Oscar Mayer

Rating: 1/5 Green Leaves

The Oscar Mayer Deli Fresh Smoked Uncured Ham Slices have earned the lowest possible rating on our green leaf scale due to several concerns regarding its ingredients and production practices. This product is not organic and utilizes genetically modified organisms (GMOs), which detracts significantly from its overall score. In addition, the presence of added sugars, specifically sugar and cultured dextrose, raises flags about its healthfulness. More critically, the inclusion of caramel color, a controversial additive, further impacts the ham’s rating negatively.

This ham is preserved using cultured celery juice and contains sodium phosphates, cherry powder, and vinegar. The use of cultured dextrose, which is often employed to extend shelf life and improve taste, alongside sugar, contributes to the product’s added sugar content. The presence of caramel color is particularly concerning, as it has been linked to adverse health effects, leading to a substantial deduction in the product’s score.

The absence of organic certification means that the ham may have been produced with conventional agricultural practices that can include the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers. The use of GMO ingredients also suggests that the product does not align with the preferences of consumers seeking non-GMO food options.

Consumers looking for cleaner food options are advised to avoid this product based on the outlined criteria. The Oscar Mayer Deli Fresh Smoked Uncured Ham Slices fall short of the standards for a health-conscious diet, as reflected by the 1/5 green leaf rating. For those prioritizing cleaner, more natural ingredients, and production methods that are kinder to the environment and potentially healthier, this product does not meet such criteria. It is important for consumers to be aware of these factors when making informed decisions about their food purchases.