UNSWEETENED ORIGINAL COCONUT MILK

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Summary

This coconut milk is ultra-processed, containing multiple additives such as carrageenan, xanthan gum, and guar gum, which are used as stabilizers and thickeners. While it includes beneficial coconut milk, the presence of natural flavors and the level of processing detract from its overall healthiness. The product's clean label is compromised by these additives, limiting its score despite the low sugar and fat content.

At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 1
Harmful ingredients 2
Owned by Topco Associates, Inc.
Category Milk

Key ingredients 10

Coconut milk
Good

Coconut milk is a plant-based milk alternative rich in medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) which may support metabolism. It is derived from the flesh of coconuts and is a source of healthy fats. The quality of coconut milk can vary based on the processing methods and the proportion of coconut cream used.

Risks

Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to coconut products.

Benefits

Provides healthy fats and may support heart health and weight management due to its MCT content.

Xanthan gum
Neutral

Xanthan gum is a common food additive used as a thickening agent and stabilizer. It is produced through the fermentation of sugars by the Xanthomonas campestris bacterium. While it is generally considered safe, it is a highly processed ingredient.

Risks

Excessive consumption may lead to digestive issues such as bloating or gas.

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Carrageenan
Bad

Carrageenan is a thickening agent derived from red seaweed, often used in dairy and plant-based milk products. It has been linked to digestive issues and inflammation in some studies. The processing of carrageenan can affect its impact on health, with degraded forms being more concerning.

Risks

May cause digestive discomfort and has been associated with inflammation in some studies.

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Guar gum
Neutral

Guar gum is a natural thickening agent derived from guar beans, used to improve texture and consistency in food products. It is generally considered safe but is a processed ingredient. Its effectiveness as a thickener makes it a common choice in food manufacturing.

Risks

High consumption may lead to digestive issues such as gas or bloating.

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Calcium carbonate
Neutral

Calcium carbonate is a mineral supplement used to fortify foods with calcium, supporting bone health. It is a common additive in non-dairy milk alternatives to enhance nutritional value. The bioavailability of calcium from supplements can vary compared to natural sources.

Risks

Excessive intake may lead to kidney stones or interfere with the absorption of other minerals.

Benefits

Provides a source of calcium, which is essential for bone health.

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Natural flavors
Bad

Natural flavors are additives used to enhance the taste of food products, but their exact composition is often undisclosed. They can contain a variety of compounds, some of which may be highly processed. The lack of transparency in their composition raises concerns about potential allergens or sensitivities.

Risks

May contain undisclosed allergens or highly processed compounds.

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Gellan gum
Neutral

Gellan gum is a gelling agent used to stabilize and thicken food products, derived from bacterial fermentation. It is considered safe for consumption but is a processed ingredient. Its ability to form gels makes it useful in a variety of food applications.

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Vitamin A palmitate
Neutral

Vitamin A palmitate is a synthetic form of vitamin A used to fortify foods, supporting vision and immune function. It is often added to non-dairy milk alternatives to enhance their nutritional profile. The synthetic nature of this vitamin may affect its absorption compared to natural sources.

Risks

Excessive intake can lead to hypervitaminosis A, causing toxicity.

Benefits

Supports vision and immune function as a source of vitamin A.

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Vitamin D2
Neutral

Vitamin D2 is a plant-derived form of vitamin D used to fortify foods, aiding in calcium absorption and bone health. It is less effective than vitamin D3 in raising blood levels of vitamin D. Fortification helps address deficiencies in populations with limited sun exposure.

Risks

Excessive intake can lead to hypercalcemia, causing health issues.

Benefits

Supports bone health by aiding in calcium absorption.

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Vitamin B12
Neutral

Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient added to fortified foods to support nerve function and red blood cell formation. It is particularly important for individuals following plant-based diets. The synthetic form used in fortification may differ in absorption compared to natural sources.

Benefits

Essential for nerve function and red blood cell formation.

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Processing

Group 4 · Ultra-processed

Ultra-Processed Foods

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