OREO

Introduction

OREO cookies were first introduced to the public in the United States in 1912. The creation of the iconic cookie is credited to the National Biscuit Company (which later became Nabisco) and its founders, primarily Samuel J. Porcello, who developed the unique design and flavor profile. Since their introduction, OREOs have transcended mere dessert status and evolved into a cultural phenomenon. The brand has remained a staple in households, offering a nostalgic connection that spans generations.

The philosophy behind OREO centers on celebrating moments of togetherness and joy. The brand's marketing often emphasizes the unique experience of enjoying an OREO cookie with family and friends, encapsulated in the famous "twist, lick, dunk" ritual. OREO has a diverse range of flavors and limited editions, showcasing the brand's commitment to innovation while maintaining the essence of what makes OREOs beloved. This willingness to embrace new ideas while staying true to its roots contributes to the brand's enduring popularity.

What makes OREO special is its combination of iconic taste, creative marketing, and a shared experience that many people cherish. The cookie's unique design and the versatility of its flavor offerings allow it to continuously captivate various demographics. OREO's ability to adapt to local tastes and cultures, while maintaining core attributes, keeps the brand fresh and relevant in an ever-changing market.

Signature Products

OREO products are designed to bring people together and enhance shared moments.

• OREO Original : The classic version with rich chocolate wafers and a creamy filling, embodying the traditional OREO experience.
• OREO Double Stuf : Featuring double the cream filling for those who love an extra sweet bite.
• OREO Thins : A lighter twist for those who prefer a crispier, more delicate cookie.
• OREO Mega Stuf : Loaded with an even more substantial helping of the signature creamy filling.
• OREO Birthday Cake : A festive variant that combines the classic cookie with a birthday cake-flavored filling and colorful sprinkles.
• OREO Flavored Ice Cream : A creamy ice cream experience inspired by the beloved cookie, perfect for a refreshing treat.

Materials and Ingredients Used by OREO

• Cocoa : Cocoa is a rich ingredient derived from cacao beans, known for its deep flavor and is used to provide the signature chocolate taste in Oreo cookies. This ingredient enhances the sensory experience of the cookie, making it appealing to chocolate lovers.
• Corn : Corn is often used in various forms, such as corn syrup or cornstarch, as a sweetener or thickening agent. In Oreos, it contributes to the texture and moisture balance of the cookie, ensuring it has a pleasant mouthfeel while also helping to keep the product fresh.
• Milk : Milk is a liquid ingredient rich in flavor and nutrients, serving as a key component in the cream filling of Oreo cookies. The inclusion of milk flavor contributes to the creamy texture and enhances the overall taste experience, aligning with the brand's positioning as “milk’s favorite cookie.”
• Salt : Salt is a flavor enhancer that balances sweetness and brings out the other flavors in the cookies. It is used in small amounts to round out the taste profile of Oreos, helping to create a more complex flavor that appeals to a wide range of consumers.
• Sugar : Sugar is a primary sweetener that is essential for creating the sweet contrast in Oreos. It not only provides sweetness but also contributes to the browning and texture of the cookies during baking, ensuring they are enjoyable and visually appealing.
• Wheat : Wheat is a fundamental ingredient that provides structure to the cookies. The proteins in wheat contribute to the dough’s elasticity and allow for the characteristic crunchiness and chewiness that Oreo cookies are known for.
• Wheat Flour : Wheat flour is a milled product that is a key ingredient in providing the foundation for the cookie base. It plays a crucial role in the overall texture and helps to bind the ingredients together, allowing for the creation of the iconic sandwich format of the Oreo cookie.

Things to Keep in Mind When Buying From OREO

These issues are related to the supply chain of the brand and need to be taken into consideration.

Deforestation:

Cocoa and sugar production are often linked to deforestation, particularly in tropical regions where rainforests are cleared to make way for plantations. This not only contributes to habitat destruction and loss of biodiversity but also exacerbates climate change by releasing stored carbon into the atmosphere. For instance, major cocoa-producing countries like Côte d'Ivoire have lost substantial forest cover due to cocoa farming.

Child Labor:

Cocoa plantations, especially in West Africa, have been reported to rely on child labor due to economic pressures and lack of education opportunities. This is a significant human rights issue, where children are deprived of education and subjected to hazardous working conditions to meet the global demand for chocolate products.

Pesticide Use:

Corn and wheat farming often involve extensive pesticide application to control pests and increase yields. However, excessive use can lead to environmental harm, such as water pollution and adverse effects on wildlife. It can also pose health risks to the workers handling these chemicals and to consumers.

Greenhouse Gas Emissions:

Milk production significantly contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, primarily methane, due to enteric fermentation in cows. Additionally, the entire lifecycle of dairy production—from feed cultivation to transportation—intensifies the carbon footprint, contributing to climate change.

Water Usage:

Both milk and sugar production can be highly water-intensive. In dairy, water is required from animal hydration to facility cleaning processes. Similarly, irrigation of sugarcane fields requires significant water, often leading to competition for water resources with local communities and ecosystems in arid regions.

Animal Welfare Concerns:

In dairy farming, animal welfare is a pressing concern. There are issues related to the conditions in which cows are raised, including confinement, lack of access to grazing pastures, and the physical demands of milk production, which can lead to health problems for the animals.

Biodiversity Loss:

The expansion of monoculture plantations for crops like cocoa, corn, and wheat reduces biodiversity. This practice eliminates habitat diversity needed by various species and disrupts ecosystem services like pollination and natural pest control, further stressing the environmental balance.

Energy Use:

The processing and transportation of ingredients like salt and wheat flour require substantial energy, often derived from fossil fuels. This contributes to carbon emissions and environmental pollution. Furthermore, energy-intensive processing can increase operational costs and challenge sustainable production goals.

Soil Degradation:

Corn and wheat farming, particularly under monoculture systems, can lead to soil degradation. Practices like excessive tillage and reliance on synthetic fertilizers reduce soil fertility, increase erosion, and can result in long-term negative effects on agricultural land productivity.

GMO Concerns:

The use of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in corn production raises sustainability questions. While GMOs can increase resistance to pests and improve yield, there are ongoing debates about their ecological impact and the long-term effects on biodiversity, leading to consumer resistance and regulatory challenges.