Poppi

Rated at 2 out of 5 green leaves, the Poppi Orange beverage falls short of cleaner food standards. This sparkling drink is not organic, contains GMO ingredients, and includes added sugars such as organic cane sugar and stevia. The presence of potentially harmful additives like natural flavors further detracts from its healthfulness.

The product’s ingredient list reveals several areas for improvement. The lack of organic certification results in a significant deduction from its green leaf rating, as the use of organic ingredients is a cornerstone of cleaner food options. GMO ingredients, which are often avoided by health-conscious consumers, are present in this beverage, leading to additional concerns about its purity and the environmental practices behind its production.

Added sugars, including both stevia and organic cane sugar, contribute sweetness but are commonly limited in diets seeking to reduce sugar intake. While stevia is a non-nutritive sweetener and may be considered a better alternative to artificial sweeteners, its inclusion still impacts the product’s overall health score. Organic cane sugar, although a natural sweetener, is less favorable due to its caloric content and potential impact on blood sugar levels.

The term “natural flavors” appears on the label, a vague descriptor that encompasses a range of substances, some of which may not align with a clean eating philosophy. The ambiguity surrounding natural flavors often raises questions about their origins and processing, making them less desirable in products aiming for transparency and simplicity.

This product, while offering a fizzy, fruit-infused beverage option, does not meet the criteria for a high green leaf rating due to these concerns. Consumers seeking truly clean and healthful food and drink alternatives might find the Poppi Orange lacking in several key areas. For those prioritizing organic, non-GMO, and minimally processed ingredients without added sugars, this drink does not represent the best choice available.