Trader Joes

Rated at 1/5 green leaves, the Trader Joe’s Baked Lemon Ricotta Cheese falls short in meeting the standards for cleaner food options. This product is not organic, and it does not use non-GMO ingredients, which significantly impacts its rating. The inclusion of added sugars, specifically sugar, citric acid, and fructose, further detracts from its score. More concerning is the presence of glucose, a form of added sugar that contributes to the product’s low evaluation. Additionally, the use of natural lemon flavor, categorized as a potentially harmful additive, raises red flags.

The ingredient list for this product begins with ricotta cheese, which is a simple combination of whey, milk, and salt. However, the product’s healthfulness is compromised by the addition of sugar and lemon paste, which includes lemon peel and a glucose-fructose syrup derived from wheat. This syrup is a source of added glucose. Citric acid, another form of added sugar, is also present, although it is commonly used for its preservative qualities and sour taste.

The stabilizer blend in the product contains modified cornstarch, sodium alginate, and diphosphates. These ingredients are often used to maintain texture and consistency, but they are viewed cautiously by those seeking cleaner food options. Turmeric powder is used for color, which is one of the less contentious ingredients, as it is a natural spice with potential health benefits.

Given these considerations, the Trader Joe’s Baked Lemon Ricotta Cheese is assigned the lowest green leaf rating available on the website. The product’s composition, featuring non-organic and GMO ingredients, added sugars, and potentially harmful additives, positions it as a less desirable choice for consumers seeking cleaner and healthier food alternatives. Shoppers are advised to consider these factors when making purchasing decisions and to explore other products that align more closely with the criteria for a higher green leaf rating.