Blue Bunny

Rated at 1/5 green leaves, the Blue Bunny Peppermint Stick ice cream is a product that our evaluation process identifies as a less desirable choice for those seeking cleaner food options. The absence of organic ingredients and the use of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are initial factors that detract from its overall rating. The presence of added sugars, including sugar and high fructose corn syrup, further diminishes its standing, as these are ingredients that many health-conscious consumers aim to limit or avoid.

The product’s ingredient list includes a variety of what we consider to be potentially harmful additives. These include natural flavors, mono and diglycerides, soy lecithin, and xanthan gum, all of which contribute to the reduction of its score. Moreover, this ice cream contains color additives such as Red 40, Yellow 5, and Blue 1, which are flagged as known harmful additives in our assessment criteria.

Palm oil, which is included in the peppermint candy component of the ice cream, is another ingredient that negatively impacts the product’s rating. Concerns around the environmental impact of palm oil cultivation and its health implications are well-documented, leading to its classification as a harmful oil in our scoring system.

The product also contains a range of stabilizers and thickeners, such as tara gum, guar gum, carob bean gum, cellulose gel, and cellulose gum. These are common in many processed foods but are often viewed with skepticism by those advocating for cleaner eating.

Taking into account the full ingredient profile, the Blue Bunny Peppermint Stick ice cream fails to meet the criteria for those who prioritize clean eating. Its composition, heavily influenced by non-organic, GMO, and additive-laden components, results in our lowest green leaf rating. Consumers seeking healthier, more natural food products may find better options elsewhere, as this product does not align with the standards of our clean food evaluation.