Catalina Crunch

Rated at 2 out of 5 green leaves, the Catalina Crunch Honey Graham presents itself as a healthier snack alternative but falls short in several key areas. The product is not organic, which detracts from its clean food credentials, and it includes non-GMO corn fiber, yet the label does not claim to be non-GMO, indicating a lack of commitment to avoiding genetically modified ingredients.

The inclusion of stevia as a sweetener is a contentious point. While it is a sugar alternative, its presence is still notable enough to reduce the product’s score because it represents an added sweetening agent. The choice of oils also raises concerns; peanut oil is not considered a clean or particularly healthy option due to its fatty acid profile and potential for oxidation.

Furthermore, ‘natural flavors’ are a vague category that can encompass a range of substances, and without transparency, it is impossible to determine the exact nature or health implications of these flavors. This ambiguity is significant enough to warrant a substantial deduction in the product’s clean food rating.

The product does feature a unique blend of fibers and proteins, such as pea protein and chicory root fiber, which may offer some dietary benefits like aiding in digestion and providing a source of plant-based protein. However, the presence of guar gum, while not uncommon in processed foods, is another additive that some clean eating advocates prefer to avoid due to its potential gastrointestinal side effects in sensitive individuals.

Despite these ingredients, the product does not fully align with the mission of providing cleaner food options. The use of peanut oil, the presence of added sweeteners, and the vague ‘natural flavors’ are significant drawbacks. The product’s score reflects these issues, and while it offers some positive nutritional components, it is evident that the Catalina Crunch Honey Graham requires reformulation to meet the standards of a truly clean and healthy snack option.