Tillamook

Rated at 2/5 green leaves, the ‘Tillamook Old-Fashioned Vanilla’ is a product that requires significant improvements to align with the standards of cleaner food options. The absence of organic certification and the use of genetically modified (GMO) ingredients are notable detractions from its clean food status, leading to deductions in its overall score. The inclusion of added sugar further diminishes its standing as a healthy choice.

The ingredient list reveals the use of cream, skim milk, milk, sugar, pasteurized egg yolks, vanilla extract, tara gum, guar gum, and natural flavor. The presence of sugar as an added ingredient directly conflicts with the pursuit of health-oriented food products. Moreover, the label ‘natural flavor’ raises concerns due to its ambiguity and potential to encompass a range of undisclosed constituents, which may not align with the principles of clean eating.

This product does not meet the criteria for organic certification, which is a critical factor for many consumers seeking assurance that their food is free from synthetic pesticides and fertilizers. The lack of non-GMO verification further suggests that the product may contain ingredients derived from organisms that have been genetically engineered, a practice often avoided by those seeking cleaner food alternatives.

The use of tara gum and guar gum, while common in the industry as thickening agents, can be perceived as unnecessary additives by consumers prioritizing whole and unprocessed ingredients. These components, despite being deemed safe for consumption, do not resonate with the ethos of a minimally processed and ‘clean’ product.

‘Tillamook Old-Fashioned Vanilla’ has significant room for improvement to meet the criteria for a cleaner and healthier food product. By transitioning to organic ingredients, eliminating GMOs, and reducing the use of added sugars and ambiguous additives, the product could vastly improve its standing and appeal to health-conscious consumers. It is essential for food products to not only provide nutritional value but also align with the values of transparency and natural integrity that are integral to the concept of clean eating.