M&Ms

Rated at 1/5 green leaves, the M&Ms Fudge Brownie M&M’S fall short of meeting the criteria for a cleaner food choice. This product is not organic and contains genetically modified (GMO) ingredients, which immediately impacts its standing on our scale. The presence of added sugars, specifically the inclusion of corn syrup, further diminishes its score. Additionally, the M&Ms contain various potentially harmful additives, including artificial flavors and colors like Yellow 6, Red 40, and Blue 1. These ingredients have been flagged for their potential negative health impacts.

Moreover, the product contains hydrogenated vegetable oils, including coconut and palm oils, which are considered harmful due to their saturated fat content and the environmental concerns associated with palm oil production. The use of high fructose corn syrup, listed under artificial flavors, also contributes negatively to the overall assessment of the product’s ingredients.

The extensive use of artificial colors is particularly concerning. Yellow 5, Yellow 6, Blue 1, Blue 2, and Red 40 are all synthetic dyes that have been scrutinized for their safety and potential health risks. The presence of soy lecithin, a common emulsifier, may also raise questions for those seeking cleaner food options.

The M&Ms Fudge Brownie M&M’S earn the lowest possible rating on our scale due to the combination of non-organic ingredients, GMOs, added sugars, harmful additives, and unhealthy oils. Consumers looking for cleaner, healthier food products are advised to avoid this product, as it does not align with the values of a health-conscious diet. Our assessment highlights the importance of scrutinizing ingredient lists and making informed choices in a market saturated with options that prioritize taste and shelf life over nutritional value.