Trader Joes
Flavor:
Cold Brew Iced Tea Black Tea + Lemon
Ingredients:
Black Tea, Lemon Powder (Crystallized Lemon [citric Acid {acidulant}, Lemon Oil, Lemon Juice, Ascorbic Acid {to Preserve}], Dried Cane Syrup), Black Tea Extract, Natural Flavors, Citric Acid (Acidulant)
Rating: Not Clean
- 2 out of 5
Ingredient Score:
This product receives a 2/5 green leaves rating. The ‘Trader Joes Cold Brew Iced Tea Black Tea + Lemon’ is a non-organic beverage that includes both GMO ingredients and added sugars. The presence of citric acid and dried cane syrup contribute to its lower score, as these are considered less desirable in a product aiming for a clean label. Furthermore, the inclusion of natural flavors raises concerns due to their ambiguous nature and potential for containing undisclosed compounds.
The product’s formulation begins with black tea, a common base for iced tea beverages. However, the addition of lemon powder, while contributing to the product’s taste profile, introduces crystallized lemon components such as citric acid and ascorbic acid, which are added for flavor and preservation, respectively. The use of dried cane syrup as a sweetener detracts from the product’s clean food goal due to its status as an added sugar, which is often discouraged in health-focused nutrition.
Additionally, the product contains black tea extract, which intensifies the tea flavor, and citric acid, which serves as an acidulant to maintain pH levels and add a tartness to the beverage. However, the citric acid also falls into the category of added sugars, further diminishing the product’s rating.
The term “natural flavors” is one of the more contentious ingredients listed. This term is not clearly defined by regulatory agencies and can encompass a wide range of substances, some of which may not align with a clean eating philosophy. The ambiguity surrounding natural flavors is a significant factor in the product’s lower rating.
The product does not boast an organic certification, which suggests the possibility of pesticide use in the growing process of its ingredients. This, coupled with the lack of a non-GMO certification, results in additional deductions from its overall score.
Trader Joe’s Cold Brew Iced Tea Black Tea + Lemon has room for improvement to meet the standards of those seeking cleaner, more transparent food options. Achieving an organic certification, eliminating GMO ingredients, and removing added sugars and ambiguous additives would enhance the product’s standing within the clean food market.
Certifications:
None
Product formulations and certifications may change. For current nutrition facts and ingredient
line information, check product packaging.
Categories:
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