Dunkin Donuts

Rated at 1/5 green leaves, Dunkin Donuts Hash Browns fall at the bottom of the scale for cleaner food options. This rating reflects a product that is not organic, contains GMO ingredients, and includes added sugars and potentially harmful additives and oils.

The hash browns are made from potatoes and cooked in a mix of oils including canola, soybean, cottonseed, sunflower, and corn oil. The use of these oils contributes negatively to the product’s health score due to concerns over their processing methods and potential health implications. The presence of yellow corn flour, salt, and a variety of spices may seem innocuous, but the additional ingredients raise concerns.

Dehydrated potato flakes within the hash browns contain preservatives such as sodium acid pyrophosphate and citric acid. While citric acid is commonly used in food products, in this context, it is considered an added sugar which detracts from the product’s overall healthfulness. Dextrose, another form of added sugar, further decreases the product’s score due to its impact on blood sugar levels and its pervasive use in processed foods.

Mono and diglycerides are included in the ingredients list and are deemed potentially harmful additives. Their inclusion is often to improve texture and extend shelf life, yet they are flagged for their artificial nature and potential health concerns.

The product is not made with organic ingredients and does not use non-GMO sources. This lack of natural sourcing is a significant factor in the low rating as it reflects a departure from cleaner, more transparent food production practices.

The Dunkin Donuts Hash Browns earn their 1/5 green leaves rating for these reasons. They are a product that does not align with the goal of offering clean food options. The ingredients used suggest a composition that prioritizes shelf stability and cost over healthfulness and quality. Those seeking cleaner, more natural food choices are advised to consider alternative products that better meet these criteria.