Is Limited Edition Goldfish Old Bay Seasoned Safe? Ingredient Analysis
Pepperidge Farm
Pepperidge Farm's Limited Edition Goldfish Old Bay Seasoned is reviewed here as a snack. Zerotox gives it 60/100 based on the current ingredient profile, so it looks generally acceptable but still includes some ingredients worth reviewing.
The ingredient review below focuses especially on Monosodium Glutamate.
60 / 100
Why score is 60
The composition includes enriched wheat flour and vegetable oils, which are common in snack foods. However, the presence of monosodium glutamate (MSG) and sugar raises concerns about processed ingredients. Old Bay seasoning adds flavor but also includes sodium diacetate and natural flavor, indicating a mix of quality and safety considerations.
Main concern
Contains monosodium glutamate (MSG), which is a flavor enhancer that some consumers prefer to avoid due to potential sensitivity.
Why it matters: This ingredient is flagged in our analysis based on regulatory and scientific sources. Check the Ingredients section for details and see Data sources for methodology.
Regulation status: Ingredient safety is assessed from EU/EPA/CIR and similar databases; formulations may vary. Always read the product label.
Pros
- Enriched wheat flour provides essential nutrients like niacin and iron, contributing positively to the overall composition.
- Old Bay seasoning adds a unique flavor profile, enhancing the snack experience without excessive artificial ingredients.
Concerns
- Contains monosodium glutamate (MSG), which is a flavor enhancer that some consumers prefer to avoid due to potential sensitivity.
- Includes sugar, which raises concerns about added sweeteners in a savory snack, indicating a more processed composition.
Who should avoid this product?
This formula may not suit:
- people with sensitive skin or fragrance sensitivity
- people avoiding animal-derived ingredients
Ingredients breakdown
Below, each ingredient is described in the context of this snack, not just listed as a raw label.
-
Is Enriched Wheat Flour safe in this snack?
Medium
Enriched Wheat Flour is used here as base. Enriched wheat flour is the primary ingredient providing structure and nutrients. While it adds essential vitamins and minerals, the refining process raises concerns about the loss of fiber and other beneficial components.
Role in formula: base
Original: ENRICHED WHEAT FLOUR (FLOUR, NIACIN, REDUCED IRON, THIAMINE MONONITRATE, RIBOFLAVIN, FOLIC ACID)
-
Is Vegetable Oils safe in this snack?
Medium
Vegetable Oils is used here as base. Vegetable oils, including canola and sunflower, are used for texture and flavor. While they are common in snacks, concerns about the health implications of refined oils persist, particularly regarding omega-6 fatty acid balance.
Role in formula: base
Original: VEGETABLE OILS (CANOLA, SUNFLOWER AND/OR SOYBEAN)
-
Is Old Bay Seasoning safe in this snack?
Medium
Old Bay Seasoning is used here as flavor. Old Bay seasoning is a blend that adds flavor to the snack. While it enhances taste, it contains sodium diacetate and natural flavor, which may raise concerns about the presence of processed ingredients.
Role in formula: flavor
Original: OLD BAY SEASONING (SALT, SPICES, CELERY, CORN MALTODEXTRIN, PAPRIKA [COLOR], MODIFIED CORN STARCH, SODIUM DIACETATE, YEAST EXTRACT, GARLIC POWDER MONOSODIUM GLUTAMATE, CITRIC ACID, VINEGAR SOLIDS, EXTRACTIVES OF PAPRIKA, DISODIUM INOSINATE AND GUANYLATE, NATURAL FLAVOR)
-
Is Salt safe in this snack?
Good
Salt is used here as flavor. Salt is used to enhance flavor in this snack. While it is a natural ingredient, excessive sodium intake is a concern for many consumers, particularly in processed foods.
Role in formula: flavor
Original: SALT
-
Is Nonfat Milk safe in this snack?
Medium
Nonfat Milk is used here as base. Nonfat milk adds creaminess and flavor. While it contributes to the overall taste, it may pose allergen risks for individuals with dairy sensitivities.
Role in formula: base
Original: NONFAT MILK
-
Is Sugar safe in this snack?
Medium
Sugar is used here as sweetener. Sugar is included in small amounts, which can enhance flavor but raises concerns about added sweeteners in a savory snack, indicating a more processed composition.
Role in formula: sweetener
Original: SUGAR
-
Is Monosodium Glutamate safe in this snack?
Bad
Monosodium Glutamate is used here as flavor. Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is a flavor enhancer that can cause sensitivity in some individuals. Its presence indicates a more processed ingredient profile, which may be a concern for health-conscious consumers.
Role in formula: flavor
Original: MONOSODIUM GLUTAMATE
-
Is Baking Soda safe in this snack?
Medium
Baking Soda is used here as leavening agent. Baking soda is used as a leavening agent to help the snack achieve its texture. While it is a common ingredient, excessive consumption can lead to health concerns.
Role in formula: leavening agent
Original: BAKING SODA
-
Is Paprika safe in this snack?
Good
Paprika is used here as colorant. Paprika is a natural colorant that adds visual appeal and flavor. It is derived from peppers and is generally considered a safe ingredient.
Role in formula: colorant
Original: PAPRIKA
-
Is Onion Powder safe in this snack?
Good
Onion Powder is used here as flavor. Onion powder contributes to the flavor profile of the snack. It is a natural ingredient that enhances taste without the need for artificial additives.
Role in formula: flavor
Original: ONION POWDER
How we score
Our safety scores and ingredient breakdowns are based on regulatory and scientific sources. See Data sources & methodology and How Zerotox works for full details.
Product info
Product ID: 2374675
More from this brand: Pepperidge Farm products in Zerotox
Similar products: snack in Zerotox database
Allergens detected: wheat , milk
Report / complain: You may report errors or complain about this product or its formulation to hello [at] zeroto.app . Published for transparency.