Betty Crocker

Rated at 2/5 green leaves, the Betty Crocker Fruit Flavored Snacks Sonic The Hedgehog falls short of cleaner food standards. The product is not organic, which detracts from its potential healthiness and environmental sustainability. Additionally, it contains genetically modified (GMO) ingredients, raising concerns for those seeking non-GMO diets.

The snacks have added sugars, with sugar and citric acid contributing to this content. More concerning is the presence of corn syrup, a sweetener often criticized for its potential health impacts. The product also includes several additives, such as natural flavor, sodium citrate, malic acid, and modified corn starch, which are viewed negatively on the health scale.

The use of apple juice concentrate is a positive note, as it suggests an attempt to incorporate fruit-derived ingredients. However, the vitamin content is minimal, with only vitamin C listed. The colors derived from vegetable juice, spirulina, turmeric, fruit juice, and annatto extract offer a natural alternative to artificial colorings, which is a step in the right direction for those concerned about artificial additives.

The presence of sunflower oil, albeit in negligible amounts, and the use of carnauba wax for texture and shine, are additional components to consider. These ingredients are less controversial but still contribute to the overall composition of the product.

The product’s ingredients reveal a reliance on sugars and additives rather than natural, wholesome food sources. For a food item to be considered cleaner and healthier, a significant reformulation would be necessary. This would involve reducing added sugars, eliminating GMO ingredients, incorporating organic components, and removing unnecessary additives. Only through such changes could the product improve its standing and offer a truly cleaner option in the market.