Morningstar Farms

This product receives a 2/5 green leaves rating on our scale. The Morningstar Farms Veggie Chorizo Crumbles™ is a vegetarian alternative to traditional chorizo, designed for those seeking plant-based protein sources. However, the product fails to meet the criteria for a clean and healthy option due to several factors.

The lack of organic certification results in a deduction, as organic foods typically adhere to stricter standards regarding pesticide use and farming practices. Furthermore, the inclusion of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) is another concern, as many consumers prefer foods made from ingredients that have not been genetically altered.

The presence of added sugars, specifically citric acid and sugar, contributes to the product’s lower rating. While citric acid is a common food additive that can act as a preservative or flavor enhancer, it is still classified as an added sugar when used in excess. The product also contains natural flavors, a term that encompasses a wide range of substances, some of which may not align with the clean eating philosophy.

Additionally, the use of corn oil is flagged as a harmful oil. Although it is a common ingredient in processed foods, corn oil is often derived from GMO corn and can be high in omega-6 fatty acids, which may contribute to inflammation when consumed in large amounts.

The product’s ingredient list includes several plant-based proteins like soy flour, soy protein isolate, faba bean protein, and pea protein, which are positive aspects for those looking to increase their protein intake without consuming meat. However, these potential benefits are overshadowed by the aforementioned concerns.

Overall, the Morningstar Farms Veggie Chorizo Crumbles™ has room for improvement in terms of ingredient quality and sourcing. To align with cleaner food options, the product would benefit from switching to organic, non-GMO ingredients, eliminating added sugars, and avoiding potentially harmful additives and oils.