Hillshire Farm

Rated at 2/5 green leaves, the Hillshire Farm Ultra Thin Sliced Hard Salami falls short in our evaluation for cleaner food options. This product is not organic and contains genetically modified ingredients, which significantly impacts its rating. Additionally, the inclusion of dextrose, a form of added sugar, and the use of vague terms such as “natural flavorings” and “natural smoke flavor” raise concerns regarding potential health implications.

The salami begins with pork and beef as its primary components. However, the presence of salt, and in particular, sea salt, is notable and contributes to the product’s overall sodium content. While spices and dried garlic are common in salami and can be considered acceptable, the use of dextrose as a sweetening agent detracts from the product’s nutritional profile. Dextrose is a simple sugar that can contribute to unnecessary calorie intake and potential health issues if consumed excessively.

Moreover, the use of natural flavorings, including celery juice powder, and gum arabic, is problematic. These ingredients often serve as a catch-all for various additives that may not align with a clean eating philosophy. The celery juice powder is also used as a natural preservative, which, while potentially better than synthetic alternatives, still warrants scrutiny due to its processing. The lactic acid starter culture is a standard ingredient in fermented meats and does not raise the same level of concern.

The product’s non-organic status and the inclusion of GMOs further diminish its standing. Organic foods are generally perceived to be cleaner due to stricter regulations on pesticide use and farming practices. Non-GMO ingredients are sought after by health-conscious consumers looking to avoid genetically engineered products.

This product, with its current ingredient profile, does not meet the standards set for cleaner, healthier food options. The use of added sugars, ambiguous additives, and the lack of organic and non-GMO ingredients are the primary reasons for its low rating. There is room for improvement, and reformulating the product to exclude these elements could greatly enhance its standing within the clean food market.