Frozen Fruit Fiesta

Enjoying frozen treats like popsicles and freezies used to be a rite of passage for kids. But many health-conscious parents are now saying ‘No way!’

So what’s a kid to do? Let your little ones try two locally made versions that even the most health conscious parents will approve of. These aren’t only a summertime treat, but a year-round delight.

Rico ‘n Lalo is run by father-of-two Eduardo Zuniga who knows all about kids’ cravings for sweet treats and parents’ desire for nutrition. Inspired by the Mexican ‘paletas’ that are sold on the street, he built a nut-free factory in North Vancouver, where small batches of the frozen bars are made from fresh fruit, purified water, evaporated organic cane sugar and guar gum. That’s it. No artificial sweeteners or preservatives.

And the calories per bar range from only 50 (for the lime) to 60 calories for the mango (these aren’t just for kids to eat, Mom). Make no mistake though, these beauties may be low in calories but they pack a high-flavour punch. Lime, watermelon and raspberry are top-sellers while new combos like cucumber/chili and mango appeal to more sophisticated palates.

They’re available at some local concessions and grocery stores, but Zuniga is also selling them to the schools as a substitute for popsicle fundraisers.

Also on the North Shore, Maxfrut owners Karin Brandes and Augustin Ibanez are on the same track with their storefront and factory. Their hand-made frozen fruit and fruit/yogurt bars have been designated as ‘Choose Most’ and ‘Choose Sometimes’ options under the new guidelines for food and beverage sales in BC schools.

They already have about twenty schools buying half-size bars for student-led fundraisers. The colourful bars are usually bought for a dollar and sold for two, which means a tidy profit for the students and peace of mind for the parents.

Regular-sized bars are chock-full of fibre and vitamins. Popular flavours like lime, blueberry and watermelon are sold year-round. Seasonal combos like real vanilla and berries (you can actually see the specks of vanilla bean inside) will come and go.

Various Capers, Stong’s and SuperValu stores are carrying them in packs of three for about $8. You can also stop by their ‘Flavour Lab Factory Store’ and stock up on your family’s faves.

So we say “out with the old and in with the new” when it comes to frozen fun on a stick. A flavour fiesta has arrived in town.

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