Beanfields

Rated at 2 out of 5 green leaves, the Beanfields Sweet Onion Grain Free Rings fall short of the clean food standards set by our website. This product is not organic, resulting in an immediate deduction in its rating. While it uses non-GMO ingredients, which is a positive aspect, the presence of added sugars, including cane sugar and tapioca syrup solids, detracts significantly from its overall score. Moreover, the inclusion of potentially harmful additives such as natural flavors and citric acid further diminishes its standing.

The product’s foundation is built on navy beans and chickpea flour, which are nutritious legumes. However, the health benefits of these base ingredients are overshadowed by less desirable components. The use of safflower or sunflower oil could be seen as a neutral point, but the lack of an organic certification raises concerns about potential pesticide residues.

The seasoning blend is where most issues arise. While onion and garlic powders are common in flavoring, the addition of cane sugar and tapioca syrup solids increases the product’s sugar content, which is detrimental to those seeking cleaner food options. The term “natural flavor” is ambiguous and often encompasses a range of substances that are not disclosed to consumers, which could include unwanted chemicals.

Furthermore, yeast extract is sometimes used as a source of umami flavor but can also be a hidden source of monosodium glutamate (MSG), which some individuals prefer to avoid due to sensitivity or dietary choices. Citric acid, although naturally occurring in citrus fruits, is often manufactured using molds and can act as a preservative or flavor enhancer.

For a product to align with the highest standards of clean eating, it should ideally be organic, free from added sugars, and devoid of ambiguous additives. The Beanfields Sweet Onion Grain Free Rings have room for improvement in these areas to meet the expectations of health-conscious consumers looking for the cleanest food options.