Werther’s Original

Rated at 1/5 green leaves, the Werther’s Original Vanilla Crème Soft Caramels receive our lowest endorsement for cleaner food options. This rating reflects the product’s extensive use of non-organic ingredients and inclusion of GMOs, which fail to meet the criteria for a health-conscious consumer.

The caramels are made with glucose syrup derived from wheat or corn, sugar, and vegetable oils from palm and shea, none of which are organic. Additionally, the presence of condensed skim milk, sorbitol, dry whole milk, lactose, cream, whey, butter, reduced minerals whey, and soy lecithin emulsifier, salt, sugar cane syrup, along with natural and artificial flavors, contribute to the product’s low score.

The product loses significant credibility due to its added sugars. Sugar, glucose syrup, and cane syrup are ingredients known for their negative impact on health, particularly when consumed in excess. Sorbitol, while used as a sugar alternative, is also flagged for its potential health implications.

Further detracting from its rating are the potentially harmful additives. The use of both natural and artificial flavors raises concerns, with artificial flavors being particularly problematic due to their synthetic origin and the health risks they may pose. The inclusion of soy lecithin, a common emulsifier, is also noted, although it is not as heavily penalized as artificial flavors.

The use of vegetable oils, specifically palm oil, is another area of concern. Palm oil production has been linked to environmental issues, such as deforestation and habitat destruction, which conflict with the values of sustainability and environmental responsibility.

Lastly, the product’s use of artificial flavors is the most severe infraction. These ingredients are associated with a host of potential health risks and contradict the pursuit of a clean and natural diet.

Based on the ingredients and manufacturing choices, Werther’s Original Vanilla Crème Soft Caramels are not aligned with the mission of providing cleaner, healthier food options. Consumers seeking alternatives that prioritize organic ingredients, avoid GMOs, and exclude harmful additives and sugars would be advised to consider other products.