Sweetgreen's Shift to Seed Oil-Free Cooking
Sweetgreen's public pivot away from seed oils for their cooked ingredients marked a significant change in their menu. Following criticism and consumer demand, the company switched to extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) and avocado oil for cooking proteins, grains, and roasted vegetables in late 2023. This change provided a foundation for offering more seed oil-free menu items, though it's important to remember that some dressings are formulated differently.
Seed Oil-Free Dressings at Sweetgreen
While ingredient sourcing can evolve, here are the dressings that are confirmed or reported to be seed oil-free in 2025 based on ingredient releases and customer-reported changes:
- Green Goddess Ranch: Following a reformulation, this popular dressing is now made without seed oils. Reddit users have confirmed its ingredients, which include mayonnaise (often with avocado oil) and Greek yogurt, along with a blend of herbs.
- Balsamic Vinaigrette: The current formulation of the classic balsamic vinaigrette uses olive oil as its base, ensuring it is a seed oil-free choice.
- Pesto Vinaigrette: This option is also made with a base of olive oil, providing another seed oil-free dressing to add to salads and warm bowls.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil + Balsamic Vinegar: For the purest, most controlled option, customers can always choose to use these as separate, simple ingredients. This bypasses any potential oil concerns in pre-made dressings.
- Lemon Squeeze: A simple squeeze of fresh lemon adds flavor without any added oil at all.
Dressings That May Contain Seed Oils
It is important to be aware of dressings that may still contain seed oils or have an ingredient blend that uses them. While Sweetgreen's cooking oil changed, not all dressings were immediately affected. As of early 2025, the Lime Cilantro Jalapeño Vinaigrette and Spicy Cashew Dressing have been noted to potentially contain seed oils in some formulations. The Spicy Cashew, for example, often uses sesame oil, and the Lime Cilantro Jalapeño has been reported to contain grapeseed or sunflower oil in some versions. Always confirm with staff for the most current ingredients.
Comparison of Dressings with and without Seed Oils
| Dressing Name | Seed Oil-Free Status | Primary Oil Source | Key Flavor Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Green Goddess Ranch | Yes | Avocado Oil (in mayonnaise) & Greek Yogurt | Creamy, herby, tangy |
| Balsamic Vinaigrette | Yes | Olive Oil | Sweet, acidic, earthy |
| Pesto Vinaigrette | Yes | Olive Oil | Fresh, herby, garlic |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | Yes | Extra Virgin Olive Oil | Rich, fruity, peppery |
| Lime Cilantro Jalapeño Vinaigrette | Potentially No | Grapeseed or Sunflower Oil (historically) | Spicy, tangy, herbaceous |
| Spicy Cashew Dressing | Potentially No | Sesame Oil | Creamy, spicy, nutty |
| Caesar Dressing | Yes (Reformulated) | Yogurt-based, with Olive Oil added | Tangy, savory, cheesy |
How to Verify Dressing Ingredients In-Store
Sweetgreen is known for its transparency and commitment to high-quality ingredients. For the most accurate information on current dressing ingredients, follow these steps:
- Check the Digital Menu: Sweetgreen’s website and app often list ingredients and allergens for each item, including dressings.
- Ask an Employee: Staff can provide the most current information on ingredients, especially since reformulations happen periodically.
- Review In-Store Materials: Many locations have ingredient information available in-store, sometimes on chalkboards or laminated sheets.
Conclusion: Choosing Seed Oil-Free Dressings at Sweetgreen
For those looking to avoid seed oils, Sweetgreen offers several reliable options. The Green Goddess Ranch, Balsamic Vinaigrette, and Pesto Vinaigrette are currently formulated without seed oils, using high-quality olive and avocado oils instead. The simplest choice remains a pure blend of extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar, or a simple lime or lemon squeeze. While many ingredients are now cooked in seed oil-free options, it's always wise to be vigilant and confirm the latest ingredient list for any item, especially for older or non-standardized dressing choices. This attention to detail ensures your meal aligns with your health goals and preferences, leveraging Sweetgreen's evolving menu and commitments. For detailed information on ingredients, checking the official Sweetgreen menu is recommended.
