Cheetos

Rated at 1/5 green leaves, the Cheetos Cheddar Jalapeño Popcorn scores the lowest possible mark on our scale, indicating that it is a product best avoided for those seeking cleaner food options. This popcorn is not organic, incorporates GMO ingredients, and is laden with additives and components that our scoring system deems detrimental to health.

The product contains a variety of ingredients that raise concerns. The absence of organic certification results in a deduction, as does the presence of genetically modified components. Citric acid, often used as a preservative, is categorized here as an added sugar, contributing to the product’s low score. Additionally, the popcorn includes a range of potentially harmful additives such as natural and artificial flavors, as well as Yellow 6, an artificial color.

The concerns are compounded by known harmful additives like artificial flavors, maltodextrin, monosodium glutamate, and again, Yellow 6. These ingredients are associated with potential health risks and detract significantly from the product’s overall rating. The use of canola and unspecified vegetable oils is another point of contention, as these are considered harmful oils within our assessment criteria. Furthermore, the inclusion of artificial flavor, which we associate with high fructose corn syrup, further diminishes the product’s standing.

The Cheetos Cheddar Jalapeño Popcorn, with its array of non-recommended ingredients, clearly falls short of the standards for cleaner, healthier food options. Our rigorous evaluation process underscores the importance of transparency and health-consciousness in food production. Accordingly, we advise consumers to steer clear of this product and seek out alternatives that better align with the principles of clean eating.