Trader Joes

Rated at 1/5 green leaves, the Trader Joe’s Candy Coated Chocolates fall at the bottom of our scale for cleaner food options. This product is not organic and it does not use non-GMO ingredients, which are significant factors in our evaluation process. The presence of added sugars, such as sugar and citric acid, contributes to its low score, reflecting an area of concern for consumers seeking healthier alternatives.

Further examination of the ingredients reveals the inclusion of potentially harmful additives. Soy lecithin, often used as an emulsifier, and natural vanilla flavor are flagged in our assessment, detracting from the product’s overall healthfulness. Moreover, maltodextrin, identified as a known harmful additive, results in a substantial deduction from the product’s score. Maltodextrin is a highly processed ingredient that can spike blood sugar levels and is often derived from genetically modified sources.

The candy’s colorful appearance is achieved through added colors from fruit juice, vegetable juice, turmeric, spirulina extract, and annatto extract. While these may be derived from natural sources, the product’s reliance on various sugars and additives overshadows this aspect. The protective coating, composed of shellac, carnauba wax, and beeswax, along with maltodextrin and sugar, adds another layer of concern due to the potential health implications and processing involved.

The Trader Joe’s Candy Coated Chocolates earn the lowest possible score on our green leaf rating scale. This assessment is grounded in the product’s composition, which includes non-organic ingredients, GMOs, added sugars, and additives that may pose health risks. Consumers who prioritize clean eating and wish to avoid such ingredients may consider looking for alternatives that align more closely with their dietary preferences and values.