Hormel Natural Choice

Rating: (1/5 Green Leaves)

The Hormel Natural Choice Oven Roasted Deli Turkey earns the lowest green leaf rating on our scale, indicating that it is a product consumers looking for cleaner food options might want to avoid. This deli meat is not organic and includes genetically modified ingredients, which detracts from its clean eating profile. Additionally, it contains turbinado sugar, contributing to its added sugars content, a concern for those monitoring their sugar intake.

The inclusion of celery powder raises health concerns, as it is often used as a natural alternative to nitrates and nitrites, but still produces these compounds during processing, which are potentially harmful. Carrageenan, derived from seaweed, is another ingredient present in this product that is flagged for its controversial health effects. Although approved by the FDA, some studies have linked carrageenan to gastrointestinal inflammation and other negative health outcomes.

The product’s reliance on non-organic turkey and the presence of GMOs further impact its score, reflecting a lesser standard in terms of environmental sustainability and potential consumer health concerns. The use of additives like potato starch, rice starch, and baking soda contributes to the product’s overall processed nature.

For those prioritizing a diet based on natural and minimally processed foods, this product does not meet such standards. The Hormel Natural Choice Oven Roasted Deli Turkey, with its lower rating, falls behind in the quest for cleaner and more wholesome food choices. Shoppers seeking healthier deli meat options may need to look for products with organic certification, non-GMO ingredients, and a simpler ingredient list without added sugars and controversial additives.