Tag: Ingredient transparency

Since January 1, 2022, food manufacturers have been required by a USDA standard to disclose bioengineered ingredients. For Hellmann's mayonnaise, this label means that some ingredients, such as soybean oil or sugar, come from genetically modified crops. The new label standard aims to increase transparency for consumers.

A look at official ingredient lists confirms that Checkers, like many other fast-food chains, does use monosodium glutamate (MSG) in their food. This flavor enhancer is present in some of their most popular menu items, most notably the Famous Seasoned Fries.

Historically, grapefruit seed extract (GSE) has been promoted as a potent natural antimicrobial, but some independent studies reveal a significant portion of commercial products are adulterated with synthetic disinfectants. But is citrus seed extract the same as grapefruit seed extract? The answer reveals a critical distinction for consumers who value ingredient transparency.

Over the last decade, the sparkling water market has exploded, with many seeking healthier alternatives to sugary sodas. While both Spindrift and LaCroix offer zero-calorie, carbonated options, a key difference in their flavoring methods is often cited as the primary reason why Spindrift is better than LaCroix. Spindrift uses real squeezed fruit, giving it a more robust and authentic taste that many prefer over the subtle, often mysterious, 'natural flavors' of LaCroix.

According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), a natural flavor is a chemical extracted from a natural source like a plant or animal. This broad definition, however, doesn't tell the whole story about their healthfulness, as the final product is often far from its original source.

According to research published in *The Journal of Nutrition*, over 20% of dietary supplement labels in the Dietary Supplement Label Database contain proprietary blends. Understanding what is a proprietary blend of herbs is crucial for consumers who want to make informed decisions about their supplements, as this term often hides the exact dosage of each ingredient.

While many children's vitamins are packed with artificial colors and sugar, a growing number of parents are asking: does Hiya have artificial dyes? According to Hiya Health and independent reviews, their products are free of artificial dyes, using natural sources instead.

While Oatly's standard liquid oat milks are formulated without gums, some of their other products, like yogurt and certain ice creams, do contain guar gum. Understanding the specific ingredient list for each Oatly item is crucial for consumers seeking to manage or avoid certain additives in their diet.

In 2017, a study by the Organic Consumers Association (OCA) revealed trace amounts of the herbicide glyphosate in several Ben & Jerry's ice cream flavors, igniting a conversation about food safety and the brand's 'all-natural' reputation. While the detected levels were significantly below regulatory limits, the finding raised consumer awareness about unexpected chemical residues in food products.

According to Dietz and Watson's own website, their "Right Way" philosophy emphasizes transparency, quality ingredients, and a simple process. However, answering the question 'Is Dietz and Watson clean?' requires a closer look at the specific product line, as ingredients vary significantly across their offerings.