (Grahamz) and roasted chickpeas (Cruncherz), with their own unique nutritional profiles. These items offer variety in texture and flavor, and their calories per serving align with typical snack portions.
Comparison of Zee Zees Product Calories
| Product Category | Example Flavor | Serving Size | Approximate Calories | Key Nutritional Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Applesauce Cup | Cherry, No Added Sugar | 4.5 oz (128g) | 50 calories | No added sugar, fat-free, 100% Vitamin C |
| Applesauce Cup | Mango Peach, Unsweetened | 4.5 oz | 50 calories | Naturally fat-free, no added sugar |
| Applesauce Cup | Original Applesauce | N/A (Standard cup) | 60 calories | Low-calorie fruit snack |
| Soft Baked Bar | Birthday Cake | N/A (Standard bar) | 150 calories | Whole grain goodness |
| Soft Baked Bar | Campfire S'mores | N/A (Standard bar) | 150 calories | Contains whole grains |
| Nutrition Bar | Cocoa Cherry | 2.2 oz | 200 calories | Contains 51% whole grain and 4g fiber |
| Soft Baked Bar | Strawberry Crisp | 2.2 oz | 250 calories | Made with whole grains |
| Grahamz | Strawberry Grahamz | N/A (Standard pouch) | 120 calories | Provides a satisfying crunch |
| Dried Fruit | Mixzees | 1.33 oz | 120 calories | Made with real fruit |
Important Nutritional Considerations
Beyond just the calorie count, several other nutritional factors are important when evaluating Zee Zees snacks:
- Whole Grains: Many of the baked bars are made with 51% whole grain, providing a good source of fiber that aids in digestion and keeps you feeling full longer.
- Allergen Safety: A significant benefit of the Zee Zees brand is its dedication to allergen-free facilities. Many products are made in peanut and tree nut-free facilities, making them a safe choice for school environments.
- Added Sugar: While some products like the unsweetened applesauce have no added sugar, others, particularly the baked bars, do contain sugars. Those monitoring their sugar intake should review the nutritional label carefully. Zee Zees has also reformulated products to meet new USDA regulations on added sugars.
- Other Nutrients: Products like the Cocoa Cherry Nutrition Bar also provide moderate amounts of protein and fiber per serving, which can contribute to a balanced diet.
Conclusion: Making the Right Choice for Your Diet
Ultimately, there is no single answer to the question of how many calories are in ZEE ZEES? because the brand offers a wide spectrum of products, from low-calorie fruit cups to more caloric whole-grain bars. The best approach for nutritional planning is to check the specific nutritional information for each individual product. For those seeking lighter options, the applesauce and dried fruit varieties are excellent choices, while the baked bars offer a more substantial snack with higher calorie and whole-grain content. By paying attention to serving sizes and product types, consumers can easily fit Zee Zees snacks into their dietary goals.
For more information on their commitment to wholesome, allergen-friendly snacks, you can visit the official Zee Zees website.