At a glance
Summary
This cream cheese contains pasteurized milk and cream, which are beneficial dairy ingredients providing essential nutrients. However, it also includes multiple thickening agents like guar gum, xanthan gum, and carob bean gum, which are processed additives that can cause digestive issues in some individuals. The presence of these additives and the level of processing limit its score, despite the absence of more harmful ingredients.
Key ingredients 6
Pasteurized milk and creamGood
Pasteurized milk and cream are primary dairy ingredients providing essential nutrients like calcium and protein. The pasteurization process ensures safety by eliminating harmful bacteria. These ingredients are fundamental in cheese production, contributing to the creamy texture and flavor.
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
Facilitates the fermentation process, enhancing flavor and texture in cheese.
SaltNeutral
Salt is used as a preservative and flavor enhancer in cheese. It helps control the growth of unwanted bacteria during fermentation. While necessary for flavor, excessive consumption can lead to health issues like hypertension.
Risks
Excessive salt intake can contribute to high blood pressure 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 bloating and gas 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 consistency in food products.
Carob bean gumBad
Carob bean gum is a thickening agent derived from the seeds of the carob tree. It is used to stabilize and thicken food products. While generally safe, it can cause digestive issues in some people.
Risks
May cause digestive discomfort such as bloating and gas in some individuals.
Benefits
Used to improve texture and stability in food products.
Processing
Processed Foods
Get the full breakdown in the Scout appTake Scout shopping
Scan any product to see lab results, healthy alternatives, and your personalized analysis.
Download on theApp Store GET IT ONGoogle Play