Publix Sandwich Cookies, Chocolate Creme — DUMP

Munch or Dump rates Publix Sandwich Cookies, Chocolate Creme by Publix DUMP — score 17/90.

This Oreo dupe is built on hydrogenated soybean oil, a source of industrial trans fat that is unacceptable regardless of how good it tastes. Layer on refined flour, two sugars, artificial flavor, propylene glycol, and caramel color and you have an ultra-processed cookie start to finish. The lower price does not change what is in the package.

Why this verdict

• Contains hydrogenated soybean oil, a source of trans fat
• Refined flour plus sugar plus molasses hyper-palatable formulation
• Natural and artificial flavors plus caramel color with sulfites
• Industrial humectants: propylene glycol and ethyl alcohol

Ingredients (9)

• HYDROGENATED SOYBEAN OIL (avoid) — A source of artificial trans fat linked to heart disease. Forces the DUMP verdict on its own.
• wheat flour (moderate) — Refined flour base; the fast-digesting starch half of the hyper-palatable triad.
• Sugar (moderate) — Small added sweetener to balance acidity; minor at salsa portions.
• cocoa processed with alkali (safe) — Dutched cocoa for chocolate flavor and color.
• molasses (safe) — Adds color and flavor but is still a sugar — fourth sweetener source.
• Natural and Artificial Flavors (moderate) — Includes synthetic flavoring; not a whole-food ingredient.
• propylene glycol (caution) — Industrial humectant to keep the creme soft. Approved but not a kitchen ingredient.
• Caramel Color with Sulfites (caution) — Artificial coloring; some caramel colors carry a processing-contaminant concern.
• Soy Lecithin (safe) — Emulsifier in the chocolate chips; common and low concern.