Green & Black’s

Rated at 3 out of 5 green leaves, the Green & Black’s Organic Almond Bar is a mid-range choice for those seeking cleaner food options. This chocolate bar has secured its rating due to a combination of positive and less favorable attributes.

The product prides itself on being organic and non-GMO, appealing to consumers who prioritize these aspects in their food choices. The ingredients list confirms the organic status, with most components, including the almonds, milk, and cocoa, carrying the certified organic label. The organic milk chocolate has a minimum of 37% cocoa solids and 24% milk solids, which adheres to the standards expected of organic chocolate products.

However, the inclusion of added sugars, specifically cane sugar, detracts from the bar’s overall healthfulness. The presence of cane sugar, noted twice in the ingredients, contributes to a reduction in the product’s score. This is reflective of a growing consumer awareness around the negative health impacts of excessive sugar consumption. Additionally, the bar contains soya lecithin, an emulsifier that, while commonly used in chocolate production to maintain texture and consistency, is flagged by some as a potentially harmful additive.

The product’s commitment to organic ingredients is also evident in its sourcing. The Fairtrade Sugar, Cocoa, and Vanilla used may be mixed with non-certified ingredients on a mass balance basis, but still, a significant 59% of the product’s composition is guaranteed to meet Fairtrade standards. This is an important factor for consumers who are not only health-conscious but also ethically minded, as it supports sustainable farming practices and fair conditions for workers.

The Green & Black’s Organic Almond Bar stands as an option for those navigating the complexities of the food market, offering organic credibility with some drawbacks due to its sugar content and the inclusion of an additive like soya lecithin. Despite these concerns, the bar maintains a middle-ground position, reflecting an intersection of quality organic ingredients with areas for potential improvement in its formulation.