UNSWEETENED ORIGINAL COCONUT MILK
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
Key ingredients 10
Coconut milkGood
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 gumNeutral
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.
CarrageenanBad
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.
Guar gumNeutral
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.
Calcium carbonateNeutral
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.
Natural flavorsBad
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.
Gellan gumNeutral
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.
See more about Gellan gum →Vitamin A palmitateNeutral
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.
Vitamin D2Neutral
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.
Vitamin B12Neutral
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.
Processing
Ultra-Processed Foods
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