North Country Smokehouse

Rated at 3 out of 5 green leaves, the North Country Smokehouse Organic Black Forest Deli Ham offers consumers a cleaner option in the deli category. This product stands out for being organic and free from genetically modified organisms (GMOs), two factors that align with the preferences of health-conscious shoppers. The ham is made from organic pork, a positive aspect for those seeking meat from animals raised without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers.

The ingredients list is relatively short and straightforward, featuring water, sea salt, organic turbinado sugar, cultured celery powder, organic maple syrup, and organic vinegar. The presence of organic maple syrup and vinegar provides a hint that the product is crafted with attention to quality and taste, without relying on synthetic flavorings.

However, the product does lose points for containing added sugars, in this case, organic turbinado sugar. While the sugar is organic, its addition is less favorable for consumers aiming to limit sugar intake. Moreover, the inclusion of cultured celery powder as an ingredient, despite being a natural source of nitrates, is controversial. Some consumers may be wary of any form of nitrates, whether synthetic or naturally occurring, due to their association with health risks when consumed in large quantities.

The organic nature of the North Country Smokehouse Organic Black Forest Deli Ham and its non-GMO ingredients are significant positives. These attributes contribute to its 3 out of 5 green leaves rating, reflecting a product that is better than many conventional alternatives on the market. Nonetheless, the deductions for added sugar and the use of celery powder indicate there is room for improvement. For those seeking cleaner, organic deli meats, this product is a viable choice, though it may not meet the strictest criteria for consumers aiming to avoid all forms of added sugars and nitrates.