Simple Mills Honey Cinnamon Sweet Thins have gained a loyal following for their simple, wholesome ingredient list and delicious flavor. For those with dietary restrictions or simply seeking a cleaner snack option, understanding the components of this product is essential. The ingredients are designed to deliver a crunchy, satisfying bite while being free from common allergens and artificial additives.
The Core Ingredients: The Seed & Nut Flour Blend
The foundation of the Honey Cinnamon Thins is a specific blend of flours sourced from seeds and nuts, rather than traditional grains. This is what makes the product grain-free and gluten-free. The combination is carefully selected to provide both flavor and a distinct, light texture.
The flour blend includes:
- Watermelon Seed Flour: This is a star ingredient, contributing a significant amount of protein, good fats, and micronutrients. It's key to the thins' crispy texture.
- Cashew Flour: Adds a rich, nutty flavor and a source of healthy fats.
- Sunflower Seed Flour: Offers another layer of wholesome fats and a slightly earthy taste.
- Flax Seed Flour: Provides fiber and essential omega-3 fatty acids, rounding out the nutritional profile.
Natural Sweeteners and Flavorings
In addition to the flour blend, the unique honey cinnamon flavor comes from a combination of natural and purposeful ingredients, keeping the thins free from refined sugars and artificial flavors.
Key flavor components:
- Organic Coconut Sugar: Provides a warm, caramel-like sweetness without the high glycemic impact of refined white sugar.
- Honey and Organic Honey Extract: These are responsible for the natural, floral honey flavor.
- Organic Cinnamon: The namesake spice provides a warm, classic, and aromatic flavor.
- Vanilla Extract: Adds a subtle layer of complexity to the overall flavor profile.
Other Additives for Texture and Freshness
To achieve their signature light and crispy texture, and to maintain shelf stability, Simple Mills uses a handful of other natural ingredients.
- Tapioca Starch and Arrowroot: These root starches are used as binders and thickeners, contributing to the thins' structural integrity without relying on gluten.
- Organic Coconut Oil: Serves as the fat source, creating a rich flavor and crisp texture.
- Baking Soda and Cream of Tartar: These are leavening agents that help the thins rise slightly and achieve their light, airy quality.
- Sea Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
- Rosemary Extract: Used as a natural antioxidant to help maintain the product's freshness over time.
A Comparison of Ingredients
To better understand how Simple Mills stands apart, a comparison of its ingredients to a conventional honey graham cracker is illuminating. The focus on whole-food ingredients and natural sweeteners is a key differentiator.
| Ingredient Category | Simple Mills Honey Cinnamon Thins | Conventional Honey Graham Crackers | Key Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flour Base | Seed & Nut Flour Blend (Watermelon, Cashew, Sunflower, Flax) | Whole Grain Wheat Flour | Simple Mills uses a grain-free, nutrient-dense blend. |
| Sweeteners | Organic Coconut Sugar, Honey, Organic Honey Extract | Honey, Molasses, High-Fructose Corn Syrup | Simple Mills avoids refined sugars and corn syrup. |
| Fat Source | Organic Coconut Oil | Soybean Oil, Palm Oil, Hydrogenated Oils | Simple Mills opts for a clean, organic fat source. |
| Leavening | Baking Soda, Cream of Tartar | Baking Soda | Both use baking soda, but Simple Mills adds cream of tartar. |
| Flavoring | Organic Cinnamon, Vanilla Extract, Sea Salt | Natural Flavor, Honey | Simple Mills focuses on simple, organic flavorings. |
| Additives | Rosemary Extract (for freshness) | BHT (for freshness) | Simple Mills uses a natural, plant-based preservative. |
The Verdict on Simple Mills' Ingredient Approach
Simple Mills’ commitment to using only purposeful ingredients is evident throughout their Honey Cinnamon Thins. By selecting a blend of seed and nut flours, they create a product that is not only gluten-free and grain-free but also nutrient-dense. The use of natural sweeteners like coconut sugar and honey, along with organic flavorings, results in a clean, tasty snack that appeals to a wide range of consumers, including those following paleo or gluten-free diets. This thoughtful approach to food production ensures a product free from common additives, making it a reliable and transparent choice for conscious snacking.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the ingredients in Simple Mills Honey Cinnamon Thins showcase a clean-label philosophy focused on seeds, nuts, and natural flavorings. The inclusion of watermelon seed flour is particularly innovative, providing both nutritional benefits and a pleasant, crispy texture. These purposeful choices result in a snack that is not only delicious but also accommodating to various dietary needs, including gluten-free, grain-free, and paleo diets. The final product is a crunchy, flavorful treat that stands as a testament to the brand's commitment to simpler, healthier food.
