Trader Joes
Flavor:
Spicy Cheese Crunchies
Ingredients:
Corn Meal, Vegetable Oil (High-oleic Sunflower Oil, High-oleic Safflower Oil And/or Canola Oil), Spicy Cheese Seasoning (Salt, Yeast, Cornstarch, Cheddar Cheese [pasteurized Milk, Salt, Cheese Cultures, Microbial Enzymes], Buttermilk Powder, Onion Powder, Dextrose, Maltodextrin, Garlic Powder, Citric Acid, Yeast extract, Whey, Lactic Acid, Color [vegetable Juice Concentrate, Paprika Extract, Turmeric Extract], Natural Flavor).
Rating: We Avoid
- 1 out of 5
Ingredient Score:
Rated at 1 out of 5 green leaves, Trader Joe’s Spicy Cheese Crunchies fall short of meeting the criteria for cleaner food options on our website. This product is not organic, and it does not use non-GMO ingredients, which are foundational standards for healthier choices. The inclusion of added sugars such as citric acid and dextrose further diminishes its standing, as these contribute to the product’s low score. Additionally, the presence of natural flavors raises concerns due to their ambiguous origins and potential health implications.
The product’s ingredient list reveals several areas of concern. It contains maltodextrin, a known additive that is often sourced from genetically modified corn and may impact blood sugar levels. The use of potentially harmful oils—including high-oleic safflower oil, canola oil, and unspecified vegetable oils—is another significant drawback. These oils may undergo heavy processing and could be a source of unhealthy fats.
Trader Joe’s Spicy Cheese Crunchies also carry additives such as color derived from vegetable juice concentrate, paprika extract, and turmeric extract, which, while not as concerning as synthetic dyes, still contribute to the product’s low rating due to the lack of organic certification. The presence of ingredients like onion powder, garlic powder, yeast extract, and whey are less alarming but do not compensate for the product’s overall score.
The product does not align with our mission to offer cleaner, healthier food options, as evidenced by its lowest possible green leaf rating. Consumers seeking nutritious snacks are advised to consider alternative products that adhere to organic practices, avoid GMOs, and exclude harmful additives and sugars. The commitment to cleaner eating involves scrutiny of ingredient lists and making informed choices, and Trader Joe’s Spicy Cheese Crunchies do not meet the standards set forth by our rating system.
Certifications:
None
Product formulations and certifications may change. For current nutrition facts and ingredient
line information, check product packaging.
Categories:
Alternatives
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How We Rate
Every company today has a responsibility to be a net positive for the planet,
for society, and for our ecosystem