Monin

Rated at 2 out of 5 green leaves, the Monin Sugar Free Pomegranate syrup is a product that falls short in the clean food category. This non-organic syrup contains both natural and artificial ingredients that raise concerns regarding its health impact.

The absence of organic certification means that the ingredients may have been exposed to pesticides and other chemicals during their cultivation. Additionally, the lack of a non-GMO verification suggests the potential use of genetically modified organisms in the product, which some consumers aim to avoid due to environmental and health considerations.

The product includes erythritol and citric acid, which are considered added sugars. Erythritol, a sugar alcohol, is often used as a low-calorie sweetener, but its presence detracts from the product’s naturalness. Citric acid, while occurring naturally in citrus fruits, is commonly synthesized for use in food and beverage products, thus contributing to the deduction in the overall score.

A more significant concern is the inclusion of sucralose, an artificial sweetener that is many times sweeter than sugar. Its impact on health is debated, but it is generally less favored by those seeking clean eating options. Furthermore, sucralose is known to remain in the environment long after it has been consumed and passed through the body, which raises environmental issues.

The term “natural flavors” can encompass a wide range of ingredients, some of which may not align with clean eating principles. Without transparency about what these flavors are, their inclusion is problematic. Potassium sorbate, a preservative, is essential for extending the product’s shelf life but is another additive that those seeking cleaner food options might prefer to avoid.

The Monin Sugar Free Pomegranate syrup, with its combination of non-organic, GMO, and artificial ingredients, alongside additives and preservatives, is not aligned with the principles of clean eating. Its score reflects its distance from the ideal of a clean food product, and it stands as a reminder that even sugar-free options can harbor ingredients that do not meet the standards for health-conscious consumers.