365 By Wholefoods

Rated at 2 out of 5 green leaves, the ‘365 by Whole Foods Two Bite Brownies’ fall short of cleaner food standards. This product is not organic, which detracts from its potential to be a cleaner treat. While it does use non-GMO ingredients, a positive aspect, the presence of multiple forms of added sugars, such as cane sugar and invert cane sugar, raises concerns. These ingredients contribute to the overall negative impact on the product’s healthfulness.

The product also includes enriched wheat flour, which, although fortified with vitamins, is less preferable compared to whole grain alternatives. The use of additives like mono- and diglycerides of fatty acids, commonly used as emulsifiers, along with natural flavors that lack transparency, further diminish the product’s standing. Soy lecithin, another emulsifier, is also present, and while it is not necessarily harmful, it is a point of contention for those seeking whole, unprocessed ingredients.

Cocoa powder processed with alkali, known as Dutch processing, alters the pH of the cocoa, affecting its nutritional profile. The leavening agents used are standard in baking, but their inclusion in a product striving for clean eating credentials is not ideal. Additionally, the use of cornstarch as a thickener is a common practice, but it does not align with the clean eating philosophy that prioritizes minimally processed ingredients.

The ‘365 by Whole Foods Two Bite Brownies’ contain elements that are at odds with a clean eating ethos. The product’s reliance on added sugars and processed ingredients means there is significant room for improvement. For consumers prioritizing clean, wholesome, and organic options, this product does not meet the criteria. Therefore, despite its non-GMO ingredient list, the brownies receive a low green leaf rating, reflecting their departure from the values of clean eating.