Every so often I am approached by various companies who offer me different food products to review on the blog.  I’m pretty picky about the products I review – if it doesn’t sound good to me or isn’t allergy-friendly I won’t review it.  Recently, Zen Monkey and Larabar sent me some new gluten-free items to try, so here are my latest gluten-free product reviews.

First up, Zen Monkey.   Zen Monkey has a line of breakfast products that combine yogurt, oats, and fruit.  The texture can be a little off-putting at first, but if you have ever had overnight oats or even muesli, it’s very similar to that.

The current Zen Monkey product line comes in three flavors: Apple Cinnamon, Blueberry, and Strawberry.  Each container is two servings (140 calories per serving) and comes in a reusable Tupperware container which is perfect for a breakfast on the go.

Out of all the flavors I tried, I liked the Apple Cinnamon the best.  The strawberry and blueberry flavors were a bit on the sweet side for me, but if you like a strong berry flavor, then I’d definitely give them a shot.  I also felt that half a container wasn’t enough for a full serving.  If I was having breakfast on the go, I’d probably eat the whole container for a more complete breakfast.

So would I get the Zen Monkey products again?  I really like the concept and love how convenient the packaging is, but honestly I don’t know if I would get them again.  It’s pretty easy to make overnight oats at home, and I usually have enough time most mornings to eat breakfast at home before I have to rush out the door for work.  But if you are looking for a quick and easy breakfast option (and like yogurt) then Zen Monkey might work for you.  They do have a pineapple flavor coming out soon which I would be interested in trying.

The second of my gluten-free product reviews is Larabar’s new vegan “Renola.”

Larabar recently released a new line of grain-free granola that is made with GMO-free fruits, nuts and seeds.  The renola comes in individual packets, so it’s perfect to take around for a snack on the go.

I had the berry flavor with some almond milk one afternoon as a snack and it was delicious!  It doesn’t have the same cluster factor as traditional granola, but the flavor is spot on and each pouch clocks in at 200 calories and less than 10g sugar.  If you have a hard time with portion control when it comes to granola (which I do), then the renola is perfect for you.

And I just so happen to think that the renola makes a fabulous crumble topping over some grilled pineapple and ice cream.

I can definitely see myself buying more of Larabar’s renola in the future – it’s perfect for travel and a great way to sneak in a quick breakfast or snack without too much fun.  Plus, I love that it is gluten-free and paleo-friendly – both bonuses in my book.

Any gluten-free products you are loving out there?  What else should I try?