Cedar’s

Rated at 4 out of 5 green leaves, Cedar’s Original with Topping stands as a healthier alternative in the market of food options. This product boasts a simple and clean list of ingredients, including fresh steamed chickpeas, a blend of sunflower and olive oils, sesame tahini, sea salt, roasted garlic, and spices like cumin. It’s a choice that aligns with a preference for whole foods and minimal processing.

However, Cedar’s Original with Topping is not organic, which detracts from its overall score. The absence of organic certification means the product doesn’t meet the highest standards set by our rating system for sustainable and pesticide-free farming practices. On the positive side, the product proudly uses non-GMO ingredients, ensuring consumers avoid genetically modified organisms, which aligns with the cleaner food principles many shoppers prioritize.

The product loses additional points for the inclusion of citric acid, which is perceived as an added sugar. While citric acid is a common preservative and flavor enhancer, our criteria are strict when it comes to added sugars, regardless of their function in the product. This decision reflects a commitment to promoting foods that minimize unnecessary additives.

Cedar’s Original with Topping does not contain any other harmful ingredients and has no artificial colors or flavors. It’s a product that offers transparency in its composition and leans towards a more natural profile. The presence of heart-healthy oils like olive oil and nutrient-rich ingredients such as chickpeas and sesame tahini contributes positively to its nutritional value.

While this product does not achieve the highest mark due to the reasons mentioned, it holds a strong position as a cleaner food option. Its score reflects a balance between its commendable qualities and the areas where it has room for improvement to meet the stringent criteria for the cleanest food choices available.