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CREAM CHEESE

Common questions

Is CREAM CHEESE healthy?

CREAM CHEESE scores 65/100 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, which limits its potential score despite having a relatively simple ingredient list.

How processed is CREAM CHEESE?

CREAM CHEESE is NOVA Group 4: Ultra-Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive CREAM CHEESE's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Pasteurized milk and cream, Cheese culture count in its favor; Stabilizers (carob bean and/or xanthan and/or guar gums) 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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CREAM CHEESE

Meijer
65 Fair

Analysis updated August 2026 · How Scout scores

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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 2
Harmful ingredients 1
Owned by Meijer, Inc.
Category Cheese
Summary

This cream cheese is ultra-processed, which limits its potential score despite having a relatively simple ingredient list. The presence of stabilizers like carob bean, xanthan, and guar gums, while generally safe, contributes to its processing level and can cause digestive issues for some individuals. The primary ingredients, pasteurized milk and cream, are beneficial, providing high-quality protein and healthy fats, but the overall processing level impacts the score.

Key ingredients 4

Pasteurized milk and cream
Good

Pasteurized milk and cream are primary sources of high-quality protein and healthy fats. The pasteurization process ensures safety by eliminating harmful bacteria while retaining nutritional value. These ingredients provide essential nutrients like calcium and vitamin D.

Benefits

Rich in protein and calcium, supporting bone health and muscle function. Provides essential vitamins and minerals necessary for overall health.

See more about Pasteurized milk and cream →
Cheese culture
Good

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

Benefits

Contributes to the development of flavor and texture in cheese products. Supports the fermentation process, which can enhance digestibility.

See more about Cheese culture →
Salt
Neutral

Salt is used as a preservative and flavor enhancer in cheese products. It is a common ingredient in food processing and does not provide additional nutritional benefits. Excessive consumption of salt can lead to health issues such as hypertension.

Risks

High sodium intake can contribute to hypertension and cardiovascular disease.

Benefits

Enhances flavor and acts as a preservative in food products.

See more about Salt →
Stabilizers (carob bean and/or xanthan and/or guar gums)
Bad

Stabilizers like carob bean, xanthan, and guar gums are used to improve texture and consistency in processed foods. These additives are often used in ultra-processed foods and can cause digestive issues in sensitive individuals. While generally recognized as safe, excessive consumption may lead to gastrointestinal discomfort.

Risks

May cause digestive issues such as bloating and gas in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

Helps maintain texture and consistency in processed foods, improving product stability.

Processing

Group 4 · Ultra-processed

Ultra-Processed Foods

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