Hood

Rated at 1/5 green leaves, the ‘Hood Chocolate Chip’ ice cream is a product that falls significantly short of the cleaner food options we aim to highlight. This rating reflects the presence of multiple ingredients that are not aligned with a healthier dietary choice.

The product is not organic and contains GMO ingredients. It also includes a variety of added sugars, such as sugar and fructose, which are often associated with negative health impacts when consumed in excess. The inclusion of corn syrup further detracts from its nutritional value, and the presence of high fructose corn syrup amplifies these concerns due to its link with various health issues.

Furthermore, the ‘Hood Chocolate Chip’ ice cream contains several additives that raise red flags. Natural and artificial flavors are included, but the term “natural flavor” can encompass a range of substances that are not always clear to consumers. The product also has mono and diglycerides, soy lecithin, and polysorbate 80, which are emulsifiers and preservatives that some health-conscious consumers prefer to avoid. Carrageenan, an additive derived from seaweed, is particularly controversial due to studies suggesting it may cause digestive issues and inflammation.

This product’s composition indicates a prioritization of taste and texture over health and transparency. The combination of non-organic ingredients, GMOs, multiple forms of added sugars, and controversial additives contribute to its low score. The ‘Hood Chocolate Chip’ ice cream is an example of a product that is best avoided by those seeking cleaner, more natural food options. Consumers looking for healthier alternatives would be well-advised to consider products with fewer additives, no high fructose corn syrup, and a commitment to organic, non-GMO ingredients.