Vita Co

The Vita Co Pressed The Original earns a rating of 3 out of 5 green leaves on our scale for cleaner food options. This product is a coconut water-based beverage, augmented with coconut puree and a minimal addition of sugar. It is fortified with vitamin C, which is a beneficial nutrient. However, the absence of organic certification and the use of non-GMO ingredients have affected its rating negatively.

The product starts with a base of coconut water from concentrate, mixed with water and coconut water concentrate. Coconut puree is added to enhance the texture and nutritional profile. The manufacturer includes less than 1% sugar to the blend, which, while minimal, still counts as added sugar and detracts from the product’s overall healthfulness. Vitamin C, in the form of ascorbic acid, boosts the nutritional content by contributing to the daily recommended intake of this essential vitamin.

A point of contention is the inclusion of gellan gum, an additive used to stabilize and thicken the beverage. While it is generally recognized as safe by food safety authorities, its presence in the ingredients list has resulted in a significant deduction from the total score due to our strict criteria on additives.

Despite these concerns, the product manages to secure a middle-of-the-road rating. It does not contain organic ingredients, which is a priority for many health-conscious consumers. The presence of non-GMO ingredients was also a factor in the evaluation process, reflecting a preference for foods that avoid genetically modified organisms.

The Vita Co Pressed The Original positions itself as a moderately healthy option in the market. Its score reflects a balance between its natural base ingredients and the drawbacks of added sugar and additives. Consumers seeking a relatively clean option may consider this product, although it is clear that there is room for improvement in terms of organic and non-GMO commitments.