Ocean Spray

Awarded a 3/5 green leaves rating, the Ocean Spray Cranberry Juice Cocktail with Lime presents itself as a middle-of-the-road option for those seeking cleaner food choices. The product is not organic, and it does not use non-GMO ingredients, which are factors critical to its score on our scale. Additionally, the inclusion of added sugars and potentially harmful additives such as natural flavor and sodium citrate further diminishes its standing.

The drink comprises filtered water, cranberry juice from concentrate, sugar, natural flavor, lime juice from concentrate, sodium citrate, ascorbic acid for vitamin C, and vegetable concentrate for color. The use of concentrates allows for a consistent cranberry and lime taste, while ascorbic acid serves as a source of vitamin C, an essential nutrient. The vegetable concentrate offers a natural alternative to artificial coloring, aligning with a preference for more natural ingredients.

However, the presence of added sugar is a drawback for health-conscious consumers, and the term “natural flavor” raises questions due to its broad definition that could encompass a range of undisclosed components. The inclusion of sodium citrate, often used as a preservative or to adjust acidity, may also be a point of concern for those avoiding synthetic additives.

This product straddles the line between health-conscious and conventional offerings. While it provides some nutritional benefits such as vitamin C, it falls short in meeting the more stringent criteria for those prioritizing organic and non-GMO products. The additives and added sugars are notable detractors from its overall green leaf rating. Consumers seeking a cleaner cranberry juice option may find this product acceptable, but it’s clear that there is room for improvement in terms of ingredient transparency and adherence to organic standards.