Minute Maid

Minute Maid Mixed Berry earns a rating of 3 out of 5 green leaves on our scale for cleaner food options. This product is a blend of apple and grape juices from concentrate, complemented with less than 2% of blackberry and raspberry juices from concentrate, along with other ingredients aimed at enhancing flavor, nutritional value, and appearance.

The beverage is not organic, which is a notable factor for consumers seeking purely organic options. Additionally, the use of non-organic ingredients implies the potential presence of GMOs, which further impacts its rating among those prioritizing non-GMO diets. The inclusion of citric acid is counted as an added sugar, raising concerns for those monitoring their sugar intake. Another ingredient under scrutiny is ‘natural flavors,’ a term that often encompasses a range of substances and is considered a potentially harmful additive due to its lack of specificity.

The product does offer some nutritional benefits, such as the addition of vitamins C and E, which contribute to the overall nutritional profile. Potassium phosphate serves as a source of potassium, and the grape skin extract provides natural coloring. However, the presence of these positives is overshadowed by the aforementioned concerns regarding organic certification, GMOs, added sugars, and ambiguous additives.

This product represents an intermediate choice for those seeking healthier food options. While it does contain beneficial vitamins and is free from artificial colors, it falls short for those who prioritize organic, non-GMO, and no added sugars in their food products. The 3 out of 5 green leaves rating reflects a middle-ground option that balances some nutritional benefits with the presence of certain less desirable ingredients.