We’ve all heard of the infamous question, waffles or pancakes, but when it comes to controversy, a different debate divides many more. Cheez-its or Goldfish? So similar, yet so different. If you don’t already have a strong opinion, you must at least have a preference. To truly answer this question with grace and dignity, we must dive deeper and examine each contender whole-heartedly. 

     Cheez-It crackers are 1.0 by 0.94 in rectangles and are made with actual cheese, marketed by Kellogg’s as such. With over 35 different flavors and types, Cheez-its bring a wide variety to their consumers including, zesty cheddar ranch, Italian four cheese, and even buffalo wing. They also offer many different sizes and textures. 

     Goldfish are fish-shaped crackers manufactured by Pepperidge Farm, which is a division of the Campbell Soup Company. The crackers have been available in several varieties and, since 1962, 40% of the crackers contain a small imprint of an eye and a smile. Not unlike Cheez-its, they offer a range of flavors, shapes, and colors. 

     With this basic understanding in mind, the debate really comes down to the question of texture. Yes, both are crispy, cheesy, crackers but each offers a different and unique texture. Goldfish crackers are much thicker and smaller than cheese-its. This makes them much easier to be enjoyed by the handful. In contrast, cheese-its are often consumed in smaller quantities, though both are equally addictive. 

     In my investigation of this debate, I have ultimately come to the conclusion that there is no right or wrong answer. While I would personally dub myself more of a Cheez-it person, goldfish make just as much of a compelling argument. Whether you prefer the snack that smiles back or the alternative Cheez-it cracker, just be prepared to defend your answer if ever asked the question Cheez-its or Goldfish.