Gardein Ultimate Plant-Based Chick’n Tenders

Gardein

Flavor:

Ingredients:

Water, Enriched Wheat Flour [Wheat Flour, Niacin, Reduced Iron, Thiamine Mononitrate, Riboflavin, Folic Acid), Canola Oil, Vital Wheat Gluten, Soy Protein Isolate, Pea Protein Concentrate, Tapioca Starch/Flour, 2% or Less of: Textured Wheat Protein (Wheat Gluten, Wheat Starch), Degerminated Yellow Corn Flour, Methylcellulose, Salt, Sunflower Oil, Natural Flavor, Yeast extract, Garlic Powder, Spices, Onion Powder, Dried Onion, Fructose, Leavening (Sodium Acid Pyrophosphate, Sodium Bicarbonate), Paprika Extractives (Color), Pea Protein, Titanium Dioxide (Color), Xanthan Gum, Citric Acid, Lactic Acid.

Rating:     We Avoid

Ingredient Score:

Rated at 1/5 green leaves, the Gardein Ultimate Plant-Based Chick’n Tenders fall short of the criteria for cleaner food options on our website. This product, while presenting itself as a plant-based alternative to chicken tenders, is not organic and contains genetically modified (GMO) ingredients, detracting from its overall healthfulness.

The ingredient list reveals the inclusion of citric acid and fructose, which are considered added sugars and reduce the product’s rating for those seeking to limit sugar intake. Furthermore, the presence of natural flavor and xanthan gum, which we categorize as potentially harmful additives, casts doubt on the product’s purity. The utilization of enriched wheat flour also contributes negatively to the product’s score, as it is a processed form of wheat that may not offer the same nutritional benefits as its whole grain counterpart.

Most concerning is the use of titanium dioxide, a color additive that has been flagged for its potential health implications. This ingredient alone leads to a significant deduction in the product’s score. Additionally, canola oil is listed among the ingredients, which we identify as a harmful oil due to its processing methods and potential for containing trans fats.

The Gardein Ultimate Plant-Based Chick’n Tenders are marked with the lowest possible score, reflecting the product’s alignment with several of the negative criteria we evaluate. Consumers seeking cleaner, more wholesome food options may wish to consider alternative products that prioritize organic ingredients, avoid GMOs, and do not contain added sugars or harmful additives. Our analysis aims to guide individuals towards making informed choices in a market that is often saturated with products that may not meet the highest standards of health and nutrition.

Certifications:

None

Product formulations and certifications may change. For current nutrition facts and ingredient
line information, check product packaging.

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