Dannon

Awarded a rating of 3 out of 5 green leaves, the Dannon Peach yogurt represents a midpoint on the scale of cleaner food options. The product is a cultured dairy item that includes peaches and is fortified with vitamin D3. However, it falls short of the highest standards for health-conscious consumers on several fronts.

The yogurt is not organic, which detracts from its clean food credentials. Organic foods are often preferred for their lack of pesticides and more sustainable farming practices. Moreover, the absence of a non-GMO certification raises concerns for those seeking to avoid genetically modified organisms in their diets.

Added sugars are present in the form of sugar, which for many seeking healthier options, is an ingredient to minimize due to its association with various health issues when consumed in excess. The presence of added sugars contributes to the product’s middle-of-the-road evaluation.

The inclusion of potentially harmful additives further impacts the product’s score. Ingredients such as natural flavor, sodium citrate, and modified food starch are common in processed foods but are viewed with skepticism by those aiming for a cleaner diet. These additives often serve as flavor enhancers or preservatives, which, while safe in the quantities used, are not aligned with the ethos of whole, unprocessed foods.

Cultured grade A reduced fat milk is the base of the yogurt, offering a source of dairy with a lower fat content. The use of peaches adds a fruit component, although it is unclear from the ingredient list what percentage of the product is fruit. Vitamin D3 fortification is a positive aspect, as it can aid in the absorption of calcium and support bone health.

The Dannon Peach yogurt stands as an option that straddles the line between conventional and cleaner food choices. It provides some nutritional benefits but is marred by the inclusion of non-organic ingredients, added sugars, and additives. This positions the product firmly in the middle ground, suitable for those who are looking for a somewhat better option but not for those who demand the highest standards of clean eating.