Flavored Tuna Creations convenient

StarKist Tuna Creations. Zesty Lemon Pepper, Hickory Smoked and Sweet & Spicy. $1.99 per 5-ounce pouch.

Bonnie: The idea of flavored canned tuna just doesn't appeal to me. Although it took me a long time to build up the courage to taste-test these three StarKist Tuna Creations, they weren't as bad as I expected. The flavors aren't overpowering and don't significantly change the nutrition. And tuna is a good source of protein that's low in saturated fat and cholesterol.

I prefer white albacore to the light tuna used in these new Creations for a few reasons. Although chunk light contains some omega-3 fatty acids, solid white albacore contains more. (Canned salmon has even more.) Omega-3s have been shown to help lower the risk of heart disease. Specifically, "Omega-3s in fish improve the electrical stability of the heart," says Joyce Nettleton, author of "Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Health." I also prefer the taste of white albacore to the light tuna used in these new Creations. And I prefer it plain. Sorry, Charlie.

Carolyn: Canned tuna fish is pretty dull on its own, especially the "healthy" white meat varieties packed in water. My solution (and many other people's) is to pour on the mayonnaise and relish.

StarKist's was to marinate white tuna in lemon, hickory or sweet 'n' sour flavors. It's a better idea than the tuna flavoring pouches that were offered a few years back in that it's easier (no mixing required). It's also better than canned tuna salad because it gives you more control over the mayo.

The Hickory Smoked is the best of the three flavors by far. The Zesty Lemon Pepper is too subtle, and the Sweet & Sour tasted too much like ordinary ketchup.

I still added some mayo to Tuna Creations, but nowhere near as much as usual. (Aren't you proud of me, Bonnie?)

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Oatmeal Crisp Fruit 'n Cereal Bars. Strawberry, Blueberry and Apple Cinnamon. $2.99 per 8.5-ounce box containing six bars.

Bonnie: Oatmeal Crisp Fruit 'n Cereal Bars are going head-to-head with Quaker Oatmeal Breakfast Squares as a portable breakfast or snack. Both have whole grains as the primary ingredient. Whole grains include all parts of wheat, oats, rice or other grains, and have been shown to be protective against heart disease, certain cancers and diabetes.