Ice cream is a beloved treat enjoyed by many, but not all ice creams are created equal.
Recently, Blue Bell, a popular ice cream brand, has come under scrutiny for its use of high fructose corn syrup and other low-quality ingredients. However, not all of their flavors contain these controversial ingredients.
In this article, we will explore which flavors of Blue Bell do not contain high fructose corn syrup and what other ingredients to look out for in your favorite ice cream brands.
So grab a spoon and let’s dive in!
Which Flavors Of Bluebell Has No High Fructose Corn Syrup?
If you’re a fan of Blue Bell ice cream but want to avoid high fructose corn syrup, there is one flavor that stands out: Natural Vanilla Bean. This flavor does not contain high fructose corn syrup, making it a great option for those looking for a healthier alternative.
However, it’s important to note that many of Blue Bell’s other flavors do contain high fructose corn syrup, as well as other questionable ingredients like cellulose gum and vegetable gums. These ingredients can cause digestive issues and other health concerns.
If you’re looking for other ice cream brands that don’t use high fructose corn syrup, there are plenty of options available. Brands like Ben & Jerry’s and Haagen-Dazs use natural ingredients and avoid artificial sweeteners like high fructose corn syrup.
The Controversy Surrounding High Fructose Corn Syrup In Ice Cream
The use of high fructose corn syrup in ice cream has been a controversial topic in recent years. Many consumers are concerned about the potential health risks associated with this sweetener, including the risk of developing diabetes and obesity. While some ice cream brands have made efforts to remove high fructose corn syrup from their products, others continue to use it as a primary sweetener.
One of the concerns about high fructose corn syrup in ice cream is that it can cause digestive issues for some people. This is because the body metabolizes fructose differently than other types of sugar, which can lead to bloating, gas, and other digestive discomforts.
Another concern is that high fructose corn syrup may contribute to the development of chronic health conditions like diabetes and obesity. While there is still debate among experts about the exact role that high fructose corn syrup plays in these conditions, many consumers are choosing to avoid it altogether as a precautionary measure.
Despite these concerns, some ice cream manufacturers continue to use high fructose corn syrup in their products. This may be due to the lower cost of this sweetener compared to other options like cane sugar or honey. However, as more consumers become aware of the potential health risks associated with high fructose corn syrup, it’s possible that we may see a shift towards more natural and healthier sweeteners in ice cream and other foods.
Blue Bell’s Use Of High Fructose Corn Syrup And Other Ingredients
Blue Bell ice cream has faced criticism for its use of high fructose corn syrup and other low-quality ingredients. In fact, a recent publication called out Blue Bell for using these ingredients in their Homemade Vanilla flavor, which includes high fructose corn syrup, cellulose gum, and vegetable gums. Other flavors contain modified food starch, artificial colors, mono and diglycerides, and more.
High fructose corn syrup is a common sweetener in many food products, including sodas and fruit-flavored drinks. While it’s chemically similar to table sugar, there is currently insufficient evidence to say that high-fructose corn syrup is any less healthy than other types of sweeteners. However, some experts argue that it can lead to health issues like obesity and diabetes.
Cellulose gum is a thickening agent that comes from the cell walls of plants like wood pulp and cottonseeds. While it’s considered a safe food additive, it may cause digestive issues like loose bowel movements.
Vegetable gums are used as thickeners in food products and are obtained from certain modified food starches. While they don’t alter flavor, taste, color or texture, consuming too much of these gums can lead to abdominal bloating and gas.
Despite the criticism surrounding Blue Bell’s use of these ingredients, the company remains one of the most popular ice cream brands in the US. However, for those looking to avoid high fructose corn syrup and other questionable ingredients, it’s important to check the ingredient list before making a purchase. Natural Vanilla Bean is the only Blue Bell flavor that doesn’t contain high fructose corn syrup, but there are plenty of other ice cream brands that use natural ingredients and avoid artificial sweeteners altogether.
Which Blue Bell Flavors Do Not Contain High Fructose Corn Syrup?
As mentioned earlier, the only Blue Bell flavor that does not contain high fructose corn syrup is Natural Vanilla Bean. This flavor is made with simple ingredients like milk, cream, sugar, and natural vanilla flavor. It’s a classic flavor that’s perfect for those who want to enjoy the taste of Blue Bell without compromising their health.
Unfortunately, many of Blue Bell’s other flavors do contain high fructose corn syrup and other questionable ingredients like cellulose gum and vegetable gums. These ingredients are often used as thickeners and stabilizers, but they can cause digestive issues and other health concerns.
If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to Blue Bell ice cream, it’s best to choose a brand that uses natural ingredients and avoids artificial sweeteners like high fructose corn syrup. While Blue Bell is a beloved Texas staple, it’s important to prioritize your health and choose ice cream brands that use high-quality ingredients.
Other Ingredients To Look Out For In Ice Cream Brands
Aside from high fructose corn syrup, there are other ingredients commonly found in ice cream brands that may not be the healthiest options. Cellulose gum, for example, is a thickening agent derived from plant cell walls. While it’s generally considered safe, it can cause digestive issues like loose bowel movements if consumed in large quantities.
Another ingredient to watch out for is vegetable gum, which is often used as a thickener in food products. While it doesn’t alter the taste or texture of the ice cream, consuming too much of it can cause abdominal bloating and gas.
Additionally, some ice cream brands may use artificial colors and flavors, as well as preservatives like mono and diglycerides. These ingredients can have negative effects on health and should be avoided when possible.
When choosing an ice cream brand, it’s important to read the ingredient list carefully and opt for brands that use natural ingredients and avoid artificial additives. By making informed choices about the foods we consume, we can prioritize our health and well-being.
Making Informed Choices: Tips For Choosing Healthier Ice Cream Options
When it comes to choosing a healthier ice cream option, there are several things to keep in mind. Here are some tips to help you make an informed decision:
1. Check the ingredients list: Look for ice cream with a minimum of ingredients and no additives, emulsifiers or binders including vegetable gums, carrageenan or glycols. Go for a high butterfat content as it slows down digestion and leads to a gentler blood sugar rise.
2. Watch your portions: A “serving size” of ice cream is only a half cup. To make it a tad healthier, have some at the end of a meal rather than as a snack. This helps slow the digestion of everything that you’ve already eaten, giving your body more time to digest everything more fully.
3. Consider reduced-sugar or sugar-free options: Ice cream products made with natural high-intensity sweeteners such as stevia and monk fruit are good choices. If you choose conventionally sweetened ice cream, go for cane sugar but eat small portions.
4. Try non-dairy or plant-based options: If you are generally concerned about calories or sugar, plant-based options are readily available. However, it’s important to note that some plant-based ice creams can contain as much sugar as their dairy counterparts.
By keeping these tips in mind, you can enjoy your favorite treat while making healthier choices for your body.
