Ocean Spray

Awarded a 1/5 green leaf rating, the Ocean Spray Diet Cran•Apple® Cranberry Apple Juice Drink fails to meet the standards for cleaner food options. This product is not organic, and it does not use non-GMO ingredients, which detracts significantly from its overall score. The presence of added artificial sweeteners such as Acesulfame potassium and Sucralose further diminishes its standing, as these are considered harmful added sugars.

Moreover, the juice drink contains a range of additives that raise concerns. These include Natural Flavor and Sodium Citrate, which are potentially harmful. Malic Acid, while naturally occurring in some fruits, is used here as an additive and could be a point of contention for those seeking entirely natural ingredients. Pectin and Fumaric Acid, although less controversial, are still additives that may not align with the clean food ethos.

The most concerning ingredient within this product is Red 40, a known harmful additive. Red 40 is a synthetic dye that has been linked to negative health impacts. The presence of this coloring agent is a serious detriment to the product’s green leaf rating and is the primary reason for the substantial deduction in its score.

This juice drink does not align with the goal of providing cleaner food options. It contains multiple ingredients that have been flagged as harmful or potentially harmful, and it lacks the organic and non-GMO qualities that many health-conscious consumers seek. The product’s low rating reflects its position at the bottom of the scale for healthfulness and ingredient transparency. Consumers looking for cleaner, healthier beverage options would be advised to consider alternatives that offer natural, organic, and GMO-free ingredients without the inclusion of artificial sweeteners and colorants.