Frequently Asked Questions

Why are Ommie fruit & seed energy bars different? In a world of fruit & nut bars, we offer a fruit and seed solution, ideal for people with food allergies and sensitivities. Our wholesome bars are nut free, gluten free, egg free, dairy free, and are an ideal option for a healthy breakfast, a wholesome treat, or on-the-go snack for anyone in the family. Ommie bars are also a great alternative for those interested in a different alternative to complement their diet.

What is the difference between an energy bar and a protein bar? Most bars in the market fall into the following categories:

• Protein bars: These are designed to help you gain muscle mass. Usually made from added protein sources like whey concentrate or pea protein they tend to have somewhat of a 'chalky' taste and texture. Unfortunately, in most cases, protein bars fall closer to chemically engineered edible-food-like-substances, not actual food.  In many instances, protein bars mask the huge amount of saturated fat, sugar and artificial ingredients with a high protein count. When compared to a chocolate candy bar (sans the protein) they look very similar.

• Energy bars:   These are primarily designed to be eaten before a long workout or to prolong energy during daily outdoor activities. The ingredient core is typically made from a combo of fruits, nuts, seeds and grains. While less egregious than protein bars, most energy bars are loaded with added sugars and fats, artificial ingredients and fillers, fruit purees and concentrates, which can wreck your diet and leave you sluggish. Just spot the first 3-4 ingredients on the nutrition label. Most start with liquid ingredients (sweeteners like syrup, honey, nectar and fats like oils, butter, lecithin) to bind together the dry ingredients (grains, fruit and nuts). Always read the ingredient panel so you can make a well informed decision. At Ommie Snacks, we do what's right. All of our bars are free of added sugars, and are free of binders like dates, oats, and flours.

There are a few energy bars in the market that can act as a superfood, and infuse your body with nutrition. Ommie bars are a great option. Made with dried fruits, sunflower seeds and pumpkin seeds, our bars are wholesome and allergy-friendly, nutritious and delicious.

Why fruits and seeds? Our blend of sunflower and pumpkin seeds are allergy friendly and provide a crunch & nutritious base with healthy plant-based protein and healthy fats. Our dried fruits provide delicious flavor variety and a burst of energy. We top all our vegan and allergy free Ommie bars with natural spices like ground cinnamon, cardamom and coffee, soy-free carob powder, soy-free semi-sweet chocolate chips, natural extracts, and poppy seeds. We do add a tiny bit of organic coconut butter and organic sea salt to enhance the flavor profile of our bars, and to maintain an appropriate ph level that naturally extends the shelf life of our bars.

 Are your products organic? We use some organic ingredients like dried bananas, coconut butter, and sea salt. At our current size, to keep your prices attractive it is currently not feasible to use organic ingredients throughout. 

Are your products certified gluten free, non-GMO, dairy-free? All our bars were formulated to be naturally free of nuts, tree nuts, soy, eggs, dairy, wheat. As our business grows with your support it is our goal to get the non-GMO certification, and move into an allergy-free commercial kitchen.

Where do your ingredients come from? It is very important to us to help support our local economy. That is why we source our fruits and seeds, as well as our natural extracts from locally-based Minnesota companies.

Where are your products made? Our products are made in a licensed commercial kitchen in Minnesota. 

Are your products nut-free, soy-free, egg-free, dairy-free, gluten-free? While our company does not currently make allergy-free label claims, none of the ingredients in our products are derived from nuts, tree nuts, soy, egg, dairy, wheat or gluten. As our business expands we plan to move into a gluten-free commercial kitchen and will apply for the necessary allergy-free certifications.

 

Your product includes Coconut. Is it safe for people with allergies?The American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (ACAAI) states: “Coconut is not a botanical nut; it is classified as a fruit, even though the Food and Drug Administration recognizes coconut as a tree nut. While allergic reactions to coconut have been documented, most people who are allergic to tree nuts can safely eat coconut. If you are allergic to tree nuts, talk to your allergist before adding coconut to your diet."

Are your products vegan? All Ommie Snacks fruit and seed energy bars are vegan and vegetarian. They don't contain any animal products such as honey, eggs, or dairy.

What is the shelf life of your product? Ommie bars are best enjoyed within the first 8 months after being produced. While we use ingredients that enjoy a natural long shelf-life (dried fruits, raw and unsalted seeds, natural spices) we use a multi-layer mylar package that keeps out UV light which, in turn, maintains freshness without the use of preservatives.

Will Ommie bars freeze or melt? If placed in the freezer or outside in cold temperatures, Ommie bars will become firmer, but will not freeze. Similarly, they will not melt when heated. However, to preserve product quality we recommend that you store your Ommie bars in a cool area.

What does Ommie mean? Ommie comes from the sanskrit word 'Om', a spiritual mantra used by many as a tool for meditation and introspection, and 'Me'.  While it has many meanings, we apply its significance to the union of our mind-body-soul in harmony with the planet and those around us. In today's busy and often superficial world, cultivating  awareness and living mindfully is a habit that brings tremendous benefits.