Should you try Harry Kane`s new snack sticks?
SunSport`s Dan King, an expert in savory snacks (and football!), taste-tested Kane`s recent entry into the snack market.
These sorghum and corn-based snacks, endorsed by Kane and containing the probiotic Bacillus Coagulans, are special editions from the `Insane Grain` brand.
While the England captain has broken Gary Lineker`s goalscoring record for the national team, he might not overtake the crisp-loving Match of the Day presenter in the snack aisle.
If you`re hoping for a flavor as strong as Kane`s presence in front of goal, you might be disappointed.
However, the Bayern Munich striker`s range of “healthy” snacks is quite pleasant and unlikely to be too intense for children, much like the man himself.
A PITCH OF SALT
The pale yellow color isn`t particularly appealing or off-putting, and the same goes for the flavor. It tastes exactly as described: a touch of salt, not overpowering (though surprisingly, the nutritional info shows this is the saltiest option). It`s just… okay.
I`d probably want to dip these in something to boost the flavor, but that would negate the point of choosing a snack supposedly healthier, or at least less unhealthy, than others.
Rating: 4/10
SALT & VINEGOAAL
Another pun that even Gary Lineker might reject, but this is my favorite flavor. You have to ignore how they look – they`re a rather dull beige, lacking the enticingly “dirty” look of something like a pork scratching.
I know my salt and vinegar. While these don`t deliver the intense kick of the undisputed champion – McCoys, ridged for your pleasure – they do have a decent malt vinegar tang.
Rating: 7/10
STRIKIN’ HOT
Let`s be honest: these baked sticks are essentially a version of Nik Naks. This immediately puts them in direct competition with the superior `Nice ’N’ Spicy` Nik Naks. And much like Kane`s former club, Tottenham, these are clearly second best.
Again, the flavor is okay, but it`s simply not strong enough. If a snack claims to be `hot,` I expect a noticeable level of heat. There`s a slight spicy aftertaste, but it`s not exciting.
Rating: 5/10
OVERALL VERDICT
If you`re a parent seeking a snack to keep the kids happy without loading them up on salt and fat, these could be an option (assuming you monitor portion sizes).
Children often don`t prefer intense flavors anyway, and the football connection might encourage them to overlook any mildness.
However, if you`re preparing snacks for a sunny Bank Holiday gathering, there are certainly more flavorful and less expensive options available.
Despite Kane`s claim on the packaging that they are “insanely delicious,” that`s not the case. At £2 a bag? I won`t be “Bayern” them again.
