Review: Planters NUTrition Energy Mix

Planters is putting the "nut" in nutrition with its NUTrition line. Each blend of snacks touts different benefits, such as being rich in antioxidants or fiber. I recently tried the Planters NUTrition Energy Mix. I cannot verify or deny the energy claims, but this is a tasty snack. It is significantly better than a traditional can of mixed nuts.

First Impressions
The label describes the energy mix as a natural source of energy and the Planters website touts it as a lasting source of energy. (Isn't all food a natural source of energy?) The assortment includes a mix of almonds, honey roasted peanuts, honey roasted sesame sticks, dark chocolate covered soynuts, walnuts and pecans.

Many of the chocolate covered soynuts are cracked and not especially appealing. Mixed nuts are often heavy on peanuts, but this package contains a good assortment of everything. The nuts are whole and seem fresh.

Taste Test
The soynuts have a good chocolate flavor without being too sweet. The peanuts and sesame sticks are honey roasted, but the flavor pairs well with the plain walnuts and pecans. The variety of textures, from crunchy soynuts to soft pecans, makes this a satisfying treat.

It reminds of me of trail mix without all the raisins and other dried fruits.

Nutrition Content
According to the label, each 9.25-ounce can contains eight servings. Each serving has 190 calories with 130 calories from fat. It contains 15 grams total fat with 2 grams saturated fat, 5 grams polyunsaturated fat and 7 grams monosaturated fat. It is free of cholesterol and contains 120 milligrams sodium, 170 milligrams potassium, 3 grams dietary fiber, 6 grams sugar and 5 grams protein.

Please refer to the Planters website for additional information.

Room for Improvement
It is possible the soynuts cracked during the store's checkout and bagging process because I purchased a cartload of items, but the crushed candy is a disappointing. Perhaps better packaging can prevent this issue.

Planters NUTrition Energy Mix In a Nutshell
Whole nuts and the complementary blend of flavors make this a great snack with a hint of sweetness and lots of crunch. At approximately $4 per 9.25-ounce can, I will occasionally purchase this snack in the future.

Buyer's Guide
Planters NUTrition products are available at a variety of retailers, including Walgreens and Amazon.com. The Sunday newspaper occasionally features coupons for this product.