Reese’s

Rated at 2 out of 5 green leaves, the Reese’s Plant Based Oat Chocolate Confection & Peanut Butter Candy Bar falls short of cleaner food standards. The product is not organic, which detracts from its potential to be a more natural option for consumers. Although it uses non-GMO ingredients, which is a positive aspect, the presence of added sugars such as sugar and dextrose significantly lowers its score. These ingredients are known to be less desirable for those seeking healthier food options.

The inclusion of potentially harmful additives, specifically natural flavor and lecithin (soy), further diminishes the product’s standing. The term “natural flavor” is broad and can encompass a range of substances that may not align with a clean eating philosophy. Lecithin (soy) is an emulsifier that, while common in many processed foods, can be a concern for those with soy allergies or sensitivities and those looking to avoid any additives altogether.

The product’s composition reveals a reliance on processed ingredients rather than whole, unrefined options. For instance, oat flour and rice flour serve as the base for the bar, which could be seen as a positive note for those avoiding wheat or gluten. However, the benefits of these ingredients are overshadowed by the negatives associated with the other components.

The candy bar’s ingredient list does not live up to the standards of those seeking cleaner, more healthful food products. It is clear that while the product may cater to a plant-based audience, it does not fully embrace the principles of clean eating. The score reflects this, indicating that there is significant room for improvement. To enhance its standing, the product would need to eliminate added sugars, remove ambiguous additives, and potentially transition to organic ingredients. Only then could it offer a truly cleaner alternative in the confectionery market.