Plain Block Cream Cheese Bar - 8oz - Good & Gather™
Near you
Good & Gather is carried at Target stores. Find one within 25 miles.
Summary
This cream cheese bar is primarily made from pasteurized milk and cream, which are beneficial ingredients providing essential nutrients. However, it contains multiple thickening agents such as guar gum, xanthan gum, and carob bean gum, which are highly processed and offer no nutritional benefits. The presence of these additives and its processing level limit the product's score, despite its otherwise simple ingredient list.
At a glance
Key ingredients 6
Pasteurized milk and creamGood
Pasteurized milk and cream are primary ingredients in cream cheese, providing essential nutrients like calcium and protein. The pasteurization process ensures safety by eliminating harmful bacteria. These ingredients contribute to the creamy texture and rich flavor of the product.
Benefits
Rich in calcium and protein, supporting bone health and muscle maintenance.
Cheese cultureNeutral
Cheese culture is used to ferment milk, aiding in the development of flavor and texture in cheese products. It consists of beneficial bacteria that help in the cheese-making process. While it contributes to the product's characteristics, it does not have direct health benefits.
See more about Cheese culture →SaltNeutral
Salt is used as a preservative and flavor enhancer in cheese products. It helps in controlling the fermentation process and adds to the overall taste. While necessary in small amounts, excessive consumption can lead to health issues.
Risks
High sodium intake can contribute to hypertension and cardiovascular issues.
Benefits
Essential for flavor and preservation in cheese products.
Guar gumBad
Guar gum is a thickening agent used to improve texture and stability in processed foods. It is derived from guar beans and is highly processed. While generally recognized as safe, excessive consumption can cause digestive issues.
Risks
May cause digestive discomfort such as bloating and gas when consumed in large amounts.
Benefits
Provides improved texture and consistency in food products.
Xanthan gumBad
Xanthan gum is a common food additive used as a thickener and stabilizer. It is produced through the fermentation of sugars by bacteria. Although safe for most people, it can cause digestive issues in sensitive individuals.
Risks
May lead to digestive issues like bloating and gas in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
Enhances texture and stability in food products.
Carob bean gumBad
Carob bean gum is used as a thickening and stabilizing agent in processed foods. It is derived from the seeds of the carob tree and is highly processed. While it helps improve texture, it offers no nutritional benefits.
Risks
Excessive consumption may lead to digestive discomfort.
Benefits
Improves texture and consistency in food products.
Processing
Processed Foods
Get the full breakdown in the Scout app
Scan any product to see lab results, healthy alternatives, and your personalized analysis.
Download on theApp Store