365 By Wholefoods

The ‘365 by Whole Foods Organic Hummus Original’ earns a rating of 3 out of 5 green leaves on our website. This product is a middle-of-the-road choice for consumers seeking cleaner food options. It boasts a list of organic ingredients, including chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, and paprika. However, despite these organic components, the product does not entirely escape criticism.

One significant drawback is the use of non-organic canola oil. While the canola oil is expeller-pressed, a process often preferred for extracting oil without the use of chemicals, it still detracts from the product’s overall score due to its non-organic nature and the concerns some consumers have regarding canola oil’s health impacts. Moreover, the inclusion of citric acid, often used as a preservative or to add tartness, leads to additional points being deducted. Although citric acid is naturally occurring in citrus fruits, its presence as an additive is less favored by those aiming for a diet consisting of whole, unprocessed foods.

The product does not contain genetically modified organisms (GMOs), which aligns with the preferences of many health-conscious shoppers and contributes positively to its rating. However, the absence of added sugars is a point of contention, as citric acid is considered an added sugar according to our criteria, further reducing the product’s score.

Overall, the ‘365 by Whole Foods Organic Hummus Original’ presents itself as an organic option in the hummus category. Its organic ingredients are a positive aspect, appealing to those looking for food products with fewer pesticides and chemicals. Nevertheless, the inclusion of certain non-organic ingredients and additives means that this hummus does not reach the highest echelons of our rating system. It stands as an acceptable choice for individuals seeking an organic hummus but falls short of being a top recommendation for the most discerning of clean food advocates.