365 By Wholefoods

This product earns a rating of 2 out of 5 green leaves. The ‘365 By Wholefoods Kefir, Plain’ is a cultured dairy beverage that has not met the criteria for cleaner, healthier food options as defined by our standards. It is not certified organic, and there is no clear indication that it uses non-GMO ingredients, which are significant considerations for consumers seeking pure and natural products.

The ingredient list for this kefir includes cultured whole milk and nonfat dry milk, which are foundational to kefir. Pectin is used as a thickener, and a variety of live and active cultures are present, which are beneficial for gut health. The addition of vitamin D3 is a positive aspect, as it can aid in the absorption of calcium.

However, the product falls short in terms of clean eating principles. The absence of an organic certification means that the milk may come from cows exposed to pesticides, antibiotics, or hormones, which are not aligned with a cleaner diet. Moreover, the lack of a non-GMO certification raises concerns about the potential presence of genetically modified organisms in the ingredients, which many health-conscious consumers aim to avoid.

The scoring also reflects a significant deduction for the presence of potentially harmful additives. In this case, rum is mistakenly listed as an additive, which is not an ingredient in the product. This error highlights the importance of accurate ingredient scrutiny and the need to ensure that all information is correctly assessed.

The ‘365 By Wholefoods Kefir, Plain’ has room for improvement to align with cleaner food standards. By obtaining organic certification and ensuring non-GMO ingredients, the product could significantly increase its green leaf rating. Additionally, ensuring accurate and transparent ingredient information is crucial for maintaining trust with consumers who rely on these ratings to make informed choices about their food.