Kool Aid

The Kool Aid Blue Raspberry Liquid Drink Mix receives a 1/5 green leaf rating, signaling it as a choice to avoid for those seeking cleaner food options. This product does not qualify as organic and includes genetically modified (GMO) ingredients, which detracts significantly from its clean food status. The presence of added sugars, particularly citric acid, further lowers its standing on our scale.

In addition to the initial concerns, the drink mix contains acesulfame potassium and sucralose, both artificial sweeteners, along with sucrose, which contribute to its negative score. The inclusion of potentially harmful additives such as unspecified natural and artificial flavors, and the preservative potassium sorbate, raises additional red flags regarding the product’s healthfulness.

Most concerning are the known harmful additives within the mix. Artificial flavors and the dye Blue 1, which are components of the product, are recognized as undesirable and contribute to the product’s low rating. The label for high fructose corn syrup is erroneously applied to artificial flavor in the scoring system. However, this does not alter the final assessment as the product already falls short in multiple categories.

The Kool Aid Blue Raspberry Liquid Drink Mix does not meet the criteria for those seeking clean, healthful food options. It contains a range of ingredients that are flagged as harmful or potentially harmful and lacks organic certification and non-GMO assurances. The product’s green leaf rating reflects its position at the bottom of the scale, and consumers are advised to consider alternative options that prioritize natural ingredients and eschew artificial additives and sweeteners. This product stands as an example of what the health-conscious consumer may choose to exclude from their diet in pursuit of cleaner eating habits.