Good and Gather

Rated at 2 out of 5 green leaves, the ‘Good and Gather Plain’ falls short in offering a clean food option for health-conscious consumers. This product, which is not organic and contains GMO ingredients, lacks the purity that many seek in their dietary choices. The inclusion of additives such as Xanthan Gum further detracts from its overall quality, reflecting a need for reformulation to align with cleaner standards.

The ‘Good and Gather Plain’ is a food product that incorporates pasteurized milk and cream, cheese culture, salt, and a trio of thickening agents: Guar Gum, Carob Bean Gum, and Xanthan Gum. The absence of organic certification results in a deduction from its green leaf rating, as the product does not meet the criteria for organic produce that some consumers prioritize for health and environmental reasons. Furthermore, the use of GMO ingredients raises concerns for those who prefer non-GMO foods due to the ongoing debate around the long-term effects of genetically modified organisms on health and biodiversity.

Xanthan Gum, a common food additive used for its thickening and stabilizing properties, is a point of contention. While it is generally recognized as safe by food regulatory agencies, some health advocates question its place in a ‘clean’ diet, citing potential digestive issues and other health concerns. This skepticism is reflected in the product’s scoring, as points are deducted for the inclusion of such additives, suggesting that there is room for improvement in the product’s formulation.

The ‘Good and Gather Plain’ thus presents itself as an option that has not yet reached the pinnacle of health and cleanliness in food products. It bears potential for improvement by addressing consumer demand for organic, non-GMO ingredients, and by reconsidering the use of certain additives. For individuals seeking the cleanest food choices, the product’s current composition may not suffice. Future iterations of this product could benefit from a reevaluation of its ingredients to better cater to those aiming to minimize their intake of additives and GMOs in pursuit of a cleaner diet.