Sabra

Rated at 2/5 green leaves, the Sabra Lemon Twist Hummus falls short in the realm of clean eating. This product does not boast organic ingredients, nor does it steer clear of GMOs. It contains citric acid, which, despite its presence in fruits naturally, is often used as an added sugar in processed foods. The inclusion of “natural flavor” and potassium sorbate raises concerns due to their potentially harmful effects. Additionally, soybean oil, a contentious ingredient often sourced from GMO crops and high in omega-6 fatty acids, detracts from the product’s nutritional profile.

The Sabra Lemon Twist is composed of cooked chickpeas, tahini, soybean oil, garlic, salt, citric acid, potassium sorbate, natural flavor, parsley, malic acid, lemon oil, dried lemon peel, and lemon juice. The absence of organic certification leads to the deduction of points, suggesting that there may be pesticide or herbicide residues present. The presence of GMOs is another red flag, as many consumers seeking clean food options aim to avoid genetically modified organisms due to concerns about their impact on health and the environment.

Citric acid, while naturally occurring in citrus fruits, is often manufactured using molds and sugar substrates, which can be from GMO sources. This earns a negative mark against the product’s clean food status. The term “natural flavor” is a broad and ambiguous term that does not provide transparency about its origins or composition, leading to further deductions. Potassium sorbate, a preservative, extends shelf life but at the cost of adding a synthetic chemical to the food.

The use of soybean oil is problematic due to its prevalence as a genetically modified crop and its contribution to an imbalanced omega fatty acid ratio, which may promote inflammation. Consumers seeking cleaner, more wholesome food options might be deterred by these attributes.

The Sabra Lemon Twist hummus, therefore, receives a modest rating, reflecting the need for significant improvements to align with cleaner, more health-conscious dietary standards. The product’s composition highlights the challenges faced by consumers in identifying truly clean and healthy food choices in the current market.