Kirkland Signature CREAM CHEESE

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Common questions

Is Kirkland Signature CREAM CHEESE healthy?

Kirkland Signature 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 score despite having a relatively simple ingredient list.

How processed is Kirkland Signature CREAM CHEESE?

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

Which ingredients drive Kirkland Signature CREAM CHEESE's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Pasteurized milk and cream, Cheese culture count in its favor. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

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Kirkland Signature CREAM CHEESE

Kirkland Signature
65 Fair

Analysis updated August 2026 · How Scout scores

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Near you

Kirkland Signature is carried at Costco stores. Find one within 25 miles.

At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 2
Harmful ingredients 0
Owned by Costco
Category Cheese
Summary

This cream cheese is ultra-processed, which limits its score despite having a relatively simple ingredient list. It contains pasteurized milk and cream, which are beneficial, but also includes guar gum, carob bean gum, and xanthan gum as thickeners, which are processed additives. While these additives are generally safe, their presence contributes to the product's processing level, impacting its overall healthiness rating.

Key ingredients 6

Pasteurized milk and cream
Good

Pasteurized milk and cream are primary sources of calcium and protein. They provide essential nutrients and are a staple in dairy products. The pasteurization process ensures safety by eliminating harmful bacteria.

Benefits

Rich in calcium and protein, supporting bone health and muscle maintenance.

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 fermentation process, enhancing flavor and texture in cheese.

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Salt
Neutral

Salt is used as a preservative and flavor enhancer in cheese. It is a common ingredient in many foods. While necessary for flavor, excessive consumption can lead to health issues.

Risks

High sodium intake can contribute to hypertension and cardiovascular issues.

Benefits

Enhances flavor and acts as a preservative in cheese.

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Guar gum
Neutral

Standard formulation ingredient — neither beneficial nor harmful at typical use.

Risks

May cause digestive discomfort such as bloating and gas when consumed in large amounts.

Benefits

Provides texture and stability to processed foods.

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Carob bean gum
Neutral

Carob bean gum is a natural thickener derived from the seeds of the carob tree. It is used to improve texture in food products. It is generally considered safe and is less processed than some other gums.

Benefits

Improves texture and stability in food products.

See more about Carob bean gum →
Xanthan gum
Neutral

Fermentation-derived thickener, well tolerated at food-use levels.

Risks

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

Benefits

Provides thickening and stabilizing properties in food products.

See more about Xanthan gum →

Processing

Group 4 · Ultra-processed

Ultra-Processed Foods

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