McCormick

Rated at 2/5 green leaves, the McCormick® Simply Better Beef Gravy falls short in offering a clean food option. The product is not organic, incorporates genetically modified (GMO) ingredients, and includes additives that raise concerns regarding health and cleanliness.

The gravy begins with beef stock as its base, which could be perceived as a positive start. However, the presence of modified corn starch and potato starch indicates the use of thickeners that are often derived from GMO sources. These are common in processed foods but are not aligned with the cleaner, more natural ingredients sought by health-conscious consumers.

Further scrutiny reveals the inclusion of salt, rice flour, and yeast extract. While these ingredients are standard in many recipes, the yeast extract is sometimes used as a flavor enhancer and could be a hidden source of monosodium glutamate (MSG), which some consumers aim to avoid.

The product also contains caramel color, which has been flagged and deducted heavily in the rating process. Caramel color is a widely used food coloring, but it is scrutinized for potential health risks, particularly when produced using certain methods that can lead to the formation of contaminants.

Additionally, onion powder and a cooked vegetable stock consisting of celery, carrot, and onion are included, which could contribute to the product’s savory profile. Spices and herbs such as black pepper, bay leaf, and thyme are also present, which are typical and acceptable in seasoning mixes.

However, the term “Natural Flavor” is problematic. It is a broad and opaque term that often encompasses a variety of substances, not all of which are transparent to the consumer, warranting a deduction in the product’s score for potential health concerns and lack of clarity.

The McCormick® Simply Better Beef Gravy has room for improvement. Replacing non-organic ingredients with organic counterparts, eliminating GMOs, and removing controversial additives like caramel color could significantly improve its standing. Transparently disclosing all flavoring components would further align the product with the cleaner, healthier options that consumers increasingly demand.