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Cream Cheese

Image: Open Food Facts (CC BY-SA 3.0)

Common questions

Is Cream Cheese healthy?

Cream Cheese scores 80/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This cream cheese contains high-quality ingredients like pasteurized milk and cream, which provide essential nutrients and contribute to its creamy texture.

How processed is Cream Cheese?

Cream Cheese is NOVA Group 3: Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Cream Cheese's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Pasteurized Milk And Cream, Cheese Culture count in its favor; Carob Bean Gum is flagged as an ingredient of concern. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

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Analysis updated September 2026 · How Scout scores

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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 2
Harmful ingredients 1
Category Cheese
Summary

This cream cheese contains high-quality ingredients like pasteurized milk and cream, which provide essential nutrients and contribute to its creamy texture. The presence of cheese culture is beneficial for flavor and potential gut health. However, the inclusion of carob bean gum as a thickening agent introduces a level of processing that can cause digestive issues in some individuals, slightly impacting the overall score.

Key ingredients 5

Pasteurized Milk And Cream
Good

Pasteurized milk and cream are primary sources of high-quality protein and calcium. The pasteurization process ensures safety by eliminating harmful bacteria. These ingredients provide essential nutrients and contribute to the creamy texture of the product.

Benefits

Rich in protein and calcium, supporting bone health and muscle function. Provides a creamy texture and flavor to the product.

See more about Pasteurized Milk And Cream →
Cheese Culture
Good

Cheese culture is essential for the fermentation process, contributing to flavor and texture. It consists of beneficial bacteria that aid in the development of cheese. These cultures can also support gut health by promoting beneficial bacteria.

Benefits

Supports the fermentation process and may contribute to gut health by promoting beneficial bacteria.

See more about Cheese Culture →
Salt
Neutral

Salt is used to enhance flavor and preserve the product. It is a common ingredient in dairy products to balance 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

Enhances flavor and acts as a preservative in the product.

See more about Salt →
Natamycin
Neutral

Natamycin is a natural antifungal used to prevent spoilage in dairy products. It is considered safe for consumption in small amounts. While it helps extend shelf life, it does not provide nutritional benefits.

Benefits

Prevents spoilage and extends the shelf life of the product.

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Carob Bean Gum
Bad

Carob bean gum is used as a thickening agent to improve texture. It is a processed additive that can cause digestive issues in sensitive individuals. While it provides no nutritional benefits, it is commonly used in processed foods.

Risks

May cause digestive discomfort or allergic reactions in some individuals.

See more about Carob Bean Gum →

Processing

Group 3 · Processed

Processed Foods

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