Cheetos

Rated at 1/5 green leaves, the ‘Cheetos Simply Puffs White Cheddar Cheese’ falls at the bottom of our scale for cleaner food options. This product does not meet the criteria for those seeking healthier snack alternatives due to its composition and manufacturing choices.

The absence of organic certification costs the product valuable points, as this suggests the potential use of pesticides and other chemicals in the production of its ingredients. Furthermore, the product is not verified as non-GMO, leading to further deductions. The presence of citric acid is considered as added sugar, which is a negative factor for those monitoring their sugar intake.

Significant concerns arise with the inclusion of ingredients such as natural flavors and maltodextrin. ‘Natural flavors’ is a broad term that encompasses a range of substances, some of which may not align with a clean eating philosophy. Maltodextrin, a processed sweetener and thickener derived from corn, is flagged for its possible health implications and its common sourcing from genetically modified crops.

The product’s ingredient list includes enriched corn meal, sunflower oil, cheddar cheese, whey, maltodextrin, sea salt, natural flavors, sour cream, torula yeast, lactic acid, and citric acid. These ingredients, while common in many snack foods, contribute to the product’s low score due to their collective deviation from the principles of clean eating.

The ‘Cheetos Simply Puffs White Cheddar Cheese’ receives a cautionary recommendation. Consumers who prioritize organic, non-GMO, and additive-free foods are advised to seek alternative products that align more closely with these values. The product’s low green leaf rating reflects its position as a less optimal choice within the scope of cleaner, healthier food options available in the market.