North Country Smokehouse

Awarded a 2/5 green leaf rating, the North Country Smokehouse Uncured Boneless Maple Whole Ham falls short of the clean food criteria established on our website. This product is not organic, which immediately impacts its standing, as the commitment to organic farming practices is a cornerstone of cleaner food production. The absence of an organic label suggests that the pork used may have been raised with conventional farming methods, which often rely on pesticides and synthetic fertilizers that can be detrimental to both human health and the environment.

Moreover, the ham is not verified as non-GMO, raising concerns about the potential presence of genetically modified organisms in its ingredients. This matters to consumers looking to avoid GMOs due to environmental or health concerns. The inclusion of added sugars, such as turbinado sugar and maple syrup, also detracts from the product’s healthfulness. While sugar is a common ingredient in many processed foods, its reduction or elimination is preferable for a cleaner diet.

Another significant deduction in the product’s score is due to the use of cultured celery powder. While celery powder is often used as a natural curing agent in meats, it is a source of nitrates, and its safety has been debated. Some consumers prefer to avoid processed meats with these additives, seeking products that are free from any ingredients with potential health risks.

The North Country Smokehouse Uncured Boneless Maple Whole Ham, with its current ingredient list, does not align with the highest standards of clean eating that our website promotes. For a product to achieve a higher green leaf rating, it would need to be organic, non-GMO, and free from added sugars and questionable additives. Consumers seeking the cleanest food options will find this product lacking and may wish to look for alternatives that better meet these strict criteria.