Toasteds

Introduction

Toasteds is a unique brand that has carved a niche for itself in the snack industry, focusing on delivering crispy crackers with a distinctive toasted flavor. Founded by a group of passionate food enthusiasts, the brand's roots are deeply embedded in the desire to create high-quality snacks that can complement various dining experiences. With a background in culinary arts and a commitment to craftsmanship, the founders sought to elevate ordinary crackers into a gourmet experience, aiming to delight palates at social gatherings and casual moments alike.

At the heart of Toasteds' philosophy lies a commitment to quality and flavor. The brand believes that every snack should not only satisfy hunger but also enhance the enjoyment of food pairings, whether it's a simple cheese platter or an elaborate dip. This emphasis on complementing various foods sets Toasteds apart, as they prioritize using high-quality ingredients that allow the natural flavors of the crackers to shine. Their approach reflects an understanding of the culinary world, embracing both tradition and innovation in every product they offer.

What makes Toasteds special is their signature toasting technique, which gives their crackers a unique texture and flavor profile that is hard to replicate. Each cracker is meticulously crafted to ensure perfect crispness, making them a favorite among snack lovers. Additionally, the versatility of Toasteds Crackers allows them to be enjoyed in numerous ways, whether served at parties or savored during a quiet evening at home. This unique combination of quality, flavor, and versatility has established Toasteds as a beloved choice in the world of snacks.

Signature Products

Toasteds offers a variety of products that resonate with their brand identity of quality and flavorful snacking. Each product reflects their commitment to enhancing the food experience.

• Classic Toasted Crackers : Lightly toasted, perfectly crisp crackers ideal for pairing with cheeses and dips.
• Herbed Toasteds : Infused with aromatic herbs, these crackers bring a burst of flavor to any appetizer spread.
• Cheddar Cheese Toasteds : A delightful combination of toasted crackers infused with rich cheddar flavor for a cheesy snack experience.

Materials and Ingredients Used by Toasteds

• Palm Oil: This ingredient is a common fat derived from the fruit of oil palm trees. In Toasteds® crackers, palm oil serves as a key ingredient for achieving a rich flavor and desirable texture, enhancing the overall crunchiness and mouthfeel of the product.
• Cocoa: Cocoa is made from the roasted seeds of the cacao tree and provides a deep, rich flavor. While primarily known for its use in sweets, in Toasteds®, it adds a subtle sweetness and depth that complements the savory elements, making the crackers a unique pairing option for various toppings.
• Honey: Honey is a natural sweetener produced by bees, known for its distinctive flavor and various health benefits. In Toasteds®, honey adds a touch of sweetness, harmonizing with the other ingredients and making the crackers enjoyable on their own or with savory accompaniments.
• Milk: This ingredient is a nutritious liquid produced by mammals, rich in calcium and proteins. Used in Toasteds®, milk contributes to the overall flavor and helps in achieving a softer texture within the crispy outer layer, making them delightful to eat.
• Egg: Eggs are a versatile ingredient that provide structure and moisture. In Toasteds®, they help bind the ingredients together, ensuring a consistent crispness while contributing to a tender crumb that elevates the eating experience.
• Corn: Corn is a staple grain that can be processed into various forms. In Toasteds®, corn flour or meal is utilized to enhance the texture and flavor while providing a distinct crunch that complements the overall cracker profile.
• Butter: Butter is a dairy product that adds richness and flavor. In Toasteds®, it enhances the taste and creates a subtle creamy mouthfeel, making the crackers more appealing when enjoyed with cheese or spreads.
• Whey: Whey is a protein derived from milk during cheese production. In Toasteds®, whey adds a source of protein, improving the nutritional value while also contributing to the flavor and texture, making the crackers more satisfying.
• Sugar: Sugar is a sweetener that enhances flavor. In Toasteds®, it balances the savory elements and adds a pleasant touch of sweetness that rounds out the taste profile, appealing to a wide range of palates.
• Salt: Salt is a mineral used to enhance flavor. In Toasteds®, it amplifies the natural tastes of the ingredients and plays a vital role in bringing out the overall flavor experience, making the crackers irresistible as a snack.

Things to Keep in Mind When Buying From Toasteds

The following sustainability issues are related to the supply chain of Toasteds and need to be taken into consideration:

Deforestation:

Deforestation is a critical issue in the production of ingredients like palm oil, cocoa, and sugar. For example, palm oil expansion in Southeast Asia has significantly contributed to the loss of tropical forests, which are vital for carbon sequestration and biodiversity. This deforestation leads to habitat destruction for endangered species such as orangutans and tigers. In the cocoa industry, large swathes of forest in West Africa have been cleared for cocoa farming, further exacerbating climate change and loss of biodiversity.

Human Rights Violations:

The production of palm oil and cocoa often involves human rights abuses, including child labor and exploitation. In West Africa, where most of the world’s cocoa is harvested, children are frequently used for labor-intensive tasks on cocoa farms. Similarly, the palm oil industry has been linked to forced labor and poor working conditions. These practices undermine social sustainability and highlight the need for fair labor regulations and certifications.

Greenhouse Gas Emissions:

Ingredients such as milk, butter, and eggs are associated with high greenhouse gas emissions, primarily from methane production in dairy cows and energy-intensive farming practices. These emissions contribute to global warming and climate change. For instance, dairy farming is responsible for about 4% of global greenhouse gas emissions, emphasizing the need for sustainable practices and improved efficiencies in the agriculture sector.

Biodiversity Loss:

The loss of biodiversity is a pressing concern tied to the production of palm oil, cocoa, and corn. Monoculture farming, like intensive corn production, reduces genetic diversity in crops, making them more vulnerable to pests and diseases. The expansion of agricultural lands for palm oil plantations and cocoa farms disrupts ecosystems and threatens the survival of numerous species, calling for sustainable land management and conservation practices.

Water Usage:

Water usage is a significant concern for the production of milk, butter, whey, and sugar. Dairy and sugarcane farming require substantial water resources, contributing to water scarcity in regions where these ingredients are produced. For example, producing one kilogram of butter can require up to 18,000 liters of water. Efficient irrigation and water management techniques are critical to ensuring the sustainable use of this vital resource.

Pesticide Use and Soil Health:

The heavy use of pesticides in farming, particularly with crops like corn and sugar, poses risks to soil health and water quality. Pesticides can contaminate waterways, harm aquatic life, and diminish soil fertility over time. Soil erosion and degradation are exacerbated by these practices, reducing agricultural productivity and sustainability. Integrated pest management and organic farming practices can help mitigate these effects.

Animal Welfare:

Animal welfare concerns are prominent in the production of milk, eggs, and butter. Intensive farming practices often prioritize production efficiency over animal well-being, leading to overcrowding, poor living conditions, and health issues. Implementing humane practices and supporting systems that promote the ethical treatment of animals are essential for improving animal welfare in agriculture.

By addressing these issues, the sustainability of Toasteds' supply chain can be improved, contributing positively to environmental conservation and social equity.