EWG's Food Scores just took the work out of grocery shopping for me! (2024)

Products bearing the USDA certified organic seal must contain at least 95 percent organic ingredient, and must be produced without the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers and free of genetically engineered ingredients.

BPA, an endocrine disrupting chemical, is used to line the inside of nearly every canned food sold in the United States. Research shows that BPA readily leaches from the cans into the food. For more information visit: https://www.ewg.org/key-issues/toxics/bpa

Many animals are fed low doses of antibiotics throughout their lifespan to speed growth and prevent diseases. These non-essential uses promote antibiotic resistance, posing a serious risk to human health.

Hormone implants and artificial growth promoters are commonly used to speed the growth of meat animals. These practices are not allowed in Europe due to health concerns.

Added "flavors" are secret and often complex mixtures of chemicals that modify and manipulate the taste and smell of food. The lack of disclosure is a public right to know issue and especially concerning to people with unusual food allergies or on restricted diets.

This product contains a high percentage of the Institute of Medicine's recommended adequate intake for sodium of 1500 mg a day (IOM 2005). This value is much lower than what the FDA requires be listed on food labels -- 2400 mg.Americans average 3,400 mg of sodium a day. Most of this sodium comes from processed foods where sodium is added to mask the lack of freshness by enhancing the flavor, texture or palatability and extending shelf-life (IOM 2010). Many of these uses are for the manufacturers benefit and not the consumer's health as excess sodium intake is linked to high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke and kidney disease (IOM 2010).

Protein is a source of amino acids that are required for the proper growth, maintenance and repair of tissues. It also provides the building blocks for important enzymes and hormones. Protein provides calories and if eaten in excess will be stored as fat. Protein is found in high amounts in beans, nuts, eggs, seafood and meat. Protein is essential to health, but eating too much also carries an environmental and health cost. Learn more: http://www.ewg.org/meateatersguide/

Eating too much of any type of sugar can lead to tooth decay. Added sugars like high fructose corn syrup, honey, sugar and dextrose are more concerning than natural sugars like raisins because they can lead to obesity by adding calories without being accompanied by important nutrients like potassium, vitamin C or fiber. Americans average 22 teaspoons of added sugar a day (NCI 2010; USDA and DHHS 2010). The World Health Organization recommends no more than 6 to 12 teaspoons of added sugar a day for adults, children should eat even less (WHO 2002; WHO 2014).