Trader Joes

Awarded a rating of 1/5 green leaves, the Trader Joe’s Dark Chocolate Orange Sticks receive the lowest endorsement from our clean food assessment. This product does not meet the criteria for those seeking healthier food options due to its ingredients and manufacturing practices.

The dark chocolate treat is not organic, and it fails to use non-GMO ingredients, which are two significant factors in its low rating. The presence of added sugars, such as sugar and citric acid, further detracts from its score. More concerning are the additional sweeteners dextrose and tapioca syrup, which are considered more harmful types of added sugar. These ingredients contribute to the product’s poor standing.

Additionally, the inclusion of potentially harmful additives like natural flavors, soy lecithin, sodium citrate, and glycerin raises red flags. These compounds are often scrutinized in cleaner eating circles for their potential health impacts and processing origins. The product’s reliance on these additives aligns it with many processed foods that are avoided by those seeking purer, more natural diets.

The Trader Joe’s Dark Chocolate Orange Sticks fall short of the standards set by our website for clean, healthful eating. The assortment of non-organic, GMO, and additive-laden ingredients presents a profile that does not align with the mission of providing cleaner food options. This product’s low green leaf rating reflects its position at the bottom of our recommendations, and we advise consumers to consider alternative snacks that prioritize organic, non-GMO, and additive-free ingredients for a healthier lifestyle.