Trader Joes

Rated at 1/5 green leaves, the Trader Joe’s Vegan Tzatziki Dip is a dairy-free product that does not meet the criteria for cleaner food options due to several concerns. The dip is not organic, and it is not verified to use non-GMO ingredients. The presence of citric acid is considered an added sugar, which detracts from the product’s overall healthfulness. More severe is the inclusion of dextrose, another form of added sugar that significantly reduces the product’s score.

Furthermore, the dip includes a range of additives such as natural flavors, xanthan gum, and sodium citrate. These ingredients are often scrutinized for their potential impact on health. The most concerning is maltodextrin, a known additive that carries a higher penalty for its association with adverse health effects.

The ingredient list of the Trader Joe’s Vegan Tzatziki Dip consists of a dairy-free cream cheese alternative made with water, coconut oil, and modified potato starch, among other elements. Chickpea protein, salts, and acidity regulators like lactic acid are also present to mimic the texture and tartness of traditional tzatziki. Additionally, cucumber, lemon juice, and seasonings such as dill weed and garlic contribute to the intended flavor profile of the dip.

Despite these attempts to offer a vegan alternative to traditional tzatziki, the product fails to align with the cleaner food options the website advocates for. The non-organic ingredients, use of GMOs, added sugars, and potentially harmful additives result in the lowest rating possible on the green leaf scale. Therefore, consumers seeking healthier and more natural food choices are advised to avoid this product. The accumulation of these factors results in the dip being positioned as a less desirable option for those aiming to maintain a clean and wholesome diet.