Oreo Chocolate Sandwich Cookies
A sugar- and refined-oil-heavy ultra-processed cookie that's fine as an occasional treat but offers little nutritional value.
Ingredients (10)
Sugar
Sugar is the first ingredient, so it is the largest component by weight. High added sugar intake is linked to weight gain, dental decay and increased risk of type 2 diabetes.
Unbleached Enriched Flour
Refined flour digests quickly and raises blood sugar. Enrichment restores some B vitamins and iron lost in processing, but it doesn't replace the fiber of whole grains.
Palm and/or Canola Oil
ControversialPalm oil is high in saturated fat and is linked to deforestation concerns. Canola oil is lower in saturated fat, but it is refined. The manufacturer can use either or both.
Cocoa (processed with alkali)
Cocoa provides the chocolate flavor and color. Alkali processing reduces the flavanols, but the amount of cocoa is too small to matter nutritionally or as a risk.
High Fructose Corn Syrup
ControversialThis is another added sugar. Metabolically it is similar to sugar, but its presence alongside sucrose increases total sugar content. High intakes of fructose are linked to fatty liver and metabolic problems.
Leavening (Baking Soda and/or Calcium Phosphate)
E500 / E341These are common, well-studied ingredients that make the cookie rise, and they are considered safe at food levels.
Salt
The amount of salt per serving is modest, but it adds up if you eat several servings or other salty foods.
Soy Lecithin
E322This is a widely used emulsifier that is generally regarded as safe. It is an allergen for people with soy allergies, but highly refined lecithin contains very little soy protein.
Chocolate
A minor ingredient that adds chocolate flavor and poses no known safety concerns.
Artificial Flavor (Vanillin)
Vanillin is considered safe by regulators at food levels. It is rated yellow because it is a processed flavoring that replaces real vanilla and signals ultra-processing.
Healthier alternatives
More cocoa flavanols, less sugar, and more satisfying in small amounts
Find on AmazonMade with almond flour and fewer refined ingredients, with less sugar
Find on AmazonOreo has been sold since 1912 and is often described as the best-selling cookie of the 20th century. Its distinctive embossed design has changed several times over the years.