LOWFAT COTTAGE CHEESE

Lucerne
60 Fair
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Summary

This low-fat cottage cheese is heavily processed, containing multiple additives such as maltodextrin, potassium sorbate, carrageenan, and polysorbate 80, which are linked to potential health concerns. Despite its good protein content and the presence of beneficial cultured milk, the high level of processing and the use of synthetic preservatives and emulsifiers significantly impact its healthiness. The product's ultra-processed nature and the presence of several additives limit its overall nutritional quality.

At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 1
Harmful ingredients 4
Owned by Safeway, Inc.
Category Cheese

Key ingredients 15

Cultured pasteurized grade a fat free milk
Good

This ingredient is a primary source of protein and calcium, essential for bone health. The pasteurization process ensures safety by eliminating harmful bacteria. Culturing enhances digestibility and adds beneficial probiotics.

Benefits

Provides high-quality protein and calcium, supporting muscle and bone health. Contains probiotics that may improve gut health.

Pasteurized milk and cream
Neutral

This ingredient adds creaminess and flavor to the product. Pasteurization ensures safety by killing harmful bacteria. It is a source of fat and calories, which can be beneficial or detrimental depending on dietary needs.

Risks

Excessive consumption may contribute to increased calorie intake and weight gain.

Benefits

Provides a creamy texture and flavor, along with essential nutrients like calcium and vitamin D.

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Salt
Neutral

Salt is used to enhance flavor and act as a preservative. It is a common ingredient in cheese products. While necessary for flavor, excessive salt intake can lead to health issues.

Risks

High sodium intake is associated with increased risk of hypertension and cardiovascular diseases.

Benefits

Enhances flavor and acts as a preservative, extending shelf life.

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Tricalcium phosphate
Neutral

Tricalcium phosphate is used as a calcium supplement and anti-caking agent. It helps maintain the texture of the product. While generally safe, excessive intake can lead to imbalances in mineral absorption.

Risks

Excessive consumption may interfere with the absorption of other minerals.

Benefits

Provides additional calcium, supporting bone health.

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Cultured grade a dairy solids
Neutral

This ingredient consists of whey, citric acid, and lactic acid culture, contributing to the product's texture and flavor. Culturing improves digestibility and adds probiotics. It is a processed ingredient but generally considered safe.

Benefits

Enhances texture and flavor while providing probiotics for gut health.

Dry grade a whey
Neutral

Whey is a byproduct of cheese production, rich in protein and used to enhance nutritional content. It is a high-quality protein source but can be allergenic for some individuals. Processing into dry form allows for longer shelf life.

Risks

May cause allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to dairy proteins.

Benefits

Rich in high-quality protein, supporting muscle maintenance and growth.

Maltodextrin
Bad

Maltodextrin is a highly processed carbohydrate used as a thickener and stabilizer. It has a high glycemic index, which can spike blood sugar levels. It is often used in processed foods due to its low cost and versatility.

Risks

May cause rapid spikes in blood sugar levels, potentially impacting insulin sensitivity.

Benefits

Provides texture and stability to the product.

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Guar gum
Neutral

Guar gum is a natural thickening agent derived from guar beans. It is used to improve texture and consistency. While generally safe, excessive consumption can cause digestive issues.

Risks

High intake may lead to digestive discomfort such as gas and bloating.

Benefits

Improves texture and consistency without significant health risks when consumed in moderation.

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Citric acid
Neutral

Citric acid is a natural preservative and flavor enhancer. It is commonly used in food products to add acidity and improve shelf life. While generally safe, some individuals may experience sensitivity.

Risks

May cause irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

Acts as a preservative and enhances flavor by adding acidity.

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Potassium sorbate
Bad

Potassium sorbate is a synthetic preservative used to prevent mold and yeast growth. It is effective in extending shelf life but is a synthetic additive. Some studies suggest potential health concerns with long-term consumption.

Risks

Potential for allergic reactions and long-term health concerns with excessive consumption.

Benefits

Effectively prevents spoilage by inhibiting mold and yeast growth.

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Carrageenan
Bad

Carrageenan is a thickening agent derived from red seaweed. It is used to improve texture but has been linked to digestive issues and inflammation in some studies. Its safety is debated, with some research suggesting potential health risks.

Risks

May cause digestive issues and inflammation in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

Improves texture and consistency of the product.

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Locust bean gum
Neutral

Locust bean gum is a natural thickener derived from carob seeds. It is used to stabilize and thicken food products. Generally considered safe, it can cause digestive discomfort if consumed in large amounts.

Risks

Excessive consumption may lead to digestive discomfort such as gas and bloating.

Benefits

Provides natural thickening and stabilizing properties.

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Polysorbate 80
Bad

Polysorbate 80 is a synthetic emulsifier used to improve texture and stability. It is a common additive in processed foods but has been linked to potential health concerns, including digestive issues and inflammation. Its use is controversial due to these potential risks.

Risks

May cause digestive issues and inflammation with long-term consumption.

Benefits

Improves texture and stability of the product.

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Carbon dioxide
Neutral

Carbon dioxide is used to maintain freshness by displacing oxygen. It is a natural and safe gas commonly used in food packaging. There are no significant health concerns associated with its use.

Benefits

Helps maintain freshness by preventing oxidation.

Vitamin a palmitate
Neutral

Vitamin A palmitate is a synthetic form of vitamin A used to fortify foods. It is important for vision and immune function. While beneficial, excessive intake can lead to toxicity.

Risks

Excessive intake may lead to vitamin A toxicity, causing health issues.

Benefits

Supports vision and immune function as a source of vitamin A.

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Processing

Group 4 · Ultra-processed

Ultra-Processed Foods

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