McCormick

Rated at 1/5 green leaves, the McCormick® Mushroom Gravy Mix falls short in offering a cleaner food choice. This product is not organic, does not use non-GMO ingredients, and contains added sugars and harmful additives, prompting us to advise consumers to avoid it.

The gravy mix begins with a base of wheat starch and enriched wheat flour, which, while common in many processed foods, is not derived from organic sources in this case. The presence of non-organic ingredients can be a concern for those seeking out cleaner, less processed options. Furthermore, the product does not specify the use of non-GMO ingredients, an important factor for many health-conscious consumers.

A significant drawback is the inclusion of corn syrup, a form of added sugar that contributes to the overall negative health implications of consuming this product. Added sugars are known to be detrimental when consumed in excess, and their presence here diminishes the nutritional value of the gravy mix.

The McCormick® Mushroom Gravy Mix also contains a range of additives. Caramel color, an additive used for coloration, is present and is considered potentially harmful. This is particularly concerning as some forms of caramel color have been associated with adverse health effects. Additionally, the gravy mix includes hydrolyzed corn gluten, soy protein, wheat gluten, and corn maltodextrin, ingredients that can often be processed and serve as fillers or flavor enhancers rather than providing nutritional benefits.

Disodium inosinate and guanylate, both flavor enhancers, are also listed among the ingredients. While commonly used in the food industry to improve taste, their inclusion can be a red flag for those aiming to consume a diet consisting of whole, unprocessed foods.

Considering these factors, the McCormick® Mushroom Gravy Mix receives the lowest possible rating on our scale. The product’s reliance on non-organic, GMO, and additive-laden ingredients positions it far from the cleaner food options we aim to recommend. Therefore, we encourage consumers to seek alternatives that better align with a wholesome, healthful diet.