Core Ingredients of Belmont Teddy Tots
Belmont Teddy Tots, an Aldi exclusive, are built upon a common base of ingredients. The fundamental components include wheat flour, sugar, and vegetable fat or oil, providing the biscuit's structure and sweetness. Raising agents like ammonium and sodium carbonates contribute to their crisp texture, while emulsifiers such as soy lecithin ensure a consistent blend of ingredients. Salt is added to balance the sweetness, and honey can be found in some varieties.
Choc Teddy Tots
The Choc flavour incorporates additional ingredients for its distinct taste. These include dark compound chocolate made with sugar, hydrogenated vegetable fat, and alkalized cocoa powder. Additional cocoa powder enhances the chocolatey notes, supported by various emulsifiers (E322, E476) and a stabilizer (E492). Natural colour (E160a) and natural flavors are also part of this recipe.
Hundreds and Thousands Teddy Tots
This colourful variant features sprinkles and specific ingredients that differentiate it. The sprinkles themselves are a mix of sugar, tapioca starch, natural colours (100, 120, 160c), natural flavour, and a glazing agent (904). Margarine and butter (from milk) contribute to the biscuit base, and egg is included as a binder. Natural vanilla and butter flavourings complete this variety.
Teddy Tots vs. Arnott's Tiny Teddies: A Comparison
A comparison between Belmont Teddy Tots and Arnott's Tiny Teddies reveals several differences beyond their bear shapes, as highlighted by consumer feedback and taste tests.
| Feature | Belmont Teddy Tots (Aldi) | Arnott's Tiny Teddies (Classic Varieties) |
|---|---|---|
| Availability | Exclusive to Aldi | Widely available in supermarkets |
| Price | Generally more budget-friendly | Higher price point |
| Choc Taste | Noticeably darker; preferred by some in taste tests | A lighter, more classic chocolate flavour |
| Hundreds & Thousands Taste | Won a taste test against Arnott's | Did not win the taste test against Aldi |
| Sugar Content | Sometimes lower sugar content per serving compared to Arnott's | Can have a higher sugar content per serving compared to Aldi |
| Key Fats | Uses vegetable fat, potentially including palm oil | Also uses vegetable oil, potentially including palm oil |
The Function of Key Ingredients
Ingredients in Teddy Tots serve specific purposes to achieve the desired taste, texture, and shelf life. Emulsifiers like E322 and E476 help blend ingredients smoothly, particularly in the chocolate coating. Raising agents (E500, E503) create the biscuit's airy structure. Antioxidant 307 is added to fats to prevent spoilage. Food colour E160a enhances the visual appeal.
Conclusion
Belmont Teddy Tots from Aldi offer a variety of flavours based on a core set of ingredients including wheat flour, sugar, and vegetable fat. Specific flavours like Choc and Hundreds and Thousands incorporate unique ingredients such as compound chocolate or sprinkles. While comparable to Arnott's Tiny Teddies in concept, Teddy Tots distinguish themselves through specific ingredient choices, flavour profiles, and price. Consumers with dietary concerns should always review the packaging for the most current information.
Allergens in Teddy Tots
It is important for consumers to be aware of potential allergens present in Teddy Tots. Both the Choc and Hundreds and Thousands flavours contain wheat (gluten) and soy. The Choc flavour may also contain other gluten cereals, egg, milk, peanuts, and tree nuts, while the Hundreds and Thousands flavour contains egg and milk, and may contain other gluten cereals, peanuts, and tree nuts. Always refer to the product packaging for the most accurate allergen information.
