ORIGINAL CREAM CHEESE, ORIGINAL
Analysis updated September 2026 · How Scout scores
At a glance
Summary
This cream cheese is ultra-processed, which limits its score despite having a relatively simple ingredient list. The presence of additives like guar gum, carob bean gum, and xanthan gum, which are used for thickening and stabilizing, contributes to its processing level. While it contains beneficial ingredients like pasteurized milk and cream, the use of these additives and its processing level prevent it from scoring higher.
Key ingredients 6
Pasteurized milk and creamGood
Pasteurized milk and cream provide essential nutrients like calcium and protein. The pasteurization process ensures safety by eliminating harmful bacteria. It is a primary source of high-quality dairy fats and proteins.
Benefits
Rich in calcium and protein, supporting bone health and muscle maintenance.
Cheese cultureGood
Beneficial ingredient — whole-food or functional value in this product class.
Benefits
Contributes to the fermentation process, enhancing flavor and texture.
SaltNeutral
Salt is used for flavor enhancement and preservation in cheese. It is a common ingredient in many foods. Excessive consumption can lead to health issues like hypertension.
Risks
High sodium intake may contribute to hypertension and cardiovascular issues.
Benefits
Enhances flavor and acts as a preservative in cheese.
Guar gumNeutral
Standard formulation ingredient — neither beneficial nor harmful at typical use.
Risks
May cause digestive discomfort such as gas and bloating when consumed in large amounts.
Benefits
Provides texture and stability to processed foods.
Xanthan gumNeutral
Fermentation-derived thickener, well tolerated at food-use levels.
Risks
May cause digestive issues such as bloating and gas in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
Improves texture and stability in processed foods.
Carob bean gumBad
Carob bean gum is used as a stabilizer and thickener in food products. It is derived from the seeds of the carob tree and is processed to extract the gum. Overconsumption may lead to digestive issues.
Risks
Potential to cause digestive issues like bloating and gas if consumed in excess.
Benefits
Helps improve texture and consistency in food products.
Processing
Ultra-Processed Foods
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