Pastel Buttermints

Why Does This Score Ultra-Processed?

In our analysis, Pastel Buttermints scores Ultra-Processed. That classification is shaped by ingredients commonly associated with ultra-processed foods:

• Corn-Based Sweeteners (Corn Syrup Contains Less Than 2% Of Each Of The Following: Sugar): HFCS is a hallmark of ultra-processed foods.
• Artificial Colors (Yellow 5, Blue 1 Lake, Red 3, +1 more): Synthetic colors are definitive UPF markers.
• Chemical Preservatives (Tbhq Preservative, Sodium Benzoate Preservative): Synthetic preservatives are UPF indicators.
• Sugar Alcohols (Sorbitol): Modified sweeteners common in diet UPF products.
• Emulsifiers (Soy Lecithin*, Glycerin): Industrial emulsifiers indicate UPF.

Within Gum & Mints, this product is more processed than about 23% of the 1,470 products we've analyzed.

Processing classification reflects ingredient and additive analysis, not a judgment of any product's safety, quality, or healthfulness.

What These Ingredients Tell Us

We group Pastel Buttermints' ingredients into ingredient categories and note how each relates to food processing. The notes below describe the category, not this specific product's formulation.

Sugars & Natural SweetenersProcessing indicator

In this product: Liquid Sugar (Sugar, Water), Invert Sugar.

Natural sugars acceptable in moderation, excessive amounts indicate UPF.

Vegetable OilsProcessing indicator

In this product: Palm Oil*, Peppermint Oil.

Natural oils are minimally processed, hydrogenated oils indicate UPF.

Salt & SodiumProcessing indicator

In this product: Salt.

Basic preservative, but high amounts indicate processing.

Food AcidsProcessing indicator

In this product: Citric Acid.

Common in both traditional and industrial foods.