Kool Aid

Rated at 1/5 green leaves, the Kool Aid Aguas Frescas Mandarina Drink Mix Unsweetened falls short in providing a clean food option. This product is not organic and fails to use non-GMO ingredients, factors that significantly lower its standing on our scale. The presence of citric acid is mistakenly identified as an added sugar, leading to deductions, although citric acid itself is not a sugar but rather a weak organic acid found in citrus fruits.

The ingredient list reveals several components that raise concerns. Natural and artificial flavors, while ubiquitous in processed foods, are penalized for their potential harm. Artificial color, specifically Yellow 6, also contributes to the negative score due to its synthetic nature and the health concerns associated with artificial dyes.

Maltodextrin, a common food additive derived from starch, further reduces the score. It is often used to improve texture or flavor, but it can spike blood sugar levels and may not align with cleaner food standards. A significant deduction is made for the presence of high fructose corn syrup under the guise of artificial flavor, despite it not being listed as an ingredient. This deduction might be a misinterpretation, as the label does not explicitly state the inclusion of high fructose corn syrup.

The product contains tocopherol, a form of Vitamin E used as a preservative. This ingredient is typically not a health concern and can actually be beneficial, but it does not impact the overall negative rating of the product on our site.

The Kool Aid Aguas Frescas Mandarina Drink Mix Unsweetened is not recommended for those seeking cleaner, healthier food options. The mix of non-organic, GMO, and potentially harmful additives makes it one of the least favorable choices available. Consumers are advised to consider alternative products that prioritize natural ingredients and transparency in their formulations.