Leibniz Zoo by Bahlsen, RM5.99
Packaging
This German brand of biscuits has been around since 1891 and this is proudly emblazoned on the re-sealable plastic packaging. The problem with having biscuits in a plastic bag is that they can get crushed and animals without limbs and heads may not be so popular with the little ones.
Taste
Light and airy in texture, these animal crackers tasted bland compared to its contenders.
Brownie points
From wide-eyed owls to rotund bears and standing squirrels to feathered ducks, Leibniz Zoo cookies feature the widest range of animals, and they have a whole wheat option for the health-conscious too.
Verdict
A healthier option for kids, but lacking in the taste department.
Score
+
Meiji Zooland Biscuits, RM4.13
Packaging
A sassy cartoon monkey sporting a cowlick grabs your attention while a bilingual (English and Japanese) word match puzzle on the back provides a fun activity for the kids. The bright yellow box with red lettering is quite minimalist compared to the other two brands.
Taste
It was impossible to stop at just one. Meiji’s small and crunchy animal crackers left behind a buttery mouthfeel and are reminiscent of Pepperidge Farm Goldfish.
Brownie points
These crackers are also printed with the name of each depicted animal – perfect for squeezing in a lesson during snack time.
Verdict
Dangerously delicious and great for giving your child’s vocabulary a boost.
Score
+++
Yogood Junior Cereal Biscuits, RM11.30
Packaging
The green packaging gave us the impression that the contents were a healthier version of animal crackers. We were right; a detailed chart on the back lists nutritional information such as vitamin content, fat breakdown and protein percentages. Inside, individual packets hold four cookies each, making them good lunchbox-fillers.
Taste
The taste of whole grains was superseded by a peculiar aftertaste, which isn’t altogether unpleasant.
Brownie points
Double the size of the other animal crackers, Yogood’s cereal biscuits are suitable for toddlers given their easy-grip trait.
Verdict
Get the kids on these from an early age so they get accustomed to healthy snacking.
Score
++