Monin

Awarded a 3/5 green leaves rating, the Monin Natural Zero Hazelnut is positioned as a middle-ground option for those seeking cleaner food choices. This product aims to cater to health-conscious consumers by offering a flavoring solution that avoids traditional sugars and high-calorie content.

The ingredient list for Monin Natural Zero Hazelnut features water, erythritol, natural flavors, stevia sweetener, xanthan gum, sea salt, and lactic acid. Notably, it does not hold an organic certification, nor does it claim to use non-GMO ingredients, both factors that reduce its green leaves score. The inclusion of erythritol and stevia, both sugar substitutes, further impacts the rating since the website criteria penalize added sweeteners, regardless of their caloric value or glycemic index.

The presence of “natural flavors” and xanthan gum in the ingredients list has led to a significant deduction in the score, as these are deemed potentially harmful additives. The term “natural flavors” is broad and can encompass a variety of substances, which may raise concerns among those striving for transparency and simplicity in their food products. Xanthan gum, a common thickener and stabilizer, although generally recognized as safe, is often scrutinized by clean eating advocates.

The Monin Natural Zero Hazelnut product, therefore, represents a compromise. It offers a sweetening alternative that avoids traditional sugars and reduces calorie count, which could be appealing for those trying to manage their sugar intake. However, the lack of organic and non-GMO credentials, along with the inclusion of certain ingredients that are flagged by the website’s scoring system, prevents it from achieving a higher rating.

For individuals prioritizing a cleaner diet, this product stands as an option that has room for improvement. It serves as an example of a product that straddles the line between health-oriented aspirations and the realities of food product formulation.