Stocking Stuffers #1: Funky Monkey Snacks

Looking for a healthy snack to stuff in the stockings or take along on the way to Grandma's house? If your kids like fruit flavored snacks, and you like them to eat snacks that are actually made from real fruit, then I'd recommend Funky Monkey Snacks.

Made from freeze-dried fruit with no added sugar or artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives, these snacks come in four flavors. The kids and I sampled all four, and here are the results:

Predictably, the 4-year-old, picky member of our focus group chose not to participate at all, opting instead to continue playing with his Lego helicopter.

My 6-year-old son, a moderately picky eater, willingly sampled all four flavors. His favorite? Bananamon (bananas flavored with cinnamon), by a long shot. He also liked Purple Funk (banana and açaí), but he wasn't as fond of the other flavors.

The next member of the focus group was our 2-year-old, who will try absolutely any food you put in front of her. She did not disappoint, diving into each bag with great enthusiasm. I tried to keep track of which one she liked best, but in no time she had mixed them all together in a bowl and left the room.

Later, when she was full and abandoned the bowl on the floor, Hank the dog helped himself to the leftovers. His verdict? Two paws up.

As for me, I certainly thought they were better than your average freeze-dried fruit. I should add that my relationship with dried fruit has been on shaky ground ever since I overdosed on the stuff during a backpacking trip years ago.

For the kids, though, I think I'll be stocking up on Funky Monkey snacks. These are a great way to provide a couple servings of fruit in the form of a crunchy treat. And the Bananamon, Purple Funk and Jivealime flavors are all certified organic.

Check the Funky Monkey Web site for more information, and to check availability in your area or order online.