Think that “natural” label guarantees a healthy choice? Think again. Many grocery items aren’t as pure as they seem. Here are 21 foods that might be fooling you with their claims.
1. “Natural” Flavored Snacks
Think that bag of chips or crackers with “natural flavors” is a healthier choice? Think again. “Natural flavors” can be just as processed as artificial ones, made in labs to enhance taste without offering any real nutritional benefits.
2. Pre-Packaged Fruit Snacks
Those brightly colored fruit snacks claiming to be made with “real fruit” often contain more corn syrup and artificial ingredients than actual fruit. Check the label, and you’ll often find a long list of additives.
3. Multigrain Bread
Not all multigrain bread is created equal. Some brands add a sprinkle of whole grains to white bread and call it “multigrain.” Always check for “whole grain” as the first ingredient to ensure you’re getting the real deal.
4. Greek Yogurt
Greek yogurt has become a health staple, but not all brands are as pure as they claim. Some include added sugars, thickeners, and artificial flavors that detract from its natural benefits. Stick to plain, unsweetened versions for the best results.
5. Vegetable Chips
Sure, they sound healthier than regular chips, but many vegetable chips are just regular potato chips with a bit of vegetable powder thrown in. They’re often fried and full of the same unhealthy fats and sodium.
6. Granola Bars
Granola bars might seem like a healthy snack, but many are loaded with sugars, syrups, and preservatives. They often contain more sugar than a candy bar, making them less natural than you might think.
7. Honey
That golden honey in your pantry might not be as pure as it looks. Some honey brands have been found to contain added sugars or corn syrup, diluting the natural product. Look for raw, unfiltered honey to ensure you’re getting the real thing.
8. Fruit Juices
That “all-natural” fruit juice might not be just juice. Many brands add sugars, flavors, and preservatives, reducing their nutritional value. Always choose 100% juice with no added ingredients.
9. Maple Syrup
Real maple syrup is just sap from the maple tree, but many brands on the shelf are actually flavored corn syrup with a hint of real maple. Always check the label for 100% pure maple syrup to avoid the imposters.
10. Frozen Yogurt
Frozen yogurt is often marketed as a healthy treat, but many brands are packed with sugars, artificial flavors, and stabilizers that make them less natural than they appear.
11. Cereal
Cereals with labels like “whole grain” or “natural” can be deceptive. Many still contain high amounts of sugar, artificial colors, and flavors. It’s best to check the ingredient list carefully.
12. Canned Soups
Even soups labeled as “natural” or “homemade” often contain preservatives, artificial flavors, and sodium levels through the roof. Homemade is always a better option.
13. Peanut Butter
Some peanut butter marketed as “natural” include added oils, sugars, and preservatives. Look for brands that list just peanuts and maybe a little salt as the only ingredients.
14. Packaged Oatmeal
Instant oatmeal packets often contain added sugars, artificial flavors, and other additives that make them far from a natural, healthy breakfast choice. Opt for plain oats and add your own toppings.
15. Bottled Tea
Bottled teas often come with “natural” labels, but they’re frequently loaded with added sugars and artificial flavors. Brew your own at home for a genuinely natural drink.
16. Energy Bars
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Energy bars can be a quick snack, but many are filled with artificial ingredients, sweeteners, and preservatives, despite being labeled as “natural.”
17. Ice Cream
Ice cream brands might market their product as “natural” or “made with real ingredients,” but a look at the label often reveals artificial flavors, stabilizers, and a lot of sugar.
18. Salsa
That jar of salsa might not be as natural as you think. Many salsas contain preservatives, added sugars, and artificial flavors. Fresh, homemade salsa is your best bet.
19. Veggie Burgers
Veggie burgers can be a great alternative to meat, but some brands are highly processed, containing fillers, artificial flavors, and preservatives. Look for options with simple, whole food ingredients.
20. Trail Mix
Pre-packaged trail mixes often contain added sugars, artificial flavors, and preservatives, especially in the dried fruit or coated nuts. Making your own at home allows you to control what goes into it.
21. Flavored Water
Flavored waters are often marketed as a healthy alternative to soda, but many contain artificial sweeteners and flavors. Plain water with a squeeze of real fruit is a much better choice.
The Takeaway
Next time you’re grocery shopping, don’t be fooled by the labels. Many products that claim to be “natural” are anything but. Reading ingredient lists and opting for minimally processed foods can help ensure that what you’re eating is truly natural and good for your health. Remember, the best way to know what’s in your food is to make it yourself!
Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Gorodenkoff.
For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.
