Health score
0
/ 100Verdict: unhealthy
Philadelphia Cream Cheese receives a 35/100 health score primarily due to its extremely high saturated fat content and limited nutritional density. The significant environmental impact of dairy production further lowers its overall sustainability rating.
Key takeaways
- Extremely high saturated fat at 22g per 100g
- Contains beneficial live cheese cultures
- Significant environmental footprint from dairy
- Moderate sodium levels at 392.85mg
- Contains only four primary ingredients
Our read on this product
With 35.71g of total fat and 22g of saturated fat per 100g, Philadelphia Cream Cheese exceeds recommended limits for daily intake. While it features clean ingredients like pasteurized milk, cream, and beneficial cheese cultures, these do not offset the high sodium content of 392.85mg per 100g serving. The product earns an unhealthy rating of 35/100 because of this concentrated caloric density.
Best for
This product is suitable for occasional culinary use in small amounts for those who prioritize traditional flavor and texture in baking or cooking.
Approach with care
Individuals managing high cholesterol, cardiovascular health concerns, or those following a low-fat or plant-based diet should avoid this product.
Ingredient breakdown
Good ingredients
Neutral ingredients
Ingredients to watch
PASTEURIZED MILK AND CREAM
These dairy components form the base of the product, providing protein and fats. Pasteurization ensures food safety by eliminating harmful bacteria through heat treatment.
SALT
Added to enhance flavor and preserve the product's texture. High consumption can be linked to elevated blood pressure and cardiovascular issues.
CAROB BEAN GUM
A natural thickening agent derived from the seeds of the carob tree. It is generally recognized as safe and helps maintain the smooth, spreadable consistency of the cheese.
CHEESE CULTURE
Beneficial microorganisms that ferment the dairy sugars into lactic acid. This process gives the cheese its distinct tangy flavor and acts as a natural preservation method.
Nutrition facts
Values shown 100g
Energy
357.14 kcal
Protein
7.14g
Carbs
3.57g
Fat
35.71g
Fiber
0g
Sugar
3.57g
Sodium
392.85mg
Saturated fat
22g
Fiber
0g
How it scores against your goal
Mood Effect
The high fat content provides little to no cognitive benefit and lacks the nutrients required for mood regulation.
Muscle Gain
With only 7.14g of protein per 100g, it is not an effective source for muscle protein synthesis.
Weight Loss
Its high caloric density and high fat content make it a poor choice for weight loss.
Flu Recovery
It lacks the essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants needed to support a robust immune response.
Fever Recovery
The heavy fat content can be difficult to digest for someone suffering from fever-related digestive discomfort.
Pcos Management
High saturated fat and dairy content may trigger inflammation or hormonal imbalances in some individuals with PCOS.
Diabetes Management
While low in carbohydrates, the high saturated fat content can negatively affect insulin sensitivity over time.
Myth busters
It is a great source of protein.
With only 7.14g of protein per 100g, it is not a meaningful protein source for a balanced diet.
It contains natural thickening agents.
Carob bean gum is a natural thickener derived from carob seeds used to maintain texture.
It is a low-fat dairy option.
With 35.71g of fat per 100g, this product is exceptionally high in fat rather than low.
Frequently asked questions
Is cream cheese by Philadelphia healthy?
+
Cream cheese by Philadelphia is not considered healthy due to its high saturated fat and calorie content, which can contribute to weight gain and cardiovascular issues when consumed in large portions.
What is the main nutritional concern with cream cheese by Philadelphia?
+
Cream cheese by Philadelphia contains 22g of saturated fat per 100g, which is significantly high and does not align with dietary guidelines that encourage minimizing saturated fat intake.
What is the key ingredient in cream cheese by Philadelphia?
+
Cream cheese by Philadelphia primarily consists of pasteurized milk and cream, which provide the base structure and flavor for the product.
Can cream cheese by Philadelphia fit into a diet plan?
+
Cream cheese by Philadelphia can only fit into a diet plan if used sparingly as an occasional ingredient, as its nutrient-to-calorie ratio is very poor compared to whole food sources.
What is a better alternative to cream cheese by Philadelphia?
+
Cream cheese by Philadelphia can be substituted with low-fat Greek yogurt or blended silken tofu, both of which offer higher protein and significantly lower saturated fat.