Progresso

Rated at 1/5 green leaves, the Progresso Traditional Cheese Tortellini in Garden Vegetable Tomato is a product that raises concerns for those seeking cleaner food options. This pre-made soup is not organic and includes genetically modified ingredients, detracting from its potential health benefits and environmental sustainability.

The presence of added sugars and citric acid contributes to the product’s low rating. These ingredients are often used to enhance flavor but can have negative implications on overall health when consumed in excess. Moreover, the inclusion of potentially harmful additives such as modified food starch and known harmful additives like carrageenan further reduces the product’s standing. Carrageenan, in particular, has been linked to gastrointestinal inflammation and other health issues, making its presence unwelcome for health-conscious consumers.

Another point of contention is the use of soybean oil, an ingredient often sourced from genetically modified crops and processed using methods that may leave harmful residues. The health impacts of consuming such oils are debated, but they are generally not favored in cleaner food products.

The product’s composition also features a variety of vegetables such as tomatoes, zucchini, carrots, and spinach, which could have been positive attributes if not overshadowed by the aforementioned concerns. The cheese tortellini, while potentially appealing to some consumers, is nonetheless part of a formulation that does not align with the values of those seeking cleaner, more wholesome food options.

The overall rating reflects a stance that encourages consumers to seek alternatives that prioritize organic ingredients, avoid GMOs, and exclude added sugars and harmful additives. The Progresso Traditional Cheese Tortellini in Garden Vegetable Tomato, as it stands, does not meet these criteria and is therefore recommended to be avoided by those aiming for a diet centered around clean eating.