Arnold

Rated at 1/5 green leaves, the Arnold Buttermilk bread presents itself as a less desirable choice for those seeking cleaner food options. This product is not organic and includes genetically modified (GMO) ingredients, which results in a deduction from its overall score. The presence of added sugars, specifically sugar and citric acid, further diminishes its standing as a health-conscious selection. Moreover, the inclusion of enriched wheat flour and soy lecithin raises concerns about potentially harmful additives. The use of soybean oil, categorized as a harmful oil, also contributes negatively to the product’s evaluation.

The bread’s base is made from enriched wheat flour, which, while common in many processed foods, often signals a product less aligned with whole food principles. The enrichment process typically involves the addition of synthetic vitamins to replace those lost during processing. Additionally, buttermilk, a traditional ingredient, features prominently, yet the benefits are overshadowed by the aforementioned drawbacks. The use of cultured and fermented wheat flours could be seen as positives, as they may offer digestive benefits, but these are not enough to counteract the other ingredients’ impact.

The manufacturing process also includes soy lecithin, an emulsifier that, although widely used, is scrutinized for its potential health implications. Grain vinegar and citric acid, while natural preservatives, are also counted as added sugars in this scoring system, further detracting from the product’s profile.

Consumers are advised to consider alternative options, as the Arnold Buttermilk bread does not meet the criteria of a cleaner food product. This advice stems from the product’s non-organic status, the presence of GMOs, added sugars, potentially harmful additives, and harmful oils. While it is readily available on the market, its low green leaf rating suggests that health-conscious consumers should seek other bread products that better align with the values of whole and clean eating.