Key findings
- 1Triscuit (3 ingredients) and simple seed crackers are far less processed than most crackers
- 2In our analysis, crackers as a category average a Processing Score of 6.7, which is Level 3
- 3Goldfish, Cheez-Its, and Ritz each carry long ingredient lists
- 4Graham crackers, despite seeming simple, typically contain multiple sweeteners and preservatives
Why is Crackers Level 3 on average?
Mass-market crackers use chemical leavening, refined bleached flour, and multiple processing aids. Hydrogenated or interesterified oils provide shelf stability and texture. TBHQ (tertiary butylhydroquinone) is a common preservative. Flavor-enhanced crackers like Cheez-Its add cheese powder manufactured through an industrial spray-drying process, along with artificial colors.
How 4,523 crackers products break down
Share of products at each processing level, in our analysis.
Crackers brand comparison
From least to most processed in our database.
How to read a crackers label
- 1
Triscuits list just 3 ingredients (wheat, oil, salt), a rare simple cracker
- 2
Watch for crackers listing "partially hydrogenated" oils (trans fats)
- 3
TBHQ is a synthetic antioxidant preservative and a sign of ultra-processing
- 4
Cheese-flavored crackers use spray-dried cheese powder, not real cheese
Which ingredients should you watch for?
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Frequently asked questions
Are Goldfish crackers ultra-processed?
Goldfish carry a long ingredient list including autolyzed yeast extract, modified starches, and multiple oils, despite their simple appearance. Search Goldfish crackers to see their own average.
What is the least processed cracker?
Triscuits (wheat, oil, salt), Mary's Gone Crackers (seeds, brown rice, herbs), and Scandinavian-style crispbreads with just rye and salt are among the least processed options.
Guide · Snacks
The Complete Snacks Guide
Processing analysis, least-processed picks, and what to watch for.
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