Breyers

Rated at 1/5 green leaves, Breyers Chocolate Chip ice cream falls at the lowest end of our clean food spectrum. This product is not organic and contains genetically modified ingredients, which already sets it back in our rating system. The presence of added sugars, specifically the inclusion of corn syrup, further diminishes its standing. Our analysis identifies several ingredients that raise concerns about potential harm, such as natural flavors, mono and diglycerides, soy lecithin, and carrageenan. Additionally, palm oil, which is often associated with environmental and health issues, is an ingredient in this product.

The Breyers Chocolate Chip ice cream contains milk, corn syrup, sugar, and chocolate flavored chips, which include coconut oil and cocoa powder processed with alkali. The cream and whey in the product are standard for ice cream. However, the stabilizers and thickeners—carob bean gum, tara gum, and guar gum—are worth noting. The use of mono and diglycerides, commonly employed as emulsifiers in processed foods, and carrageenan, a thickening agent sometimes linked to digestive discomfort, contribute to the low score. Vitamin A Palmitate is added for fortification.

The product does not meet our criteria for cleaner food options due to its non-organic status, GMO ingredients, and multiple additives. The presence of palm oil, which is associated with deforestation and habitat destruction, is an additional environmental concern. The high quantity of added sugars, particularly corn syrup, is also at odds with our guidelines for healthier food choices.

Our assessment of Breyers Chocolate Chip ice cream is based on a stringent evaluation of its ingredients and their impact on both health and the environment. With the lowest rating of 1/5 green leaves, our advice is to opt for alternatives that prioritize organic ingredients, avoid GMOs, and reduce the use of additives and palm oil for a cleaner, more wholesome product.