Oikos

Rated at 2/5 green leaves, the Oikos Blended Vanilla Bean yogurt offers a vanilla-flavored option within the dairy aisle. This product is not organic, and the inclusion of GMO ingredients further detracts from its clean food status. The addition of cane sugar contributes unnecessary added sugars to the consumer’s diet. Moreover, the presence of natural flavors raises concerns due to their ambiguous composition, which could involve potentially harmful additives.

The ingredient list reveals the use of cultured non-fat milk as the base, complemented by water and cane sugar for sweetness. Pectin and guar gum serve as thickeners to achieve the desired consistency, while vanilla bean specks aim to provide the vanilla essence. Lemon juice concentrate is included, possibly to balance the sweetness and add a hint of tartness. The product is fortified with Vitamin D3, a beneficial nutrient.

However, the health-conscious consumer may take issue with several aspects of this product. The absence of an organic certification means that the milk used could come from farms that do not adhere to organic farming standards, which typically prohibit the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers. The non-GMO claim is not substantiated, indicating that genetically modified ingredients may be present.

The use of cane sugar, although a natural sweetener, is a point of contention as it contributes to the added sugar content. The term “natural flavors” is problematic due to its lack of specificity; it often encompasses a range of substances that may not align with the ideals of clean eating.

For those seeking cleaner food options, the Oikos Blended Vanilla Bean falls short of expectations. The product’s composition reflects a need for reformulation to eliminate added sugars, clarify the nature of its flavors, and transition to organic, non-GMO ingredients to enhance its healthfulness and align with the demand for purer food choices.