What Does "Clean Eating" Really Mean?
Before diving into McCormick's products, it's crucial to define what "clean eating" entails, as the term can be subjective. Generally, clean eating emphasizes consuming whole, unprocessed, or minimally processed foods. For many, this means avoiding artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives. High sodium, added sugars, and fillers like starches and maltodextrin are also typically avoided. The level of strictness varies, but the core principle is a focus on natural, recognizable ingredients.
McCormick Taco Seasoning: A Look at Different Varieties
McCormick offers several varieties of taco seasoning, and their ingredients can differ significantly. Let's break down some of the most common ones.
Original Taco Seasoning Mix
The most widely available version, the ingredient list is relatively straightforward compared to some competitors. A typical ingredient list includes:
- Spices (including Chili Pepper, Paprika, Oregano)
- Corn Starch
- Salt
- Onion
- Garlic
McCormick explicitly states that this version contains no artificial flavors and no added MSG. However, the inclusion of corn starch as a filler is a point of contention for some who adhere to a strict clean eating diet. High sodium content is also a consistent concern across many prepackaged seasonings.
Premium Taco Seasoning Mix
Often sold in larger containers, this blend has a different ingredient profile, notably including yellow corn meal and cocoa powder.
- Yellow Corn Meal
- Spices (Including Chili Pepper, Cumin, Oregano)
- Sea Salt
- Onion
- Garlic
- Smoked Paprika
- Red and Green Bell Peppers
- Cocoa Powder Processed with Alkali
- Salt
- Jalapeño Pepper
This version also claims no artificial flavors or MSG. The addition of corn meal and cocoa powder provides a richer flavor but might not align with every clean eating philosophy.
Organic Taco Seasoning Mix
For those seeking a certified option, McCormick's Organic line is the cleanest they offer. This mix is USDA-certified organic, non-GMO, and explicitly labeled gluten-free. This addresses several of the concerns associated with fillers and potential cross-contamination.
Culinary Taco Seasoning Mix
Sold in bulk, this version's ingredient list differs again. The mild version, for example, lists whey (milk) and potato starch, making it unsuitable for dairy-free diets.
Potential "Unclean" Ingredients to Watch For
Even in versions marketed as "simple and clean," there are ingredients that might not meet everyone's standards. When evaluating any packaged seasoning, consider these factors:
- Sodium: Prepackaged mixes are notoriously high in sodium to boost flavor. For example, a single serving can contribute a significant percentage of the daily recommended intake. Homemade versions allow for complete sodium control.
- Fillers: Thickeners and anti-caking agents like corn starch, yellow corn meal, and potato starch are common. While generally harmless, they are not a whole food ingredient and add unnecessary bulk.
- Added Sugars: Some varieties include small amounts of sugar or corn maltodextrin to balance the flavor. A strict clean eating diet typically avoids all added sugars.
- Natural Flavors: While McCormick lists "no artificial flavors," the term "natural flavors" is less transparent and could come from various sources. While not inherently harmful, it's a gray area for those who want to know every single ingredient.
The Ultimate Clean Alternative: Homemade Taco Seasoning
For ultimate control and truly clean ingredients, making your own taco seasoning is the best route. It's simple, inexpensive, and gives you complete command over flavor and sodium levels. A basic recipe includes common pantry spices.
Ingredients for a basic homemade mix:
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 ½ tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt to taste
Simply mix these spices together and use 2-3 tablespoons per pound of ground meat or other protein. This mix contains only spices you can identify and control. You can find more detailed recipes online, including options for smoked paprika or other flavor twists. For a comprehensive recipe from a trusted source, you can check out this guide on homemade seasoning.
Comparison Table: McCormick vs. Clean Alternatives
| Feature | McCormick Original | McCormick Organic | Simply Organic | Homemade Blend |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | Spices, Corn Starch, Salt | Spices, Rice Concentrate | Spices, Rice Concentrate | Spices |
| Additives | Corn Starch, Citric Acid (in some) | None (rice concentrate is a binder) | Rice Concentrate | None |
| Sodium | High (around 380-420mg) | Moderate | Moderate/High | Fully Customizable |
| MSG | No added MSG | No added MSG | No added MSG | None |
| GMO Status | Not specified on standard | Certified Non-GMO | Certified Organic/Non-GMO | Depends on sourcing |
| Gluten Status | No gluten ingredients listed, not certified | Certified Gluten-Free | Certified Gluten-Free | Depends on sourcing |
| 'Clean' Rating | Moderate, relies on simple ingredients but includes fillers and high sodium. | High, certified organic and non-GMO with minimal processing. | High, certified organic with transparent ingredients. | Highest, complete control over every ingredient. |
Conclusion: Is McCormick Taco Seasoning Clean?
The answer to "is McCormick taco seasoning clean?" is nuanced and depends on your definition of the term. For many, McCormick's Original and Organic options are a good choice. The Original mix is a solid, widely available option that omits added MSG and artificial flavors. The Organic version is an even better choice, meeting higher standards with its organic, non-GMO, and certified gluten-free status. However, those who adhere to the strictest clean eating principles might object to the presence of high sodium, starches, or small amounts of sugar in some varieties. For the ultimate control over ingredients, a simple homemade blend is the cleanest option of all, allowing you to fine-tune flavors and sodium to your exact preference.
