Cheetos

Cheetos Puffs Cheese earns a 1/5 green leaf rating, reflecting its position at the lower end of the scale for cleaner food options. This product, which is not organic, features a blend of enriched corn meal and vegetable oils, including corn, canola, and sunflower. The cheese seasoning combines whey, cheddar cheese, canola oil, and other components to create its characteristic taste.

The use of non-organic ingredients and genetically modified organisms (GMOs) contributes to the product’s low score. Citric acid, which is present in the seasoning, is considered an added sugar, further reducing the item’s rating. The inclusion of both natural and artificial flavors, as well as the artificial color Yellow 6, raises concerns about potential harm from additives. Additionally, the presence of maltodextrin, monosodium glutamate (MSG), and artificial flavors underscore the product’s reliance on ingredients that are often viewed as detrimental to health.

Moreover, the oils used in this snack, specifically canola and unspecified vegetable oils, are flagged for their potential harm. Contrary to the scoring, it’s important to note that high fructose corn syrup is not listed among the ingredients, although the term ‘artificial flavor’ has been associated with it in the scoring process.

The Cheetos Puffs Cheese snack falls short of the criteria for a cleaner food option. With its reliance on non-organic, GMO ingredients, added sugars, and controversial additives and oils, this product does not align with the healthier choices that consumers might be seeking. It is clear that this product does not meet the standards for higher green leaf ratings and is best avoided by those looking for cleaner, more health-conscious snacks.