Phantom Gourmet: Animal Cracker Taste Test

BOSTON (CBS) – Phantom Gourmet recently purchased four bags of animal crackers from a local supermarket.

The kid friendly contenders were Barbara's, Keebler, Nabisco, and Stauffer's.

Stauffer's Animal Crackers finished in last place. On the downside, these pale crackers were hard and dry with very little flavor. On the upside, this bargain brand of well-shaped pieces rang up at less than half the cost of the other competitors. Overall, Phantom says Stauffer's is a mixed bag.

Next up was Nabisco and their iconic Barnum's Animal Crackers. These may be the crackers Phantom grew up on, but they're not his top choice these days. These small pieces are the softest of the bunch, with a too subtle flavor that simply let Phantom feeling unsatisfied.

The runner up is Keebler. This big blue bag is loaded with crackers that pack a pleasant punch of lemony aroma and flavor. Crunchy and sweet with just a hint of saltiness, this brand is a bit addictive. Plus, while snacking, Phantom could entertain himself with the animal related games and trivia on the back of the bag. What kept Keebler from taking the top spot is that these poorly shaped pieces look more like random blobs than actual animals.

At the top of the food chain is Barbara's Snackimals. First the bad news, this health focused brand is going to cost you a few bucks extra. But Phantom says they're worth every penny. These dark flat snacks feature hippos, lions, and elephants and deliver a deep molasses flavor that gives way to a pleasant hint of vanilla. Plus, they're made with organic grain and no artificial flavors, additives, or preservatives. That's why Barbara's Snackimals are at the top of the food chain.

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