At a glance
Summary
This plain cream cheese is ultra-processed, which limits its score despite having beneficial ingredients like pasteurized milk and cream. The presence of additives such as guar gum, carob bean gum, and xanthan gum, which are used as stabilizers and thickeners, further impacts its rating. While these additives are generally safe, their inclusion in processed foods can contribute to digestive discomfort for some individuals.
Key ingredients 6
Pasteurized milk and creamGood
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.
Cheese cultureGood
Beneficial ingredient — whole-food or functional value in this product class.
Benefits
Contributes to the development of flavor and texture in cheese products.
SaltNeutral
Salt is used to enhance flavor and act as a preservative in cheese. It is a common ingredient in many food products. While necessary in small amounts, excessive consumption can lead to health issues such as high blood pressure.
Risks
Excessive salt intake can contribute to high blood pressure and cardiovascular issues.
Benefits
Enhances flavor and acts as a preservative in cheese products.
Guar gumNeutral
Standard formulation ingredient — neither beneficial nor harmful at typical use.
Risks
May cause digestive issues such as bloating and gas when consumed in large amounts.
Benefits
Helps improve texture and stability in processed foods.
Carob bean gumNeutral
Carob bean gum is a natural thickener derived from the seeds of the carob tree. It is used to stabilize and thicken food products. It is generally considered safe and does not have significant health impacts.
Benefits
Provides thickening and stabilizing properties in food products.
Xanthan gumNeutral
Fermentation-derived thickener, well tolerated at food-use levels.
Risks
May cause digestive discomfort such as bloating and gas in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
Improves texture and stability in processed foods.
Processing
Ultra-Processed Foods
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