Tillamook

Rated at 2 out of 5 green leaves, the Tillamook Orange and Cream product offers consumers a choice in the dessert category. However, this rating reflects the product’s position towards the lower end of the ‘clean food’ spectrum, as assessed by our standards.

The product is not organic, a fact that immediately reduces its standing on our scale. Organic foods are generally considered cleaner due to the absence of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers in their production, which is why their lack here is notable. Moreover, the presence of GMO ingredients further detracts from its clean food status. GMOs are often looked upon with caution by those seeking natural food options, and their inclusion here impacts the product’s rating adversely.

Added sugars are another component that diminishes the product’s score. Sugar, while a common ingredient in desserts, is less desirable for those pursuing a healthier diet due to its association with various health concerns. Citric Acid, although naturally occurring in citrus fruits, is often used in processed foods to add acidity or preserve freshness, and its added form is not aligned with the clean eating ethos.

Potentially harmful additives are a significant issue. The term ‘Natural Flavor’ may encompass a wide range of substances, not all of which are transparent to consumers, and this ambiguity is not conducive to a clean label. Similarly, ‘Flavor’ as an ingredient does not provide the specificity that clean food advocates seek.

The Tillamook Orange and Cream product has room for improvement if it aims to meet the standards of those looking for cleaner food options. By shifting towards organic ingredients, eliminating GMOs, reducing added sugars, and providing more clarity on flavor additives, the product could substantially increase its green leaf rating and appeal to health-conscious consumers. As it stands, the product does not align with the higher standards of cleanliness that our rating system upholds.