BarKat

Ice cream cones

These are wheat, dairy, egg and nut free and are therefore suitable for those on a restricted diet. They looked and smelled similar to any other ice cream cones. The cones were lovely and crisp and held the ice cream well. They were not as sweet as many brands but because they are eaten with sweet ice cream this was not a problem. With this product there is no need for anyone on a wheat free diet to go without an ice cram treat. All the testers (and we had many volunteers) gave it the thumbs up and were preferred over other brands by all testers.

Gingerbread men

These looked attractive although they are very fragile compared to wheat based ones, so some of the men arrived in pieces which may disappoint a child. They had a really good ginger flavour and were crunchy and moreish. They were not as sweet or chewy as conventional gingerbread men but with a little time one soon gets accustomed to a less sweet product and even a sweet-toothed child enjoyed them.

Ginger cookies

The ginger cookies looked appealing but testers were somewhat polarized on this product. The first camp thought they were gingery with a taste of vanilla and every bit as good as any other wheat based ones they have eaten. The second camp thought they had a slightly odd flavour and tasted the vegetable fat and possibly the almond essence. These are cookies you just have to try because if you fall in the first camp you'll love them and if you don't you'll soon find someone who does.

Matzos

The Barkat Matzos were quite liked by everyone but it was generally felt that they couldn't compete with wheat based versions. However, in the interests of fairness this is the same for any other wheat free manufacturer. Once again a slight fatty taste was commented on by a few testers. This product was recommended for Matzo fans on a wheat free diet.

Crackers

The Crackers were liked by everyone and the slight yeast extract flavour really added to the success of this product. This is one that had a unanimous thumbs up.






Overall everyone felt that BarKat had produced a good product for those on restrictive diets and their range and quality compared favourably with other special diet brands. It was felt by everyone that the packaging was letting the product down: our testers described it as 'dated' and 'boring' but they did admit that it was easy to identify, having a distinct look. Those who regularly purchase 'special diet' foods commented that most of the competitors also had boring packets.

We are happy to recommend BarKat to anyone on a wheat and gluten free diet.

If you've also had experience of these products, or similar, we'd love to know what you think! Email us here with your views.

Anna van der Post
July 2009