Mott’s

Mott’s Tropical has earned a 2/5 green leaves rating on our scale for cleaner food options. This rating reflects the product’s use of ingredients that fall short of the standards for health and cleanliness we promote.

The product is not organic and contains genetically modified organisms (GMOs), which immediately reduces its standing. Added sugars are present, contributing to the negative assessment, specifically sugar and citric acid. More concerning is the inclusion of dextrose and corn syrup, which are considered more harmful types of added sugars due to their processing and potential health effects.

Furthermore, Mott’s Tropical contains several additives that raise concerns. The term ‘natural flavor’ is ambiguous and can encompass a range of substances not always aligned with cleaner eating. Other additives like sodium citrate, malic acid, and modified corn starch contribute to the product’s low score. These are often used to enhance flavor, texture, or shelf-life but are not in line with a clean label ethos.

The product incorporates a mix of fruit juice concentrates and purees, which may offer some nutritional benefits, but these are overshadowed by the less desirable ingredients. The presence of vitamin C is a positive aspect; however, it is not enough to counterbalance the other ingredients’ impact.

Mott’s Tropical’s use of colorants derived from vegetable juice, fruit juice, and annatto extract is preferable to synthetic dyes, yet it does not compensate for the product’s overall composition. While the use of sunflower oil and carnauba wax is not the primary concern, they are noted in the context of the comprehensive ingredient assessment.

The product’s reliance on non-organic, GMO ingredients, and multiple forms of added sugars, alongside potentially harmful additives, results in a rating that reflects the need for significant improvement. Cleaner, more healthful alternatives without these negative attributes would better serve consumers seeking nutritious food options.