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The Untold Truth About Girl Scout Cookies
Girl Scout Cookies have become a beloved tradition for many people. From their irresistible flavors to the sense of nostalgia they evoke, these cookies hold a special place in the hearts of cookie lovers everywhere. But how much do we really know about these delicious treats? In this article, we will uncover the untold truth about Girl Scout Cookies, revealing fascinating facts and surprising details about these iconic cookies.
Different places, different cookies
If you’ve ever had a conversation about Girl Scout cookies with a friend from another area, you might be surprised to learn that you might be talking about completely different cookies, even if you both mention Thin Mints. This is because Girl Scout Cookies are made by two different bakeries: ABC Bakers and Little Brownie Bakers. These two bakeries have their own unique variations of the same cookie, resulting in some shocking differences when you compare them side-by-side.
For example, the S’mores cookie can be a chocolate-covered graham cracker with a thin layer of vanilla and marshmallow, or a sandwich cookie with frosting and fudge in the center, no chocolate coating, and a hint of maple flavor, depending on the bakery. Even the popular Thin Mints have variations, with ABC Bakers producing a crispier version of the cookie than Little Brownie Bakers. Your choice of bakery also determines whether you get Tagalongs or Peanut Butter Patties, Samoas or Caramel deLites, and Lemonades or Savannah Smiles.
Interestingly, the bakery your local Girl Scout troop works with is not determined by geography alone. Girl Scouts have multiple bakeries to ensure greater production capacity during the busy cookie-selling season. So the next time you have a craving for Girl Scout cookies, keep in mind that the cookies you get may vary depending on the bakery.
Three varieties guaranteed
While there have been numerous additions to the Girl Scout cookie lineup over the years, there are only three varieties that you can always count on finding: Thin Mints, Peanut Butter Sandwiches (also known as Do-si-dos), and Shortbread Cookies. These three cookies have been a staple on the Girl Scout cookie order form since the 1980s. Other flavors may come and go, but these classics remain fan favorites.
Thin Mints, in particular, have gained immense popularity, accounting for about one-third of all Girl Scout cookie sales. Despite attempts to introduce new flavors, Thin Mints remain the reigning champions. Remember cookies like Kookaburras, Juliette, or Cinna-spins? These cookies were discontinued after a short run, while Thin Mints have stood the test of time and remain a favorite of cookie lovers.
Where does the money go?
When you buy a box of Girl Scout Cookies, you are not only indulging in a delicious treat, but also supporting a good cause. The Girl Scouts emphasize that 100 percent of the profits stay within the local Girl Scout council and troop. However, a closer look reveals a breakdown of how the money is distributed.
According to a 2014 breakdown by CBS Minnesota, for a $4 box of cookies, about 27 percent ($1.08) goes toward making, packaging, and shipping the cookies. Nineteen percent (76 cents) is allocated to the Girl Scout volunteer program, 15 percent (61 cents) goes to fund Scout camps, 12 percent (49 cents) supports leadership programs, and 6 percent (22 cents) goes to local administration. This leaves about 21 percent (84 cents) that directly benefits the troop.
It’s important to note that while the majority of funds support various programs and initiatives, a portion is necessary to cover the costs associated with producing and distributing cookies. Nevertheless, purchasing Girl Scout Cookies remains a meaningful way to support the personal growth and development of young girls through the Girl Scout organization.
No Cookies at Founder’s Home
Juliette Gordon Low, the founder of the Girl Scouts, started the organization in 1912 with the goal of empowering girls and giving them opportunities outside the home. Low’s home in Savannah, Georgia, became an important site for the Girl Scouts. However, controversy arose in 2010 when the sale of cookies outside Low’s home, now a National Historic Landmark, was deemed unacceptable.
Despite some disagreement among city officials, a single complaint led to a ban on cookie sales outside the founder’s home. This decision sparked international news coverage and heated debate. Eventually, in March 2011, new legislation was passed allowing the Girl Scouts to resume selling cookies as long as they kept the sidewalks clear. The incident highlighted the passion and dedication of Girl Scouts and their commitment to their organization’s values.
The Palm Oil Catch-22
Palm oil, a versatile ingredient used in many foods, including some Girl Scout cookies, has been the subject of concern for its environmental impact. Palm oil production has been linked to deforestation, habitat destruction, and loss of biodiversity in the regions where it is grown.
In response to these concerns, the Girl Scouts made a commitment in 2007 to use only sustainably sourced palm oil in their cookies. They joined the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO), an organization that promotes the use of sustainable palm oil and sets standards for its production. The Girl Scouts’ partnership with the RSPO demonstrates their commitment to environmental stewardship and their efforts to mitigate the negative impacts of palm oil production.
However, it is important to note that not all Girl Scout cookies are palm oil free. Some varieties still contain this ingredient, even though it is sustainably sourced. As conscientious consumers, it is important to be aware of the ingredients in the products we consume and to support companies that prioritize sustainable practices.
Making a difference with every cookie
Beyond the delicious taste and the joy they bring, Girl Scout Cookies play an important role in empowering young girls and teaching them valuable skills. The Girl Scout Cookie Program is not just about selling cookies; it’s a comprehensive business experience that helps girls develop important life skills such as goal setting, decision-making, money management, and teamwork.
Through the Girl Scout Cookie Program, girls learn to set goals, manage their finances, interact with customers, and work as a team to achieve common goals. These skills are invaluable and can have a lasting impact on their personal and professional development.
In addition, funds raised through cookie sales enable Girl Scouts to participate in a variety of activities, attend camps, complete community service projects, and explore educational opportunities. By purchasing Girl Scout Cookies, you are directly contributing to the growth and empowerment of young girls, helping them become the confident leaders of tomorrow.
Bottom line
Girl Scout Cookies have a rich history and a significant impact on the lives of girls and the communities they serve. From the variations of cookies produced by different bakeries to the guaranteed classics that have stood the test of time, these cookies hold a special place in the hearts of many.
As a consumer, it is important to understand the complexities and nuances surrounding Girl Scout Cookies. By supporting the cookie program, you are not only indulging in delicious treats, but also making a meaningful contribution to the development of young girls and supporting the various programs and initiatives of the Girl Scout organization.
So the next time you see a group of enthusiastic Girl Scouts selling cookies, remember the untold truths behind these delicious treats and the positive impact they have on girls and the communities they represent.
FAQS
Variations of Girl Scout Cookies include Thin Mints, Tagalongs/Peanut Butter Patties, Samoas/Caramel deLites, S’mores, Lemonades/Savannah Smiles, and more. Specific variations may vary depending on the bakery that produces the cookies.
Why do Girl Scout Cookies taste and look different in different regions?
Girl Scout Cookies taste and look different in different regions because they are made by two different bakeries: ABC Bakers and Little Brownie Bakers. Each bakery has its own unique recipes and methods, resulting in variations of the same cookie depending on the bakery serving a particular region.
What are the classic Girl Scout cookies that have remained consistent over the years?
The classic Girl Scout cookies that have remained consistent over the years are Thin Mints, Peanut Butter Sandwiches (Do-si-dos), and Shortbread Cookies (Trefoil). These timeless favorites have been available since the 1980s and continue to be popular with cookie lovers.
Where does the money from Girl Scout cookie sales go?
Money from Girl Scout cookie sales stays within the local Girl Scout council and the troops themselves. A breakdown of the funds shows that a portion is used to cover cookie production, packaging, and shipping costs. The remaining funds support various programs, volunteer initiatives, Scout camps, leadership development, and local administration, with a percentage going directly to the troop.
Are all Girl Scout cookies made with sustainable palm oil?
While the Girl Scouts made a commitment in 2007 to use only sustainably sourced palm oil in their cookies, not all varieties are completely palm oil free. Some Girl Scout cookies still contain sustainably sourced palm oil, reflecting the organization’s efforts to address the environmental concerns associated with palm oil production.
What skills do Girl Scouts learn through the cookie program?
The Girl Scout Cookie Program provides girls with a comprehensive business experience that helps them develop important life skills. Through the program, girls learn about goal setting, decision-making, money management, customer interaction, and teamwork. These skills contribute to their personal growth, self-confidence, and future success.