Trader Joes

The Trader Joe’s Roasted Garlic scores 3 out of 5 green leaves on our website, marking it as a middle-of-the-road choice for those seeking cleaner food options. This product is a garlic-infused spread, which primarily consists of steamed chickpeas and sesame tahini, combined with a mix of sunflower and olive oils, and seasoned with sea salt, citric acid, and cumin.

While the spread is made with wholesome ingredients like chickpeas and olive oil, which are known for their health benefits, it falls short in some areas that are important to health-conscious consumers. The product is not certified organic, which may concern those looking to avoid pesticides and other chemicals in their food. Additionally, there is no verification of non-GMO ingredients, which is another consideration for individuals who prefer foods that are not genetically modified.

A notable deduction in the product’s score comes from the inclusion of citric acid. Although commonly used as a preservative and to add a tangy flavor, it is considered an added sugar in this scoring system and thus detracts from the product’s overall healthfulness. However, it is important to note that citric acid is naturally occurring in citrus fruits and is not a sugar in the traditional sense.

The product also contains guar gum, a thickening agent that is generally recognized as safe but can be a source of digestive discomfort for some people. This ingredient, along with the others, contributes to the product being placed squarely in the average category within the market.

Those who prioritize the absence of added sugars, non-GMO ingredients, and organic certification might find this product lacking. However, for consumers who are less strict with these criteria, the Trader Joe’s Roasted Garlic could still be a viable option among the many choices available. It provides a balance between healthful ingredients and areas for improvement, which is reflected in its 3 green leaves rating.