Stonyfield Farm

Rated at 3 out of 5 green leaves, the Stonyfield Farm Vanilla Whole Milk Yogurt offers a middle-ground option for those seeking cleaner food products. This yogurt earns its rating through a commitment to organic ingredients and a non-GMO promise. The product contains cultured pasteurized organic whole milk, which serves as a wholesome base. The addition of organic cane sugar, while organic, does lead to a reduction in the product’s score due to its status as an added sugar.

Furthermore, the use of pectin, a common thickening agent, does not detract from the overall score, as it is generally considered safe and is not on our list of harmful additives. However, the inclusion of natural flavor and organic natural vanilla flavor raises concerns. The term ‘natural flavor’ is broad and can encompass a range of substances, which might not align with the clean eating principles the website advocates for.

Vitamin D3 is also a part of the ingredient list, contributing to the nutritional profile of the yogurt by potentially aiding in calcium absorption and bone health. The product’s organic status is a significant positive, ensuring that the milk and sugar used in its formulation are free from synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, aligning with the criteria for a cleaner food option.

This yogurt is positioned as an average choice within the market. It upholds certain clean eating standards by avoiding GMOs and embracing organic farming practices. Yet, it falls short of a higher rating due to the inclusion of added sugars and ambiguous natural flavors. Consumers looking for a moderately healthy yogurt with an emphasis on organic ingredients might consider this product, though they should be aware of the added sugars and flavorings that come with it. Overall, the Stonyfield Farm Vanilla Whole Milk Yogurt is a satisfactory choice within the organic segment but has room for improvement in terms of eliminating additives and further reducing added sugars.