Hormel Natural Choice

Rated at 2 out of 5 green leaves, the Hormel Natural Choice Sandwich Pepperoni falls short in its commitment to cleaner food options. This product is not organic, and it does not use non-GMO ingredients, which significantly impacts its green leaf rating. Additionally, the inclusion of added sugars, specifically cane sugar, detracts from the product’s healthfulness.

The ingredient list for the Hormel Natural Choice Sandwich Pepperoni contains pork and beef as the primary components. Salt and water are also present, along with a blend of spices. The use of cane sugar and celery juice powder, the latter often employed as a natural curing agent, indicates a departure from the ideal of no added sugars. Furthermore, the product includes paprika extractives and natural spice extractives for seasoning, which may be of concern to those seeking completely natural flavors.

Lactic acid starter culture is another ingredient found in this product, commonly used in fermented meats to ensure safety and develop flavor. However, the presence of cane sugar as an additional sweetening agent raises concerns about the product’s nutritional profile, as it contributes to the overall sugar content.

The Hormel Natural Choice Sandwich Pepperoni does not align with the health and cleanliness standards set by the reviewing website due to its non-organic status, use of GMOs, and added sugars. The product’s score reflects these shortcomings and suggests that there is considerable room for improvement. To achieve a higher green leaf rating, the product would need to eliminate added sugars, transition to organic ingredients, and opt for non-GMO options. The current composition of the Hormel Natural Choice Sandwich Pepperoni positions it as a less desirable choice for consumers prioritizing cleaner, healthier food products.