At a glance
Summary
This almond milk is ultra-processed, which limits its score despite having some beneficial ingredients like almondmilk and sea salt. The presence of additives such as gellan gum, xanthan gum, and sunflower lecithin, along with the use of 'natural flavor', contributes to its processing level. While it offers a low-calorie, dairy-free alternative with added vitamins, the processing and additives prevent it from scoring higher.
Key ingredients 12
AlmondmilkGood
Almondmilk is a plant-based milk alternative that is low in calories and naturally lactose-free. It is made from almonds and filtered water, providing a source of vitamin E and healthy fats. The processing method retains some beneficial nutrients while offering a dairy-free option.
Risks
Potential allergen for individuals with nut allergies.
Benefits
Provides vitamin E and healthy fats, making it a nutritious alternative to dairy milk.
Sea saltGood
Sea salt is a natural source of sodium and trace minerals, offering a more natural alternative to refined table salt. It is minimally processed, retaining its mineral content. The use of sea salt can enhance flavor without excessive processing.
Risks
Excessive sodium intake can lead to hypertension and cardiovascular issues.
Benefits
Contains trace minerals that can support electrolyte balance and overall health.
Vitamin B12Good
Beneficial ingredient — whole-food or functional value in this product class.
Benefits
Supports nerve health and energy production, preventing deficiencies in plant-based diets.
Gellan gumNeutral
Gellan gum is a polysaccharide used as a thickening and stabilizing agent in food products. It is produced through bacterial fermentation, making it a vegan-friendly additive. While it provides texture and stability, it does not offer significant nutritional benefits.
Risks
May cause digestive discomfort in sensitive individuals when consumed in large amounts.
Benefits
Helps maintain product consistency and texture without contributing calories.
Xanthan gumNeutral
Xanthan gum is a common food additive used to thicken and stabilize products. It is derived from the fermentation of sugars by the Xanthomonas campestris bacterium. While it is effective in improving texture, it does not provide nutritional value.
Risks
Can cause digestive issues such as bloating and gas in some individuals.
Benefits
Improves the texture and stability of food products, making them more palatable.
Calcium carbonateNeutral
Calcium carbonate is a common dietary supplement used to fortify foods with calcium. It is a mineral compound that helps support bone health. While beneficial for calcium intake, it is not absorbed as efficiently as other forms of calcium.
Risks
Excessive intake can lead to kidney stones or interfere with the absorption of other minerals.
Benefits
Provides a source of calcium, supporting bone health and preventing deficiencies.
Vitamin E acetateNeutral
Vitamin E acetate is a synthetic form of vitamin E used to fortify foods and provide antioxidant benefits. It helps protect cells from oxidative damage. While beneficial, synthetic forms may not be as bioavailable as natural sources.
Risks
High doses of synthetic vitamin E can interfere with blood clotting and increase bleeding risk.
Benefits
Acts as an antioxidant, supporting immune function and skin health.
Zinc gluconateNeutral
Zinc gluconate is a zinc supplement used to fortify foods, supporting immune function and enzyme activity. It is a bioavailable form of zinc, though not as effective as zinc picolinate. Provides essential mineral support but should be balanced with other nutrients.
Risks
Excessive zinc intake can lead to nausea and interfere with copper absorption.
Benefits
Supports immune health and enzymatic functions, contributing to overall well-being.
Vitamin A palmitateNeutral
Vitamin A palmitate is a synthetic form of vitamin A used to fortify foods, supporting vision and immune health. It is stable and effective in fortification but may not be as bioavailable as natural sources. Provides essential vitamin A but should be consumed in moderation.
Risks
Excessive intake can lead to toxicity, causing liver damage and other health issues.
Benefits
Supports vision and immune function, contributing to overall health.
Vitamin D2Neutral
Vitamin D2 is a plant-derived form of vitamin D used to fortify foods, supporting bone health and calcium absorption. It is less effective than vitamin D3 in raising blood levels of vitamin D. Provides essential vitamin D but may require higher doses for effectiveness.
Risks
Excessive intake can lead to hypercalcemia, causing nausea and kidney issues.
Benefits
Supports bone health and immune function, contributing to overall well-being.
Sunflower lecithinBad
Sunflower lecithin is an emulsifier derived from sunflower seeds, used to blend ingredients that typically do not mix well. It is a processed ingredient, though less concerning than seed oils. While it aids in texture, it does not offer significant health benefits.
Risks
May contain traces of solvents used in extraction, though generally considered safe in small amounts.
Benefits
Acts as an emulsifier, helping to maintain product consistency.
Natural flavorBad
Natural flavor is a broad term that can include a variety of chemical compounds derived from natural sources. It is often used to enhance taste but lacks transparency about its specific components. The lack of disclosure can be concerning for those with allergies or sensitivities.
Risks
Potential allergen risk due to undisclosed components; may contain additives not listed individually.
Benefits
Enhances flavor without adding calories, though benefits are limited by lack of transparency.
Processing
Ultra-Processed Foods
Get the full breakdown in the Scout appTake Scout shopping
Scan any product to see lab results, healthy alternatives, and your personalized analysis.
Download on theApp Store GET IT ONGoogle Play