Trader Joes

Rated at 2 out of 5 green leaves, the Trader Joe’s Slightly Coated Dark Chocolate Almonds fall short in the clean food category on our website. This product is not organic, which detracts from its potential for a higher green leaf rating. Additionally, the almonds are not verified as non-GMO, further lowering their score.

The inclusion of added sugars, specifically in the form of sugar and maple sugar, reduces the healthfulness of these almonds. Added sugars are a concern for many health-conscious consumers, as they contribute to caloric intake without providing essential nutrients. Soy lecithin, found within the dark chocolate coating, is another ingredient that raises flags. It is often used as an emulsifier but is considered a potentially harmful additive on our scale.

The product’s ingredient list reveals a mixture of both natural and processed elements. Almonds and cocoa powder stand out as nutrient-rich components. However, the dark chocolate’s composition—incorporating sugar, cocoa butter, and vanilla extract—along with nonfat dry milk and sea salt, suggests a more complex nutritional profile that may not align with the preferences of those seeking cleaner food options.

Trader Joe’s Slightly Coated Dark Chocolate Almonds receive their rating due to the presence of non-organic ingredients, GMO concerns, added sugars, and the additive soy lecithin. For a product to achieve a higher green leaf rating on our scale, it would need to address these issues by incorporating organic, non-GMO ingredients, and eliminating additives and added sugars. As it stands, this product does not meet the standards for those who prioritize clean eating and are looking for the healthiest options in the market.