Gardein

Rated at 2 out of 5 green leaves, the Gardein Ultimate Black Bean Burger aims to offer a plant-based alternative to traditional burgers. However, the product falls short in meeting the criteria for cleaner food options. Despite incorporating wholesome ingredients like cooked black beans, quinoa, cauliflower, and a variety of peppers, the burger is not organic, which detracts from its potential health benefits.

The presence of added sugar in the burger is another drawback, as it contributes unnecessary calories and sweetness to what could be a savory product. Moreover, the inclusion of maltodextrin, a processed thickener and filler, further diminishes the product’s healthfulness. Maltodextrin is often derived from corn and while it may not be directly harmful, it is a highly processed ingredient with a high glycemic index, which could affect blood sugar levels.

Another contentious ingredient is canola oil. Although it is a common cooking oil, the canola oil in this product is not specified as non-GMO or expeller-pressed, which are often considered cleaner, more natural forms of the oil. The processing of conventional canola oil typically involves high heat and the use of chemical solvents, which some clean eating advocates avoid due to potential health concerns and the environmental impact of genetically modified crops.

The Gardein Ultimate Black Bean Burger has some positive attributes, such as its use of non-GMO ingredients and a variety of vegetables, which contribute to its nutritional value. Nevertheless, the product’s score reflects significant room for improvement. To align more closely with the principles of clean eating, the burger would benefit from the elimination of added sugars, the removal of processed additives like maltodextrin, and the use of organic and non-GMO ingredients throughout. Consumers seeking the cleanest food products might find this burger to be a less suitable option until such changes are made.