Oikos

Oikos Triple Zero Banana Crème earns a rating of 3 out of 5 green leaves on our scale for cleaner food options. This product is a non-fat Greek yogurt that incorporates a blend of ingredients aimed at those seeking a healthier snack alternative. However, it falls short in some areas that are crucial for clean eating enthusiasts.

The yogurt is not organic, which is a significant factor for consumers looking for pure and pesticide-free ingredients. Its non-organic nature leads to a reduction in its overall green leaf rating. Additionally, it is not verified as non-GMO, meaning that some ingredients might be genetically modified, raising concerns for those who prioritize natural genetic structures in their food sources.

Stevia Leaf Extract is used as a sweetener in this product. While Stevia is a natural sweetener and a common alternative to sugar, it is counted as an added sugar in our scoring system. Thus, its presence affects the product’s rating negatively. Consumers often look for no added sugars, even natural ones, when choosing cleaner food options.

Furthermore, the inclusion of ‘Natural Flavors’ in the ingredients list is a point of contention. The term ‘Natural Flavors’ can encompass a variety of sources, and without transparency, it is difficult to determine the exact composition and safety of these flavors. This ambiguity leads to a deduction in the product’s score, as it introduces uncertainty about the purity of the ingredients.

The product does contain some positive aspects, such as the absence of fat, the addition of Vitamin D3, and the use of natural colorants like Beta Carotene & Annatto Extract. It also includes sea salt, which is often preferred over processed salts. Yet, these attributes do not fully counterbalance the aspects that detract from its clean food status.

Oikos Triple Zero Banana Crème is positioned as a middle-of-the-road option for those seeking cleaner food choices. While it has certain healthful qualities, it is compromised by the lack of organic certification, potential GMO ingredients, the inclusion of Stevia as a sweetener, and ambiguous natural flavors. These factors must be weighed by consumers who prioritize the purity and simplicity of their food products.