Onion + Chive Cream Cheese Spread
Near you
Trader Joe's is carried at Trader Joe stores. Find one within 25 miles.
Summary
This cream cheese spread contains beneficial ingredients like pasteurized milk and cream, which provide essential nutrients and a creamy texture. However, the presence of multiple additives such as guar gum, locust bean gum, and xanthan gum, which are used for thickening and stabilizing, detracts from its overall healthiness. The product is moderately processed, which limits its score despite the absence of harmful artificial ingredients.
At a glance
Key ingredients 9
Pasteurized milkGood
Pasteurized milk is a primary source of calcium and protein, essential for bone health and muscle maintenance. The pasteurization process ensures safety by eliminating harmful bacteria. It is a fundamental ingredient in dairy products, providing a creamy texture and nutritional benefits.
Benefits
Rich in calcium and protein, supporting bone health and muscle function.
Pasteurized creamGood
Pasteurized cream adds richness and a smooth texture to dairy products. It is a source of healthy fats and fat-soluble vitamins. The pasteurization process ensures safety by reducing microbial content.
Risks
High in saturated fats, which should be consumed in moderation to maintain heart health.
Benefits
Provides a rich source of fats and fat-soluble vitamins, enhancing flavor and texture.
Dried onionsGood
Dried onions offer flavor and potential health benefits due to their antioxidant content. They are a concentrated source of quercetin, which may support heart health. The drying process preserves these beneficial compounds while extending shelf life.
Benefits
Contains antioxidants like quercetin, which may support heart health.
Dried chivesNeutral
Dried chives provide a mild onion-like flavor and are used as a seasoning. They contain small amounts of vitamins and minerals. The drying process helps preserve their flavor and extends shelf life.
Benefits
Adds flavor and contains trace amounts of vitamins and minerals.
SaltNeutral
Salt is used to enhance flavor and preserve food. It is a necessary nutrient but should be consumed in moderation. Excessive intake can lead to health issues such as hypertension.
Risks
Excessive salt intake can contribute to high blood pressure and cardiovascular issues.
Benefits
Essential for maintaining fluid balance and nerve function.
Guar gumBad
Guar gum is used as a thickening agent in processed foods. It can cause digestive issues in sensitive individuals. While it helps improve texture, it is an additive that some consumers prefer to avoid.
Risks
May cause digestive discomfort such as bloating or gas in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
Improves texture and consistency in food products.
Locust bean gumBad
Locust bean gum is a natural thickener derived from carob seeds. It is used to stabilize and thicken food products. Although generally safe, it is an additive that some consumers may wish to avoid.
Risks
May cause digestive issues in large amounts or in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
Helps stabilize and thicken food products, improving texture.
Xanthan gumBad
Xanthan gum is a common food additive used for thickening and stabilizing. It is produced through fermentation, which can cause digestive issues for some people. While effective in improving texture, it is an additive that some consumers prefer to avoid.
Risks
May cause digestive discomfort such as bloating or gas in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
Improves texture and stability in food products.
GarlicNeutral
Garlic is used for its flavor and potential health benefits, including antimicrobial properties. It contains allicin, which may support heart health. However, the amount used in processed foods is typically small.
Benefits
Contains allicin, which may have antimicrobial and heart health benefits.
Processing
Processed Foods
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