Garden of Life – Protein section

Rated at 2 out of 5 green leaves, the Garden of Life Dr. Formulated MD Protein Sustainable Plant-Based Fair Trade Rich Chocolate falls short of the clean eating standards set by our website. This product does not meet the criteria for organic certification, leading to an immediate deduction in its rating. While it does use non-GMO ingredients, an aspect that aligns with healthier food choices, it falters with the inclusion of added sugars, specifically through the use of Stevia.

The presence of natural flavors raises concerns due to their vague definition and the potential for undisclosed components within this label. Such additives often introduce unnecessary chemicals into the food supply, detracting from the purity and wholesomeness of the product. This issue is compounded by the inclusion of maltodextrin, a processed thickener and preservative that stands out as a known harmful additive. Derived from starch, maltodextrin has a high glycemic index and can disrupt blood sugar levels, making it an undesirable ingredient for those seeking clean food options.

The product’s composition includes coconut cream, fair trade cacao, sunflower lecithin, potassium bicarbonate, sea salt, and monk fruit, alongside the problematic elements previously mentioned. The use of coconut cream and oil, both of which come from tree nuts, may also limit its suitability for individuals with specific dietary restrictions or allergies.

While the product does have some redeeming features, such as the ethical sourcing of fair trade cacao and the avoidance of GMOs, these are overshadowed by the negative impact of its non-organic status and the inclusion of additives that compromise its overall quality. The Garden of Life Dr. Formulated MD Protein thus presents room for significant improvement. By replacing controversial ingredients with cleaner alternatives and obtaining organic certification, the product could better serve consumers looking for truly healthful and transparent food options.