The Good Stuff Simple Swaps. Every Wednesday I share a new Good Stuff Simple Swap, one simple change that helps clean up your everyday eats without overhauling your whole pantry. You can find all the past swaps here!
Finding pickles without artificial dyes shouldn’t be this hard, but somehow it is. Most jars on the shelf contain Yellow #5 or Yellow #6 to give them an unnaturally bright glow. Since cucumbers are already green, these chemicals are added purely for looks.
These artificial dyes don’t add flavor; they simply add unnecessary additives to your snack. Many conventional brands also use high fructose corn syrup as a sweetener, which is another ingredient we try to avoid for better balance in our daily eats.
This week’s swap is all about keeping pickles simple and real.
Dye-Free Pickles: Clean Ingredient Favorites
If you want a good, crunchy pickle without the extras, look for these brands in your local grocery store:
- Grillo’s Pickles: These are probably the easiest to find. They are located in the refrigerated section because they don’t use stabilizers or dyes.
- Thrive Market Kosher Dill Pickles: A great pantry staple if you shop online.
- 365 by Whole Foods Organic Pickles: A reliable organic option that skips the coloring.
Step It Up: Fermented Pickles
If you want to take your nutrition a step further, look for fermented pickles. Unlike vinegar-based pickles, fermented versions are brined naturally. This process creates beneficial probiotics that support a healthy gut environment.
Fermented pickles will always be found in the refrigerated section. If you see a cloudy brine in the jar, don’t worry. That cloudiness is a natural byproduct of the fermentation process and a sign that the “good stuff” is in there.
Great Fermented Options:
- Bubbies: I find these at Kroger. Note that they offer both fermented and vinegar-based options, so check the label for “Active Cultures.”
- Olive My Pickle: You can order directly from their site. They have a massive variety of fermented foods.
- Cleveland Kitchen: I have actually seen these at Walmart lately.
A Quick Refrigerator Hack
A great suggestion came from Dawn in the comments! You can use quick refrigerator pickle kits to make your own at home. You just add fresh cucumbers straight to the bag for an easy, delicious snack.
Pickle Swap FAQs
Why are some pickles in the refrigerated section and others on the shelf?
Shelf-stable pickles are pasteurized with heat and vinegar, which kills off bacteria (both good and bad) so they can sit in the pantry. Refrigerated pickles like Grillo’s or Bubbies are often “live” or simply fresher, requiring cold temperatures to maintain their crunch and probiotic counts.
What is the difference between vinegar pickles and fermented pickles?
Vinegar pickles get their tang from acetic acid (vinegar). Fermented pickles get their tang from lactic acid produced by natural bacteria. While vinegar pickles are still a great low-calorie snack, only fermented pickles provide probiotics.
Are “natural flavors” in pickles okay?
While not as concerning as artificial dyes, “natural flavors” can be a bit of a mystery. When possible, look for jars that list actual spices like garlic, dill, and mustard seed instead.
Are these better for kids?
Many families find that removing artificial dyes like Yellow #5 helps with maintaining focus and more stable energy levels in children. It is a simple way to clean up their school lunches!
Good stuff. Simple swap.
You can find all the past swaps here and don’t forget to check back next Wednesday for the next Good Stuff Simple Swap!
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