Alex's Lemonade Stand Baked Lemon Ricotta Cheese

Ricotta is a fresh cheese made from whey, cow's milk, and sheep's milk, providing a rich source of protein and calcium. It is minimally processed and contains beneficial nutrients from both cow and sheep milk. The inclusion of lactic acid aids in digestion and enhances flavor.

Beneficial ingredient — whole-food or functional value in this product class.

Lemon paste is made from sugar and lemon peel, providing flavor and a source of vitamin C. The sugar content is high, which can contribute to increased calorie intake. Lemon peel adds natural citrus oils and zest, enhancing the product's flavor profile.

Natural lemon flavoring is used to enhance the citrus taste of the product. It is derived from natural sources but is still a processed ingredient. While it adds flavor, it does not provide any nutritional benefits.

Refined sugar is used as a sweetener, contributing to the product's overall sweetness. It is a high-calorie ingredient with no essential nutrients, which can lead to weight gain if consumed in excess. Regular consumption of refined sugar is linked to various health issues, including obesity and dental cavities.

Stabilizers like food starch-modified, sodium alginate, and tetra-sodium pyrophosphate are used to maintain texture and consistency. These additives are highly processed and can contribute to the ultra-processed nature of the product. While generally recognized as safe, they offer no nutritional benefits and may cause digestive issues in sensitive individuals.