Stonyfield Farm

Rated at 3/5 green leaves, the Stonyfield Farm Organic Whole Milk Probiotic Yogurt, Strawberry, positions itself as a moderately healthy choice for consumers seeking cleaner food options. The product earns recognition for its commitment to organic ingredients and avoidance of genetically modified organisms (GMOs), aligning with the preferences of health-conscious shoppers.

The yogurt’s foundation is cultured pasteurized organic whole milk, which is a positive aspect for those aiming to avoid synthetic pesticides and fertilizers associated with conventional farming practices. The use of organic cane sugar and organic strawberry juice concentrate contributes to the product’s natural sweetness, while the inclusion of pectin, a common thickening agent derived from plants, assists in achieving the desired consistency.

However, the product’s healthfulness is diminished by the addition of sugars, which is a concern for those monitoring their sugar intake. The presence of organic cane sugar, despite being organic, still counts against the product due to its role as an added sugar. Furthermore, the label ‘natural flavor’ raises questions due to its ambiguity, as it could potentially encompass a wide range of substances, not all of which may align with the goal of cleaner eating.

The inclusion of organic vegetable juice concentrate for color is a thoughtful choice, avoiding synthetic dyes. The added lactase enzyme is beneficial for lactose-intolerant individuals, and the fortification with Vitamin D3 enhances the nutritional profile of the yogurt.

This product stands as a middle-ground option. It respects the organic ethos and caters to those avoiding GMOs, yet it does not fully satisfy the criteria for a top-tier health food due to its added sugars and ambiguous natural flavor. For consumers weighing the importance of organic ingredients against the drawbacks of added sugars and certain additives, this yogurt offers a compromise between health considerations and practical food processing needs.