Monin

Rated at 3 out of 5 green leaves, the Monin Natural Zero Chocolate offers a middle-of-the-road option for those seeking a cleaner addition to their food choices. This product is not organic, and the ingredients are not verified as non-GMO, which detracts from its overall clean food score. The inclusion of sweeteners such as Stevia and Erythritol, while not traditional sugars, still counts against it due to the scoring criteria that penalize added sweeteners.

The product contains several ingredients that raise concerns. “Natural flavors” is a term that lacks transparency and can encompass a range of substances, not all of which may align with cleaner food standards. The presence of these flavors, along with the use of Xanthan Gum, an additive, leads to a significant deduction in its clean food rating. These components may be seen as less desirable for consumers prioritizing purity and minimal processing in their food products.

On the positive side, the product uses water as its base and leverages natural chocolate flavor to achieve its taste profile. Stevia and Erythritol are recognized as sugar alternatives that provide sweetness without the calories, which might appeal to those managing calorie intake. Lactic Acid, a common food additive, is also present, and while it is generally considered safe, its inclusion is noted in the assessment.

The Monin Natural Zero Chocolate emerges as an option that straddles the line between cleaner food choices and those with less desirable ingredients. It avoids the pitfalls of high-calorie sweeteners but does not fully commit to the organic, non-GMO standards that would elevate its standing. Consumers looking for a moderately clean chocolate flavoring may find this product acceptable, but it does not stand out as a leader in the clean food market. Those who prioritize organic ingredients and full transparency in additive use might continue their search for a product with a higher green leaf rating.