Ripple

Rated at 2 out of 5 green leaves, Ripple Unsweetened Vanilla falls short in providing a clean food option for health-conscious consumers. This plant-based milk alternative is not organic and includes GMOs, which detracts significantly from its clean food potential. It also contains ingredients such as natural flavors and gellan gum, which are considered potentially harmful additives. Additionally, the inclusion of oils like safflower and vegetable oil, which may be harmful, further reduces its standing.

Ripple Unsweetened Vanilla is a non-dairy milk product that uses a pea protein blend as its base. While pea protein itself is a notable source of plant-based protein, the product’s overall composition is less commendable. The presence of non-organic ingredients suggests that there may be pesticide residue, and the use of GMOs raises concerns about the product’s environmental impact and potential health implications.

The product’s ingredient list includes several gums—gum arabic, guar gum, and gellan gum—which are common thickeners and stabilizers in processed foods. While these substances are generally recognized as safe by regulatory agencies, their inclusion is often frowned upon by those seeking whole and unprocessed foods. The natural flavor mentioned in the ingredients is a term that encompasses a wide range of possible substances, and without transparency, it is difficult to assess the health implications fully.

Furthermore, the oils present in the product, such as safflower oil and unspecified vegetable oils, are sources of concern. These oils can be highly processed and may contribute to inflammation or other health issues when consumed in large amounts. The use of palm-derived vitamin A is another contentious point, as palm oil production is linked to environmental and ethical issues.

The product does offer some fortified nutritional benefits, including added vitamins A, D2, and B12, and minerals like tricalcium phosphate and dipotassium phosphate. However, these positives are overshadowed by the negatives associated with non-organic, GMO, and potentially harmful ingredients.

Therefore, Ripple Unsweetened Vanilla’s 2 out of 5 green leaves rating reflects its position as a product that has room for substantial improvement in terms of offering a cleaner, more healthful option for consumers.