Van Leeuwen

Rated at 1/5 green leaves, the Van Leeuwen Buttermilk Berry Cornbread ice cream falls significantly short on our scale for cleaner food options. This product is not organic and includes genetically modified (GMO) ingredients, which immediately reduces its standing in our evaluation. Moreover, the presence of added sugars, specifically cane sugar and tapioca syrup, further diminishes its score, as we prioritize foods without these components.

Additionally, the ingredient list reveals the inclusion of potentially harmful additives. “Natural flavors” is a term that lacks transparency and can encompass a range of undisclosed chemical compounds. Similarly, the product contains enriched flour, which means the flour has been stripped of its natural nutrients and artificially fortified. Malic acid, often used as a flavor enhancer or preservative, also contributes to the deduction of points.

The product’s composition shows a reliance on processed ingredients rather than whole, natural foods. The use of buttermilk powder, tapioca starch, and carob bean gum—commonly used as thickeners or stabilizers—indicates a departure from simple, clean ingredients. Additionally, the presence of nonfat dry milk and sunflower oil contributes to the processed nature of the ice cream.

Our assessment aims to guide consumers towards foods that support a healthier lifestyle and a cleaner diet. The Van Leeuwen Buttermilk Berry Cornbread ice cream, with its low green leaf rating, does not align with our standards for clean eating. We advocate for products made from whole, organic ingredients, free from GMOs and unnecessary additives. As such, we advise consumers to seek alternatives that better meet these criteria. The market offers a variety of options, and we encourage exploration of those that provide a more wholesome and transparent ingredient list.