Ensure

Rated at 1/5 green leaves, the Ensure® Original Banana Nut Nutrition Shake receives the lowest score on our scale for cleaner food options. This rating reflects the product’s composition, which includes a range of non-organic, potentially GMO ingredients, added sugars, and various additives that raise concerns regarding their health impact.

The shake is not organic, and there is no indication that it uses non-GMO ingredients. It contains added sugar, which is a negative factor for those seeking a healthier diet. Furthermore, the inclusion of sucralose, a synthetic sweetener, exacerbates the concerns surrounding its sugar content.

The product also contains a number of additives such as artificial flavors, monoglycerides, soy lecithin, sodium citrate, caramel color, and carrageenan. These ingredients are often viewed with skepticism due to potential health risks associated with their consumption. For instance, artificial flavors and caramel color are synthetic ingredients that many health-conscious consumers aim to avoid. Carrageenan has been the subject of debate due to studies that have raised questions about its safety.

Additionally, the Ensure shake includes corn maltodextrin, a processed thickener and filler, which is another ingredient that is often avoided by those seeking cleaner food options. The presence of canola and corn oil raises further concerns, as these oils can be highly processed and may be sourced from GMO crops.

Overall, the product’s profile is concerning for individuals looking for clean and healthy food options. The combination of non-organic ingredients, potential GMOs, added sugars, artificial sweeteners, and various additives culminates in the lowest possible rating on our green leaf scale. Consumers are advised to consider these factors carefully when making their food choices, particularly if they prioritize cleaner, less processed nutritional options.