Ensure

This product receives a green leaf rating of 1/5, indicating it is a choice to avoid for those seeking cleaner food options. The Ensure® Clear Blueberry Pomegranate Nutrition Drink is not organic, includes GMO ingredients, and contains added sugars, which are considered detrimental to health. Furthermore, the drink is formulated with a range of artificial sweeteners and colors, such as Acesulfame Potassium, Sucralose, Red 40, and Blue 1, which are linked to various health concerns.

The presence of Corn Maltodextrin in the ingredients list is a significant factor in the low rating of this product. Maltodextrin is a highly processed additive derived from corn and is known to spike blood sugar levels rapidly. This, alongside the artificial sweeteners Acesulfame Potassium and Sucralose, contribute to the negative score due to their potential health implications. The inclusion of the artificial colors Red 40 and Blue 1 raises additional red flags, as they have been associated with hypersensitivity and other health issues in some individuals.

The drink also includes ingredients such as Whey Protein Isolate, which may provide some nutritional benefits. However, this is overshadowed by the number of additives that are of concern. The vitamins and minerals added to the drink, such as Ferrous Sulfate and Zinc Sulfate, are positive aspects but do not outweigh the negative impact of the other ingredients.

With non-organic and GMO ingredients, along with a multitude of additives that carry potential health risks, this product’s low green leaf rating reflects its position as a poor choice within the realm of cleaner food options. The Ensure® Clear Blueberry Pomegranate Nutrition Drink, therefore, stands as an example of a product to bypass when selecting health-conscious beverages. Its formulation does not align with the standards of those seeking pure, wholesome, and minimally processed food items.