Oscar Mayer

Rating: 1/5 Green Leaves

The Oscar Mayer Deli Fresh Mesquite Smoked Chicken Breast earns a 1/5 green leaves rating on our scale, indicating minimal adherence to our standards for clean food options. This pre-packaged deli meat is not organic, and it does not use non-GMO ingredients. The product includes added sugars, with sugar and dextrose listed on the ingredient label, which are considered detrimental to our scoring criteria. Additionally, the presence of carrageenan, a controversial food additive, further impacts the product’s rating negatively.

Upon closer examination, the chicken breast contains several ingredients that raise concerns. The use of vinegar and modified cornstarch may not align with consumers seeking whole food ingredients. Sodium phosphates are included, which are often used in processed foods to maintain moisture and flavor but can be an issue for those looking to avoid food additives. The coating of the chicken breast includes a mixture of salt, spices, paprika, and chili powder, which may appeal to those seeking a seasoned product but does not influence the health assessment.

Given the ingredients and the lack of organic and non-GMO certification, this product falls short of our clean food criteria. The inclusion of added sugars and carrageenan, in particular, leads to a significant reduction in the overall score. These components are frequently flagged by health-conscious consumers and experts alike for their potential negative health impacts.

For those prioritizing cleaner, more natural food options, this product does not meet the criteria that would warrant a recommendation. Its score reflects its position at the lower end of our rating scale, emphasizing the need for improvement in ingredient quality and sourcing. Consumers are advised to consider alternative products that better align with the goal of consuming healthier, less processed foods with fewer additives and a clearer commitment to organic and non-GMO standards.