Bolthouse Farms

Awarded a 3/5 green leaves rating, the Bolthouse Farms Green Goodness beverage presents itself as a middle-ground option for those seeking cleaner food choices. This drink is a blend of various fruit juices and purees, enriched with a selection of greens and other plant-based ingredients. It is not certified organic, nor does it eschew genetically modified organisms (GMOs), which detracts from its standing as a cleaner food product.

The product’s base consists of pineapple and apple juices from concentrate, along with mango puree, banana puree, and cucumber juice, also from concentrate. Kiwi puree adds to the fruit content, while a mix of spirulina, green tea, spinach, broccoli, barley grass, wheatgrass, garlic, Jerusalem artichoke, and Nova Scotia dulse contribute to the ‘Green Goodness’ claim. Vitamin C fortifies the beverage, ensuring a nutritional boost.

However, the addition of ‘natural flavor’ raises concerns. The term ‘natural flavor’ is broad and often encompasses a range of substances that may not align with the goal of consuming cleaner, more transparent food products. This lack of specificity regarding flavoring ingredients is a significant factor in the product’s score.

The absence of an organic certification means that the ingredients may have been cultivated using conventional farming methods, which often involve pesticides and synthetic fertilizers. Additionally, without a non-GMO certification, there is a possibility that the product contains genetically modified ingredients, which some consumers prefer to avoid.

With a 3/5 green leaves rating, the Bolthouse Farms Green Goodness positions itself as an accessible choice for those looking to incorporate more fruits and vegetables into their diet. While it offers a range of nutrients from its plant-based components, the product falls short for those strictly seeking organic and non-GMO options. The presence of natural flavor further clouds its purity, leaving room for improvement in the quest for truly clean eating.