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Is Simple Mills Actually Good for You? An Unbiased Nutritional Deep Dive

3 min read

While Simple Mills products are widely praised for their clean, simple ingredients, some products contain higher levels of fat and calories per serving. We explore whether Simple Mills is actually good for you, breaking down the nutritional value behind the marketing claims.

Quick Summary

An honest analysis of Simple Mills products, exploring ingredient quality, nutritional content, and potential benefits versus drawbacks. Evaluate if Simple Mills fits your dietary needs and wellness goals.

Key Points

  • Cleaner Ingredients: Simple Mills uses simple, recognizable, whole-food ingredients without artificial additives, which is a major health benefit.

  • Higher Calorie & Fat Content: Due to the use of nutrient-dense flours like almond, many products are higher in calories and fat, requiring portion control.

  • Gluten-Free and Grain-Free: The products are a great alternative for individuals with celiac disease, gluten intolerance, or those following a paleo diet.

  • Enhanced Nutrient Profile: Almond flour provides higher levels of protein, fiber, healthy fats, Vitamin E, and magnesium compared to refined flours.

  • Cost Considerations: The premium price point for Simple Mills products can be a barrier for some consumers.

  • Natural Sweeteners: While using unrefined sweeteners like coconut sugar, the total sugar content in some baked goods means moderation is still necessary.

  • Moderately Processed: Some products are classified as moderately processed by watchdog groups, though still less so than typical convenience foods.

In This Article

The Simple Mills Philosophy: Simple Ingredients for Health

Founded on the principle that 'if you don't recognize an ingredient, your body won't either,' Simple Mills built its brand around using simple, purposeful, whole-food ingredients. The company’s mission is to offer delicious, real foods that nourish the body for the long term, avoiding artificial additives, refined sugars, and fillers found in many traditional packaged snacks. Many of their products are gluten-free, grain-free, and paleo-friendly, catering to a wide range of dietary preferences. Their use of alternative flours like almond and coconut is a key differentiator from conventional baking mixes and snacks. However, the health value of these products depends on a closer look at the ingredients and nutritional content.

A Closer Look at Simple Mills' Core Ingredients

Simple Mills relies heavily on alternative flours and natural sweeteners. A closer inspection reveals both benefits and potential drawbacks.

Almond Flour

This is a primary ingredient in many Simple Mills products, such as their popular crackers and baking mixes. Compared to traditional wheat flour, almond flour offers several nutritional advantages:

  • Higher in Nutrients: Almonds are packed with nutrients like Vitamin E, magnesium, and manganese.
  • Healthy Fats: Rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
  • Lower Glycemic Index: It has a lower impact on blood sugar levels, making it suitable for those managing diabetes or on low-carb diets.

Natural Sweeteners

Instead of refined white sugar, Simple Mills uses alternatives like coconut sugar and honey. While these are less processed, they are still a form of sugar and should be consumed in moderation, especially in products like their cookies and sweet thins.

Other Ingredients

Many products feature nut and seed blends (sunflower, flax seeds) to boost fiber and protein. Some products also contain organic sunflower oil and rosemary extract. While EWG has flagged rosemary extract as an ingredient of lower concern, it is not a major issue. The sourcing of ingredients is important, and Simple Mills' commitment to clean labels is a significant plus for many consumers.

The Pros and Cons: A Balanced Perspective

The Pros: What Simple Mills Gets Right

  • Cleaner Ingredient Deck: Simple, recognizable ingredients without artificial additives, preservatives, or GMOs.
  • Dietary Friendly: Offers a wide range of gluten-free, grain-free, and paleo-friendly options.
  • Nutrient-Dense Alternatives: The use of almond and seed flours provides more protein, fiber, and healthy fats compared to white flour alternatives.
  • Great Taste: Many consumers praise the flavor and texture of Simple Mills products, which can be a challenge for healthier alternatives.

The Cons: Where to Be Mindful

  • Calorie and Fat Density: Due to the almond and seed bases, many Simple Mills products are higher in calories and fat compared to traditional snacks, meaning portion control is crucial.
  • Price Point: As a healthier, specialty alternative, the cost of Simple Mills products is higher than conventional options.
  • Taste and Texture Differences: Some reviews note that certain mixes can be denser or drier than traditional baked goods.
  • Processing Concerns: While less processed than many snacks, some Simple Mills products are still considered moderately processed by organizations like the EWG.

Comparison: Simple Mills vs. Traditional Counterparts

Feature Simple Mills Almond Flour Crackers Standard Wheat Crackers (e.g., Saltines)
Primary Flour Almond Flour, Sunflower Seed Flour, Flax Seed Flour Enriched Wheat Flour
Gluten-Free Yes No
Fiber (per serving) 2g Less than 1g (varies)
Fat (per serving) 8g (predominantly monounsaturated) ~1g (varies)
Added Sugar Often none (crackers) Can contain corn syrup or added sugars
Nutrient Density Higher (Vitamin E, Magnesium) Lower (enriched with synthetic vitamins)

The Verdict: So, is Simple Mills actually good for you?

Ultimately, whether Simple Mills products are 'good for you' is relative. For those following a gluten-free, grain-free, or paleo diet, or simply seeking snacks with cleaner, more recognizable ingredients, Simple Mills is an excellent, nutrient-dense choice. The fiber, protein, and healthy fats from ingredients like almond flour offer a significant nutritional upgrade over traditional refined-flour snacks. However, it is essential to be mindful of the calorie and fat content, as some products are energy-dense. Portion control is key to enjoying these snacks as part of a balanced diet. Simple Mills delivers a healthier, mindful indulgence, but they are not a calorie-free pass to overeat. The best approach is to read the nutrition label for your specific product of interest, understand your individual dietary goals, and enjoy these snacks in moderation.

To learn more about their ingredient sourcing, you can visit the official Simple Mills website at simplemills.com.

Frequently Asked Questions

Almond flour is a ground, blanched nut flour that is higher in protein, fiber, and healthy fats than standard wheat flour. It is also lower in carbohydrates and has a lower glycemic index, making it a more nutrient-dense alternative for many.

Yes, Simple Mills states that all of its products are certified gluten-free, making them safe for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities.

The higher fat content comes primarily from the nut and seed bases, such as almond flour and sunflower seeds. This includes healthy monounsaturated fats, but it does contribute to a higher calorie count.

No, Simple Mills avoids refined sugar and uses natural sweeteners like organic coconut sugar, coconut nectar, and honey instead. However, these are still forms of sugar and should be consumed in moderation.

Simple Mills crackers typically contain more fiber, protein, and healthy fats, and fewer carbohydrates than traditional crackers made with enriched white flour. They are also grain-free.

Many Simple Mills products are paleo-friendly, as they are grain-free and use natural sweeteners. However, always check the specific product's ingredients list to ensure it aligns with your dietary restrictions.

While using cleaner ingredients, some products are still classified as moderately processed. However, this is significantly less processed than the average packaged snack, and they contain no artificial or industrial ingredients.

Yes, a common weakness noted by consumers is the higher price point compared to less expensive, traditional snack brands.

References

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Medical Disclaimer

This content is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice.