Nutiva

Rated at 2 out of 5 green leaves, the Nutiva Organic Hazelnut Spreads struggle to meet the standards for cleaner food options. The product boasts an organic certification and non-GMO ingredients, which are positive attributes. However, the presence of added sugars, specifically organic cane sugar, detracts from its healthfulness. The use of cane sugar, which is a refined sweetener, leads to a significant deduction in its rating.

Moreover, the inclusion of palm oil raises concerns. Despite being organic, palm oil is often criticized for its environmental impact and the health implications associated with its saturated fat content. The product also includes natural flavor, a term that encompasses a variety of substances and is often scrutinized for its lack of transparency. Consumers seeking clean food options may find the vague nature of ‘natural flavor’ to be a drawback.

The product’s formulation could be improved by replacing harmful sweeteners with healthier alternatives and by finding a more sustainable and less controversial oil. Transparency around what constitutes the ‘natural flavor’ would also enhance the product’s standing.

The Nutiva Organic Hazelnut Spreads, therefore, receives a modest rating on our scale. While it does have some commendable organic elements, the presence of cane sugar, palm oil, and ambiguous natural flavors overshadow these positive aspects. For a product to be considered truly clean and healthy, it must avoid or minimize ingredients that compromise its purity and potential health benefits. This spread has room for improvement to align more closely with the high standards of cleaner, more health-conscious food products.