I have tried a lot of kale chips in my life, believe me.

And I mean a lot.

Remember, I’m crazy for kale.  Those that know me well (or even not so well), know that “kale is my candy.”

In fact, my kale chip consumption is rather ridiculous.  Some might say it verges on breaking the bank on the occasional day, week, or month of the year.

Of course I could make these delicious delicacies at home on my own ~ and I have, don’t get me wrong ~ but I am simply driven to buy them.

I have my reasons.

Economically speaking, it just makes sense.  Here’s the math:
Organic Kale  (1 bunch)                                       $3
Organic Cashews (sprouted)                              $5
Extra Virgin Olive Oil                                          $1
Various “Flavorings”                                           $2

MY TIME                                                               Priceless
(24 hours of dehydrating and waiting)

Besides the fact that I no longer possess a dehydrator, and the oven just doesn’t get these babies right.

In any case, it’s worth it.

And, so are the Alive and Radiant brand chips.

As I stated above, I know my kale chips.  I know what’s good and I know what’s not good.

THESE babies are goooood.

Both honored and privileged to provide a formal review, here’s the deal:

Alive and Radiant offers seven flavors of their “regular” kale chips, with an additional seasonal surprise (yum!), two “superfood” flavors, and three “veggie” flavors to add a little punch to the bunch.

By the way, these snacks are officially deemed, “Kale Krunch,” not just your typical kale chips.

As descriptions will have it:

Perfectly Plain: ~ possibly discontinued, and not available on the website.  (At one time I quite enjoyed these, but now that I’ve been exposed to bigger and better, I’m not crushed these are no longer available).  As with many kale chips, the nutritional yeast flavor is a little too prevalent.

Quite Cheezy: “Quite Cheezy is the original kale chip that started a revolution. We swear it’s vegan but your friends will never believe you. For over nine years we’ve kept the same signature “cheesy” blend of cashews, red bell pepper and nutritional yeast. In each bag you’ll find full kale leaves that have been dehydrated for a satisfying crunch.” ~ These, my friends, are a “runner up” favorite of mine.

Cheezy Chipotle: “A new twist on our best selling Quite Cheezy Kale Krunch, Cheezy Chipotle kicks things up a notch. This time we’ve added chipotle peppers, smoked salt and paprika to our signature “cheesy” blend of cashews, red bell pepper and nutritional yeast to create the perfect balance of smoke and heat.” ~ I found the smoke and heat to be too much for me to really enjoy the Krunch of the Kale.  It spiced me out, and I like spicy food.

Tarragon Dijon: “Our Tarragon Dijon packs a fresh mustard zing followed by a hint of tarragon sure to leave your taste buds craving more.” ~ Both the mustard and the tarragon are surprisingly subtle in this flavor.  In fact, you may not even recognize the addition of the tarragon.

Southwest Ranch: “Get ready for this one – it’s spicy! Our Southwest Ranch packs a punch of flavor and heat by combining garlic and our secret list of spices with habanero peppers so each bag finishes with a kick.” ~ Kicky and spicy for sure, these are not your typical “ranch” flavored chips.  The southwest component reigns heavily, for sure!  Yowza!!

Hibiscus and Pink Peppercorn: “This peppery but sweet chip is highlighted by the bite of pink peppercorn then smoothed over by the pleasantly soft floral taste of hibiscus flower. If you’re in the mood for something different or feeling particularly adventurous today, give this one a shot!” ~ Oh my, I have a love affair with these pink palate pleasers.  They are by far my favorite.  I crave them each and every day in so many ways.   Oh, divine, I’d say.  The sweet zing and peppery zip couple together to complete a craving for more and more Kale Krunch each and every day.  I love these.  I LOVE them.

Chockalet Chip: “Chockalet Kale Krunch features an anti-oxidant rich heirloom cacao powder mixed with pumpkin seeds and kissed with coconut palm sugar.” ~ I have found that I have a love-hate relationship with this variety.  At first I simply detested the idea of mixing chocolate with my beloved kale.  I sampled, sat, and felt satiated.  Then I wanted more.  But, then, I didn’t want that I wanted more.  Chocolate…too much chocolate, perhaps? (They are overwhelmingly sweet and Krunchy).  It seems to me I’m just using these as an excuse to eat more chocolate.  Yes, that’s it!  My mind is telling me it’s okay because it is kale…oh, I’m so confused…just feed me some Chockalet Chip why don’t you?

Seasonal Spring Onion:

Our customers asked for it, and now you got it – each season, we will release a limited amount of flavors that embody what the current season represents. Each flavor in our seasonal line is designed to bring you the freshest, tastiest & healthiest product possible by using local & seasonal ingredients. Also, when you eat foods that are in season, you are getting not only the tastiest product available but also the healthiest! Did you know that fruits & veggies that are in season contain more nutrients than when not in season? Not only is it sensible to eat seasonally, but it’s also better for the planet and farmers!

“Made with organic scallions, cashews, celery and a bit of garlic, our first seasonal flavor, Spring Onion, is refreshing, subtle and creamy goodness. Similar to sour cream and onion, one bite of our Spring Onion Kale Krunch will have you craving a walk in the park among wild flowers.” ~ All I can say is, “wow.”  What a concept.  Delicate and unique…I can’t wait for next season’s surprise.

Veggie Krunch: Terriyaki Greens, Arugula Cabbage, and Sweet Onion:  “Revolutionizing snacking one leaf at a time! Made with raw, organic veggies, fruits and nuts, our Veggie Krunch offers enlightenment to snackers everywhere. Open your mouth and say, “Ommm.” ~ These truly are a delightful mix to the bunch.  I found them easily “sprinkle able” (just like kale chips) over a variety of items and particularly enjoyed the Krunchy addition to veggies and salads.  I like the difference in texture too – something profoundly important in my book.  Plenty of Krunch, and a little extra “chew.”

Superfood (Original and Spicy): Made with both spirulina and chia seeds (along with the ultra uber kale), these truly are super-duper foods.  I found, as well, with the addition of a little bit of maca, even the non-spicy Superfood variety provided just a hint of a kick.  And, I love the fact that my mouth turns an exuberant green upon gobbling up these suckers (and in the gluttony of it all…licking my fingers of every last little bit!)

The consensus:

Don’t miss out.  These are ALIVE and RADIANT!