Trader Joes

Rated at 1/5 green leaves, the Trader Joe’s Chocolate Chip Pain Au Lait represents the lowest tier on our scale for cleaner food options. This product is not organic and contains genetically modified (GMO) ingredients. The inclusion of added sugars, which are detrimental to health, further reduces its standing. The presence of certain additives and oils in the ingredient list, specifically natural flavor, mono-and diglycerides, soy lecithin, canola oil, and palm oil, are major factors in the low rating. These elements are often associated with health and environmental concerns.

The product begins with wheat flour and features chocolate chips which include sugar, cocoa mass, cocoa butter, and soy lecithin. Sugar appears early in the list, indicating a high quantity. Palm oil and canola oil, which raise sustainability and health flags, are used as fats. The product also contains eggs, water, and yeast. Less than 2% of the composition includes whole milk powder, salt, ascorbic acid as a dough conditioner, wheat gluten, wheat fiber, psyllium fiber, casein, calcium caseinate, and natural flavor, alongside unspecified enzymes.

The use of palm oil is particularly contentious due to its association with deforestation and habitat destruction. Canola oil, while less environmentally impactful, is often heavily processed and may pose health concerns. The term ‘natural flavor’ covers a broad range of possible ingredients and is not transparent about what it actually contains.

The Trader Joe’s Chocolate Chip Pain Au Lait fails to meet the criteria for a product recommended by our standards. It is not an organic product, uses GMOs, includes added sugars, and contains certain additives and oils that are best avoided for those seeking cleaner food options. Its 1/5 green leaves rating reflects its position at the bottom of our scale, and we recommend consumers seek alternative products that align better with the pursuit of a healthier and more environmentally responsible diet.