Dunkin Donuts

Rated at 3 out of 5 green leaves, the Dunkin Donuts Dunkin’ Refreshers is a mid-tier beverage choice for consumers seeking cleaner food options. This drink features brewed green tea paired with a mango pineapple flavored concentrate that includes additional vitamins like B3, B5, B6, and B12, which may appeal to those looking for a nutritional boost.

However, the product is not organic, a factor that reduces its green leaf rating due to the preference for organic ingredients among health-conscious consumers. The use of non-GMO ingredients is another important criterion for cleaner foods, and this product does not meet that standard. These elements contribute to its average standing on the green leaf scale.

Added sugars are present in the form of sugar and citric acid, which are commonly used in beverages but are not aligned with the cleaner food philosophy that prioritizes low or no added sugars. The presence of added sugars is a significant consideration for consumers monitoring their sugar intake.

Moreover, the inclusion of ‘natural flavors’ raises questions about the transparency of the ingredients, as the specific constituents of these flavors are not disclosed. This ambiguity is a concern for individuals who are vigilant about avoiding undisclosed additives in their food. Additionally, the product contains pyridoxine hydrochloride, a form of vitamin B6, which, while not inherently harmful, can be synthetically produced, and some may prefer its natural counterpart.

The Dunkin’ Refreshers finds itself in the middle of the spectrum, providing some nutritional value through added vitamins but falling short of the ideal clean food product due to the lack of organic certification, the presence of GMOs, added sugars, and certain additives. Consumers seeking a moderately clean option may consider this product, but those with strict standards for organic and non-GMO ingredients, as well as minimal additives, might look elsewhere.