Trader Joes

Rated at 3 out of 5 green leaves, Trader Joe’s Winter Wake Up Tea is a middle-of-the-road choice for those seeking cleaner food options. This black tea blend includes cinnamon, orange peels, licorice, ginger, and cloves, which are ingredients known for their aromatic qualities.

The tea is certified organic, which typically ensures a higher standard of ingredient quality and environmental stewardship. However, the lack of non-GMO certification led to a deduction in its score. Another significant concern is the inclusion of ‘natural flavors.’ While ‘natural flavors’ may sound harmless, this term can mask a variety of substances and is often scrutinized for its lack of transparency.

Trader Joe’s Winter Wake Up Tea does not contain artificial colors, preservatives, or sweeteners, which are common concerns for health-conscious consumers. The simplicity of its ingredient list, aside from the vague ‘natural flavors,’ is a positive aspect. The use of actual spices and orange peels contributes to the tea’s quality, as these elements are commonly associated with health benefits and have been used traditionally in herbal remedies.

This product offers a compromise for those who prioritize organic products but are not strictly opposed to the inclusion of non-GMO certified ingredients or the ambiguous ‘natural flavors.’ It stands as a testament to the challenge of finding completely ‘clean’ food products in a market where even items with natural and organic ingredients can harbor questionable components.

Trader Joe’s Winter Wake Up Tea represents an option that falls into the average range on the clean food spectrum. It has its merits, particularly for those who value organic certification, but it also bears the common drawback of ambiguous natural flavoring, which may concern some consumers. As such, it holds a middle position for those navigating the complex landscape of cleaner eating.