365 By Wholefoods

Rated at 1/5 green leaves, the 365 by Whole Foods Frosted Animal Cookie falls short of the cleaner food options sought by health-conscious consumers. This product does not meet the criteria for organic certification, nor does it use non-GMO ingredients, which detracts significantly from its overall score. The presence of added sugars, including cane sugar, further diminishes its standing, as these are ingredients our criteria deem harmful.

The product also contains several potentially harmful additives. Natural flavors, an ambiguous term, raise concerns due to their undisclosed components. Soy lecithin, used as an emulsifier, and enriched wheat flour are additional ingredients that have led to point deductions. The utilization of palm kernel oil and palm oil is another critical factor, as these oils are not only associated with health concerns but also with significant environmental impact due to the deforestation and habitat destruction linked to their production.

The nonpareil sprinkles, which include colors derived from natural sources like vegetable juice and spirulina extract, do not redeem the product’s score. Although these color sources are preferable to synthetic alternatives, they are overshadowed by the product’s other less desirable ingredients. Furthermore, the inclusion of carnauba wax, a common glazing agent, does not align with the cleaner food options that the website promotes.

The 365 by Whole Foods Frosted Animal Cookie, with its composition of non-organic, GMO, and added sugars, along with the presence of potentially harmful oils and additives, receives the lowest possible green leaf rating. The product’s formulation does not align with the ideals of providing cleaner, healthier food options. Consumers seeking alternatives that prioritize organic ingredients, non-GMO certification, and the absence of added sugars and harmful additives will find this product unsuitable for their needs.