What a fabulous debate over ice cream. Who would have thought that such a simple treat would inspire the sharing of so much information?

First off, I want to thank both Purely Decadent and Coconut Bliss for stopping by to share nutrition, product development and other information in the comments section of this site.

I invited each company to do so and it is not only entirely appropriate, it is a gift to us that these manufacturers would take the time to bring the information right to our conversation, so that we don't have to take the time to hunt it down.

Here is a summary of some of my thoughts on this great debate:

1) I agree with Barbara's comment, that the Purely Decadent tastes better than the Coconut Bliss (just my personal preference though).

2) I also would agree with Alchemille's comment about the Coconut Bliss being healthier. And, as Shirley points out, you really can't beat a store bought product that has only 5 ingredients. In that realm, I would say that Coconut Bliss wins.

3) On the other hand, I would also agree with Alchemille's comment about MSG, I think Purely Decadent dispelled any worries that I might have had about this ingredient being in their product.

4) In terms of Kate's comment regarding GMO's, I would have to say this is quite an issue and sways me back over to team Coconut Bliss!

5) I also want to thank Christianne and CoconutGal for pointing out the "middle path."

In the end, I have decided not to eat the Purely Decadent (though still purchase it for the boys). Because of this post,I have decided to go just a tad more Paleo and avoid legumes (hence the Purely Decadent's gums and other ingredients don't really work for me at this point).

Finally, I want to thank Vince for sticking his neck out and joining the debate (entirely appropriate) and thank all of you for providing your thoughts, insights and information!

It's amazing that we could have such great conversation about ice cream!

That thread took forever to read! Quite intense, too. I have tried all these kinds of ice cream (including the goat's milk line), and I've enjoyed them all.

I think people should do what's right for themselves and their family diet-wise. We can safeguard our health to a certain extent but I don't know if we can ever fully protect ourselves, so I'm in agreement to enjoy the things we feel comfortable eating, in accordance with our values.

To everyone in good health and happiness,

Hannah

p.s. liking this rain, Elana? Jeez :) I'm in Loveland--so I've gotten the odd mix of rain, hail and the occasional 'tornado spotting'...

Regarding the concerns that have been raised in comments posted to this blog, let me begin by saying that we care deeply about the health and safety of our customers and work hard to make products that are not only enjoyable, but free of questionable ingredients and non-declared allergens.

While MSG can form naturally during soy fermentation or yeast extraction, it is not a normal, or common constituent of natural flavors. It is a myth that the term "natural flavors" is a cover for ingredients containing MSG. Our natural flavors come from botanicals and extracts from natural sources, and we purchase them from only a handful of companies with whom we have developed a trusting relationship.

Each manufacturer extracts individual components from natural sources and combines them into various combinations to achieve the flavor and texture profile they desire. We use guar gum, which is derived from the seed of the leguminous guar plant, to thicken, stabilize, and prevent graininess, and carob bean gum, derived from the seed of the leguminous carob tree, as a stabilizer. Neither ingredient contains MSG. In fact, all of our ingredients are carefully screened for the presence of MSG, and they are all free and clear of MSG.

The question of whether phytochemicals in soy may contribute to an increased cancer risk due to estrogenic effects has been raised. However, there is evidence that consuming soy at a young age reduces cancer risk later in life. Isoflavones (types of phytoestrogens in soy), are the subject of numerous scientific studies. Most of these studies indicate that isoflavones have some health benefit. Research in several areas has shown that the consumption of isoflavones may play a significant role in fighting disease on several fronts:

1. Reducing long-term overall cancer risk
2. Reducing risk of heart disease
3. Protecting against the progression and development of breast and prostate cancer
4. Preservation and improvement of bone health
5. Easing of menopause symptoms

We believe that there is a significant amount of scientific evidence supporting the inclusion of soy as part of a healthy diet.

We began using agave syrup in response to customer requests for a low-glycemic alternative to dehydrated cane sugar crystals. Agave syrup has a delicately sweet taste, blends well with coconut milk, and has the lowest glycemic index of any natural, caloric sweetener.

Our line of coconut milk ice cream has been so well-received, that we have also introduced a line of coconut milk yogurts and coconut milk beverages to meet our customers' demand for delicious, healthful alternatives to dairy and soy-based foods.

I think it is important to remember that dairy-free ice cream is a delicious treat made with fat and sugar to be enjoyed as part of, but certainly not as the centerpiece of a healthy diet. However, I think it is also worth noting that Purely Decadent Made with Coconut Milk is significantly lower in fat and calories than Luna & Larry's Coconut Bliss. We strive hard to meet our customers' needs, and value and welcome your feedback and suggestions.