Breyers

Rated at 1/5 green leaves, Breyers Black Raspberry Chocolate ice cream falls significantly short on our scale for cleaner food options. This product is not organic and contains genetically modified ingredients, which immediately reduces its standing. It includes added sugars in the form of sugar and citric acid, as well as high-fructose corn syrup, which is a more concerning sweetener due to its potential health impacts.

The ingredient list reveals the presence of natural flavors, mono and diglycerides, soy lecithin, and carrageenan. Natural flavors are often criticized for their vague origins and potential health effects. Mono and diglycerides, which are emulsifiers, along with soy lecithin, raise questions about their necessity and safety in food products. Carrageenan, in particular, is flagged for its potential inflammatory properties and is a known harmful additive.

Additionally, the product contains palm oil derivatives, which are not only environmentally contentious due to deforestation concerns but also considered less healthy oil options. The use of fruit and vegetable juice for color is a positive aspect, as it suggests a preference for natural coloring agents over synthetic ones. However, this does not compensate for the product’s other shortcomings.

The ice cream also contains dairy, whey, and cocoa processed with alkali, which are common ingredients in many frozen desserts. The inclusion of carob bean, guar, and tara gums are typical as thickeners or stabilizers in ice cream. Pectin, a natural thickener, is also used, and vitamin A palmitate is added for nutritional fortification.

This product is rated poorly due to its non-organic status, GMO ingredients, and the inclusion of several additives and sugars that are considered harmful. Our advice is to avoid this ice cream in favor of cleaner, more health-conscious alternatives that align better with a diet focused on wholesome and minimally processed foods.