Common Harmful Ingredients in Ice Cream

Before diving into brands, let’s look at some concerning additives often found in ice cream:

• Red No. 3 (Erythrosine): A synthetic dye linked to thyroid tumors in animal studies.

• Titanium Dioxide: A whitening agent classified as a possible carcinogen.

• High-Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS): A cheap sweetener tied to obesity and diabetes.

• Artificial Flavors & Colors: May trigger allergies, migraines, or hyperactivity in children.

• Carrageenan & Polysorbate 80: Stabilizers linked to gut inflammation and digestive issues.

10 Ice Cream Brands to Avoid & Why

1. Breyers

   • Why Avoid? Some flavors contain Red No. 3, HFCS, and artificial flavors.

   • Better Alternative: Opt for their “Natural Vanilla” (check labels) or organic brands.

2. Blue Bell

   • Why Avoid? Uses titanium dioxide and polysorbate 80 in select flavors.

   • Better Alternative: Look for brands with simple, natural ingredients.

3. Turkey Hill

   • Why Avoid? Contains artificial flavors and preservatives like potassium sorbate.

   • Better Alternative: Choose brands with real fruit and natural sweeteners.

4. Baskin-Robbins

   • Why Avoid? Loaded with artificial dyes (Red No. 3, Yellow 5) and carrageenan.

   • Better Alternative: Try their sorbet or non-dairy options (check labels).

5. Edy’s/Dreyer’s

6. Why Avoid? Often includes polysorbate 80, carrageenan, and HFCS.

   • Better Alternative: So Delicious or homemade ice cream.

7. Friendly’s

   • Why Avoid? High in HFCS and artificial sweeteners.

   • Better Alternative: Brands sweetened with organic cane sugar or honey.

8. Great Value (Walmart Brand)

   • Why Avoid? Contains titanium dioxide, artificial colors, and cheap fillers.

   • Better Alternative: Store brands with cleaner ingredients, like Alden’s Organic.

9. Häagen-Dazs (Select Flavors)

   • Why Avoid? Some varieties have artificial colors and stabilizers.

   • Better Alternative: Their “Five Ingredient” line or Talenti Gelato.

10. Kroger Deluxe

    • Why Avoid? Uses titanium dioxide and artificial flavors.

    • Better Alternative: Kroger’s Simple Truth Organic line.

11. Perry’s Ice Cream

• Why Avoid? Relies on artificial additives and preservatives.

• Better Alternative: Small-batch brands with minimal ingredients.

Healthier Ice Cream Alternatives

If you want to enjoy ice cream without the guilt, try these better options:

 Ben & Jerry’s (Organic Line) – No synthetic dyes, fair-trade ingredients.
 So Delicious (Dairy-Free) – Made with coconut or almond milk, free of artificial additives.
 Talenti Gelato – Simple ingredients, real fruit, and no HFCS.
 Halo Top – Lower sugar, but watch for sugar alcohols if sensitive.
 Homemade Ice Cream – Control ingredients using cream, natural sweeteners, and real fruit.

Final Thoughts

You don’t have to give up ice cream—just choose wisely. Read labels, avoid artificial additives, and opt for brands with clean ingredients. By making informed choices, you can enjoy your favorite frozen treat without compromising your health.

Craving something sweet? Reach for a healthier scoop!