Ken's Ken's Essentials Classic Caesar Dressing

Ken’s

Flavor:

Ingredients:

Soybean Oil, Water, Romano Cheese (Pasteurized Part-skim Milk, Cheese Cultures, Salt, Enzymes), Parmesan Cheese (Pasteurized Part-skim Milk, Cheese Cultures, Salt, Enzymes), Egg Yolk, Lemon Juice Concentrate, Contains Less Than 2% Of Salt, Anchovies, Garlic,* Natural Flavor, Garlic, Xanthan Gum, Spice, Distilled Vinegar, Onion,* Lactic Acid, Molasses, Mustard Seed. *Dried. Contains Egg, Fish (Anchovy), Milk

Rating:     We Avoid

Ingredient Score:

Awarded a 1/5 green leaf rating, Ken’s Essentials Classic Caesar Dressing falls markedly short of the standards set for cleaner food options on our website. This product is not organic and includes genetically modified (GMO) ingredients, factors that significantly impact its score. Furthermore, the inclusion of molasses as an added sugar, alongside the presence of ambiguous “natural flavor” and the thickening agent xanthan gum, contribute to its low rating. Soybean oil, categorized as a harmful oil due to its high omega-6 fatty acid content and potential for oxidation, further detracts from the product’s healthfulness.

Ken’s Essentials Classic Caesar Dressing starts with a base of soybean oil, water, and a blend of Romano and Parmesan cheeses. Egg yolk and lemon juice concentrate are included, presumably to enhance texture and flavor. The dressing also contains less than 2% of salt, anchovies, garlic, spices, distilled vinegar, onion, lactic acid, and mustard seed. Notably, the presence of anchovies means this product is unsuitable for those with fish allergies, while the inclusion of milk and egg yolk also renders it unsuitable for individuals with dairy or egg allergies.

The product’s failure to use organic ingredients and the presence of GMOs are significant drawbacks for consumers seeking cleaner, healthier food options. The added molasses, while possibly contributing to taste, is a source of unnecessary sugar. Additionally, the “natural flavor” listed among the ingredients raises questions about its origins and health implications, as it is often a term used to mask a multitude of unspecified additives. Xanthan gum, although widely used as a thickener and stabilizer in many processed foods, is often scrutinized for its potential gastrointestinal effects and its frequent production from common allergens like soy, corn, wheat, or dairy.

Due to these factors, the dressing receives the lowest possible score on our green leaf scale. Consumers looking for clean and healthy food options are advised to consider alternative products that align more closely with their dietary preferences and values. Ken’s Essentials Classic Caesar Dressing, with its current formulation, does not meet the criteria for a cleaner, more wholesome food choice.

Certifications:

None

Product formulations and certifications may change. For current nutrition facts and ingredient
line information, check product packaging.

Categories:

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