Ben & Jerry’s Chocolatey Love A-Fair: A Sweet Treat

It all started with a craving for a sugar fix that I couldn’t shake off. While wandering around Gamuda Walk, I found myself stepping into Village Grocer, hoping to find something to satisfy my sweet tooth. Among the variety of desserts and sweet treats, I found myself irresistibly drawn to the ice cream section, where Ben & Jerry’s Chocolatey Love A-Fair caught my eye

Am I an avid fan of cocoa-based treats? Generally, I prefer dark chocolate, enjoying it in moderation when my need for a sweet indulgence or a guilty pleasure strikes. My previous encounter with Ben & Jerry’s ice cream was years ago at their now-closed Sunway Pyramid outlet, so this felt like a nostalgic choice.

Why did I choose the Chocolatey Love A-Fair flavor? I have a soft spot for the combination of sweet and salty, especially when caramel is involved. This flavor delivers on both counts, featuring salted caramel swirls, caramel chunks, and sea salt fudge chunks - all enveloped in rich chocolate (priced at RM35.90).

The packaging is both practical and informative, with the paper tub clearly detailing the ingredients and other essential information.

A Decadent Delight with a Salty Twist

Ben & Jerry’s Chocolatey Love A-Fair (Special Batch) lives up to its description. Generously packed with button-shaped chocolates, caramel chunks, and sea salt fudge chunks, the flavor truly delivers. From the first spoonful, you’re greeted with a delightful salty burst that doesn’t disappoint, especially for those who, like me, enjoy salty notes in desserts.

The ice cream itself is smooth, creamy, and luscious, melting perfectly in the mouth. However, the sugar content is quite overwhelming. After just one spoonful, I could already feel the sweetness overpowering my palate. Since I tend to avoid overly sugary desserts, I could only manage about two and a half teaspoons. That said, on days when I’m craving a guilty pleasure, this flavor would certainly hit the spot.

As for the price (RM35.90), it’s reasonable considering the high-quality ingredients, comparable to other premium brands.

One small concern I had was with the packaging. After only 20 minutes at home, the paper tub seemed less sturdy, and the lid was easily crushed. I couldn’t help but wonder how it would hold up if I had taken longer to get home.

Curiously, despite my efforts to figure it out, I still can’t tell why this flavor is labeled as a “special batch.” Any insights on that?

Zen Positive Insights

I made a point to read up on Ben & Jerry’s mission and values, and it felt fulfilling both to the mind and soul. The company strives to use its business as a force for good - promoting human rights and dignity, advocating for social and economic justice for historically marginalized communities, and actively working to protect and restore Earth's natural systems.

Zen Negative Insights

The New York Times reported that Ben & Jerry’s was linked to a scandal involving the use of migrant child labor in their supply chain, particularly in dairy farms. The company emphasized its commitment to ethical labor through the "Milk With Dignity" program, but the revelations raised concerns about corporate responsibility​(Center for Public Integrity / Connecticut Public).

Additionally, Ben & Jerry's support for causes like Black Lives Matter and the Palestinian cause has sparked controversy. Critics argue that these stances contributed to the "go woke, go broke" narrative, impacting the brand's reputation and Unilever's financial performance​(Connecticut Public).

Zen Ben & Jerry’s Chocolatey Love A-Fair (Special Batch) Finale

When it comes to Ben & Jerry’s Chocolatey Love A-Fair, the brand’s indulgent trifecta of sugar, fat, and calories certainly lives up to its reputation as sinfully delicious. I must agree with this assessment. However, it’s important to enjoy their ice cream sparingly, keeping in mind that such rich treats come with high calorie counts that need to be burned off. Thankfully, zen yoga can help maintain balance, but don’t expect it to be a quick fix for all those extra calories.

Disclaimer

This review is not sponsored or affiliated. It is based solely on the experience and insights of Ms. Krishnan N (Founder of Nava's Zen).