Reader questions
Is BREAKSTONE'S 2% Milkfat Lowfat Cottage Cheese & Mango Topping healthy?
This product has a FoodScore of 44/100, rated as Poor. While it provides protein (6.36g/100g) and Vitamin A (51% DV/100g), it is an ultra-processed food (NOVA 4) and contains added sugar in the mango topping. It can fit into a balanced diet as an occasional snack, but it's not a primary source of whole, unprocessed nutrients.
How does BREAKSTONE'S 2% Milkfat Lowfat Cottage Cheese & Mango Topping compare to generic lowfat cottage cheese?
Compared to generic lowfat cottage cheese, this BREAKSTONE'S product includes a mango topping with added sugar and several stabilizers like modified food starch. Generic lowfat cottage cheese typically has a simpler ingredient list and no added sugars, making it a less processed option. This SKU offers convenience with its pre-mixed fruit.
What is 'modified food starch' and should I be concerned about it?
Modified food starch is a common food additive used as a thickener, stabilizer, or emulsifier. It's derived from starches like corn, potato, or wheat. While generally considered safe for consumption, some individuals with sensitive digestive systems might find large amounts problematic. Its presence contributes to the product's ultra-processed classification.
What is a reasonable portion size for this cottage cheese?
The serving size is one container, which is 150g. This provides 136 calories, 9.5g of protein, and 395mg of sodium. For most adults, one container is a reasonable snack portion. If you are monitoring calorie or sodium intake, consider this amount in your daily totals.
Does this product contain live and active cultures?
The ingredient list states 'cultured pasteurized grade A skim milk,' indicating that cultures were used in its production. However, the label does not explicitly state 'live and active cultures' as you might see on some yogurts like Chobani or FAGE. This means the beneficial bacteria may not be present in significant amounts or may not be viable due to processing.
Is the mango topping made with real mango?
Yes, the ingredient list for the mango topping includes 'mangos' and 'mango puree concentrate,' indicating that real mango is used. However, it also contains water, sugar, and modified food starch, meaning it's not simply pure fruit but a formulated fruit topping.