Beyond Meat

Rated at 2 out of 5 green leaves, the Beyond Meat Beyond Beef Crumbles fall short in the realm of cleaner food options. The product is not organic, which immediately detracts from its potential for a higher health-oriented ranking. Although it uses non-GMO ingredients—a positive aspect—the inclusion of added sugars alongside potentially harmful additives and oils substantially lowers its score.

The ingredients list reveals several concerns. The presence of added sugar, albeit minimal, is a drawback for a product striving to be a healthier alternative. Citric acid, commonly used for flavor enhancement and preservation, also contributes to the sugar content and is flagged in this evaluation. While the health implications of citric acid as an additive are not as severe as other sugars, its inclusion is nonetheless unfavorable for a product aiming for cleanliness.

More significant is the critique of “Natural Flavor” in the ingredients. This ambiguous term often masks a variety of substances that may not align with a clean eating philosophy. Consumers seeking transparency and simplicity in their food products might be wary of such non-specific labeling. Similarly, the use of canola oil, despite being expeller-pressed, is another point of contention. Canola oil, regardless of its extraction process, is often scrutinized for its omega-6 fatty acid content and the health implications associated with its consumption.

The Beyond Meat Beyond Beef Crumbles offer a plant-based alternative to traditional beef crumbles, utilizing pea protein as its primary source. However, the product’s commitment to a cleaner, healthier profile is undercut by its non-organic status and the inclusion of ingredients that are counterproductive to the goal of providing a truly wholesome option. For those who prioritize clean eating, the Beyond Beef Crumbles have room for improvement, particularly in terms of ingredient transparency and the use of more health-conscious additives and oils.