Hidden Valley

Rated at 1/5 green leaves, the Hidden Valley Original Ranch® Topping & Dressing is recommended for avoidance on our website, which promotes cleaner food options. This product is not organic and contains genetically modified (GMO) ingredients, reducing its standing in our assessment. The inclusion of added sugars further diminishes its score.

The dressing comprises several ingredients that raise concerns. It has artificial flavors and monosodium glutamate (MSG), both of which are regarded as harmful additives. Additionally, the product contains natural flavors, xanthan gum, calcium disodium EDTA, and modified food starch, which are considered potentially harmful additives. The use of canola and unspecified vegetable oils, which are not aligned with healthier oil options, also detracts from the product’s overall rating.

Furthermore, the presence of artificial flavors is a critical factor in the evaluation. These ingredients are often scrutinized for their health implications and their inclusion results in a significant deduction from the product’s score.

The product’s composition reflects a formulation that prioritizes preservation and flavor enhancement over nutritional quality. The use of preservatives such as phosphoric acid, sorbic acid, and calcium disodium EDTA is intended to extend shelf life, while disodium inosinate and guanylate are flavor enhancers.

The overall assessment of Hidden Valley Original Ranch® Topping & Dressing is clear: it does not meet the standards for cleaner, healthier food options set by our website. The product’s reliance on non-organic, GMO ingredients, potentially and known harmful additives, and less desirable oils positions it at the lowest end of our rating scale. Consumers seeking cleaner and healthier food alternatives are advised to consider other products that align more closely with these values.