Starbucks American Menu Cheese Danish

Starbucks American Menu

Flavor:

Ingredients:

Enriched wheat flour [wheat flour, Niacin, reduced iron, ascorbic acid, thiamine mononitrate, Riboflavin, folic acid, enzyme], neufchatel cheese [pasteurized cultured milk and cream, salt, stabilizers (xanthan, locust bean and guar gums)], water, butter [cream (milk), natural flavor], sugar, dry whole milk, Eggs, yeast, sea salt, sourdough [water, fermented wheat flour], dough conditioner [wheat gluten, xanthan gum, ascorbic acid, salt, enzymes], lactic acid.

Rating:     Not Clean

Ingredient Score:

Awarded a rating of 3 out of 5 green leaves, the Starbucks American Menu Cheese Danish represents a middle-of-the-road option for those seeking cleaner food items. This cheese danish does not boast an organic label, nor does it use non-GMO ingredients, which detracts from its overall cleanliness score. Additionally, the inclusion of added sugars and potentially harmful additives further reduces its standing.

The product is made with enriched wheat flour, which, while fortified with vitamins, is often less desirable than its whole grain counterpart. It also contains neufchatel cheese, a lower-fat alternative to traditional cream cheese, and several stabilizers such as xanthan gum, locust bean gum, and guar gums. These stabilizers are common in processed foods but are sometimes scrutinized for their potential health impacts. The natural flavor listed in the ingredients is a broad term that can encompass a variety of sources, and without specificity, it raises questions about the source and process of these flavors.

Moreover, the presence of dough conditioners and lactic acid in the ingredient list indicates an effort to enhance the texture and shelf life of the danish, which is a standard practice in commercial baking. However, for those prioritizing ‘clean’ eating, these additives may be seen as a compromise to the food’s purity.

Despite these drawbacks, the Cheese Danish does offer some nutritional value through components such as eggs, milk, and butter, which contribute proteins and fats. Yet, the product does not align with the strictest criteria for those seeking the cleanest food options available.

For consumers who are less stringent in their requirements but still mindful of what they consume, this Cheese Danish might serve as an acceptable choice. However, those adhering to a strict clean eating philosophy will likely find this product falls short of their standards, and they may opt to seek alternatives that are organic, non-GMO, and free from additives and artificial flavors.

Certifications:

None

Product formulations and certifications may change. For current nutrition facts and ingredient
line information, check product packaging.

Categories:

None

Alternatives

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