Original cream cheese

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Common questions

Is Original cream cheese healthy?

Original cream cheese scores 60/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This cream cheese is ultra-processed, containing multiple additives such as guar gum, carob bean gum, and xanthan gum, which are used for texture and stability but can cause digestive issues.

How processed is Original cream cheese?

Original cream cheese is NOVA Group 4: Ultra-Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Original cream cheese's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Pasteurized milk and cream, Cheese culture count in its favor; Carob bean gum is flagged as an ingredient of concern. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

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Original cream cheese

Original Cream Cheese
60 Fair

Analysis updated August 2026 · How Scout scores

$5.97 · 16 oz · $0.37 / ounce
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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 2
Harmful ingredients 1
Owned by Kraft Heinz
Category Cheese
Summary

This cream cheese is ultra-processed, containing multiple additives such as guar gum, carob bean gum, and xanthan gum, which are used for texture and stability but can cause digestive issues. While it includes beneficial ingredients like pasteurized milk and cream, the presence of these additives and its high processing level limit its healthiness compared to more traditional cheese products.

Key ingredients 6

Pasteurized milk and cream
Good

Pasteurized milk and cream are primary sources of calcium and protein, essential for bone health and muscle maintenance. The pasteurization process ensures safety by eliminating harmful bacteria. These ingredients provide a rich, creamy texture and flavor to the product.

Benefits

Rich in calcium and protein, supporting bone health and muscle maintenance. Provides a creamy texture and flavor.

See more about Pasteurized milk and cream →
Cheese culture
Good

Beneficial ingredient — whole-food or functional value in this product class.

Benefits

May contribute to gut health through beneficial bacteria, though impact is minimal in processed products.

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Salt
Neutral

Salt is used to enhance flavor and act as a preservative in cheese products. It is a common ingredient but can contribute to high sodium intake if consumed excessively. In moderation, it is a necessary component of the diet.

Risks

Excessive consumption can lead to high blood pressure and other cardiovascular issues.

Benefits

Enhances flavor and acts as a preservative in cheese products.

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Guar gum
Neutral

Standard formulation ingredient — neither beneficial nor harmful at typical use.

Risks

May cause digestive issues such as gas and bloating when consumed in large amounts.

Benefits

Improves texture and stability in processed foods.

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Xanthan gum
Neutral

Fermentation-derived thickener, well tolerated at food-use levels.

Risks

May cause digestive issues such as bloating or diarrhea in some individuals.

Benefits

Provides thickening and stabilizing properties in food products.

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Carob bean gum
Bad

Carob bean gum is used as a thickener and stabilizer in food products. It is derived from carob seeds but undergoes significant processing. While generally safe, it can cause digestive discomfort in sensitive individuals.

Risks

May cause digestive discomfort in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

Acts as a thickener and stabilizer in food products.

See more about Carob bean gum →

Processing

Group 4 · Ultra-processed

Ultra-Processed Foods

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