Cheetos

This product receives a 1/5 green leaf rating, reflecting its position at the lower end of the health spectrum on our website. The Cheetos Crunchy Flamin’ Hot® Cheese snack is not organic and contains genetically modified ingredients, which detracts from its overall health score. Additionally, it includes added sugars and a variety of potentially harmful additives like natural flavor and artificial colors Yellow 6 and Red 40. More concerning are the known harmful additives present in the product, such as maltodextrin, monosodium glutamate, and additional artificial colors. Furthermore, the snack contains oils like canola and unspecified vegetable oils, which are considered harmful in our evaluation criteria.

The ingredients list begins with enriched corn meal, which, while fortified with vitamins and minerals, is not organic and contributes to the product’s negative score. The presence of vegetable oils, which could include corn, canola, or sunflower oil, is noted for its potential health drawbacks. The Flamin’ Hot Seasoning, which adds to the snack’s appeal, contains a range of elements that raise health concerns, from sugar and salt to a cocktail of additives aimed at enhancing flavor and appearance but compromising the product’s health value.

The cheese flavoring components, including cheddar cheese, onion powder, and garlic powder, are overshadowed by the inclusion of whey and whey protein concentrate, which, although not inherently harmful, are combined with less desirable ingredients such as sodium diacetate, disodium inosinate, and disodium guanylate.

Given the presence of these ingredients, consumers seeking cleaner food options may wish to avoid this product. The 1/5 green leaf rating serves as a clear indicator of its standing against healthier alternatives. Our analysis supports the view that this product does not align with a diet focused on clean eating, and those aiming for such a lifestyle should consider other choices.