LUCERNE STRAWBERRY CREAM CHEESE SPREAD, STRAWBERRY receives a FoodScore of 11/100 (Avoid). Its low score is primarily driven by its high content of added sugar and saturated fat.
This product scores 11/100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category.
It contains 9.7g of added sugar per 100g, contributing significantly to its low score.
With 14.52g of saturated fat per 100g, it exceeds dietary recommendations.
This is a NOVA class 4 ultra-processed food, unlike generic dairy equivalents.
Consider this product for occasional use in small portions due to its nutrient profile.
Scores -22 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
3.23g
6% of Daily Value
Added sugar
9.7g
19% of Daily Value
Sodium
273.87mg
12% of Daily Value
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What it brings to the table
Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.
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What holds it back
Added sugar (9.7g)-11
Saturated fat (14.5g)-15
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 11
LUCERNE STRAWBERRY CREAM CHEESE SPREAD, STRAWBERRY earned a FoodScore of 11/100, indicating it is not a recommended choice for regular consumption according to dietary guidelines. A significant factor in this low score is the added sugar content, which stands at 9.7g per 100g. This amount contributes substantially to caloric intake without providing essential nutrients. Another major penalty comes from its high saturated fat content of 14.52g per 100g, which is above recommended daily limits and can impact cardiovascular health. The product is also classified as NOVA class 4, meaning it is ultra-processed, a category generally associated with lower nutritional quality. Ingredients like modified corn starch and guar gum are indicative of this processing level, contributing to the concentrated ultra-processed fat penalty. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, which typically has less added sugar and often lower saturated fat, this LUCERNE product presents a less favorable nutritional profile.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in lucerne strawberry cream cheese spread, strawberry actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Provides Energy for Specific Needs
While not a nutrient-dense food, this cream cheese spread does offer 290 calories per 100g, which can provide a quick source of energy. For individuals with very high caloric needs or those needing to gain weight, incorporating small amounts of calorie-dense foods like this can be a strategy. However, it is important to balance this with nutrient-rich foods to ensure overall dietary adequacy and avoid relying solely on sources high in added sugars and saturated fats.
Convenient and Readily Available
As a shelf-stable spread (when unopened) and a common item in many grocery stores, LUCERNE STRAWBERRY CREAM CHEESE SPREAD offers convenience for quick meals or snacks. Its ready-to-eat format means no preparation is required, making it accessible for busy individuals. This can be useful in situations where time is limited, though it's important to be mindful of portion sizes to manage intake of less desirable nutrients like sugar and saturated fat.
Source of Dairy Components
Despite its added ingredients, this product is made from pasteurized milk and cream, retaining some basic dairy components. While it lacks significant micronutrients like calcium and vitamin D, it does contribute to the dairy food group. For those who enjoy the taste and texture of dairy, this product can offer a familiar and palatable option, albeit one that should be consumed in moderation due to its overall nutritional composition.
LUCERNE STRAWBERRY CREAM CHEESE SPREAD, STRAWBERRY receives a FoodScore of 11/100 (Avoid). Its low score is primarily driven by its high content of added sugar and saturated fat.
How to eat it
LUCERNE STRAWBERRY CREAM CHEESE SPREAD is typically used as a spread on bagels, toast, or crackers, or as an ingredient in desserts. A common serving size is 2 tablespoons, which can quickly add up in terms of added sugar and saturated fat if not portioned carefully.
Use a measured serving size of 2 tablespoons to help control intake of added sugar and saturated fat.
Pair with whole-grain options like whole wheat toast or crackers to add fiber and improve satiety.
Consider using it as a small flavor accent rather than a primary spread, perhaps mixed with plain cream cheese to dilute the sugar content.
Things to keep in mind
Individuals with lactose intolerance may experience digestive discomfort due to the presence of milk and cream, though processed dairy products can sometimes be better tolerated. The ingredient list includes natamycin (mold inhibitor), a common preservative. While generally recognized as safe, some individuals prefer to limit foods with such additives. Those managing blood sugar levels, such as individuals with diabetes, should be aware of the 9.7g of added sugar per 100g, which can impact glycemic response. The product also contains guar gum and carob bean gum, which are thickeners that can cause digestive upset in sensitive individuals if consumed in large quantities.
Is LUCERNE STRAWBERRY CREAM CHEESE SPREAD, STRAWBERRY healthy?
This product received a FoodScore of 11/100, indicating it is not considered a healthy choice for regular consumption. It is high in added sugar (9.7g per 100g) and saturated fat (14.52g per 100g), and is classified as an ultra-processed food. While it provides calories, it offers minimal essential micronutrients.
How does LUCERNE STRAWBERRY CREAM CHEESE SPREAD compare to other cream cheese brands?
Compared to a plain cream cheese spread like Philadelphia Original Cream Cheese, LUCERNE STRAWBERRY CREAM CHEESE SPREAD has significantly more added sugar due to the strawberry flavoring. Plain cream cheese typically has less sugar, though it can still be high in saturated fat. For a more nutrient-dense option, consider plain Greek yogurt as a spread alternative.
What is 'natural flavor' in this product?
The term 'natural flavor' on an ingredient list means the flavor is derived from a natural source, such as a fruit, vegetable, or spice. However, it can still be a complex mixture of chemicals. In this LUCERNE product, it contributes to the strawberry taste without necessarily adding nutritional value, and its exact composition is proprietary.
What is a reasonable portion size for this cream cheese spread?
The suggested serving size is 2 tablespoons. Adhering to this portion helps manage the intake of added sugar and saturated fat. Consuming larger amounts regularly would significantly increase your intake of these components, making it harder to meet dietary guidelines.
Can this product be used in baking or cooking?
Yes, LUCERNE STRAWBERRY CREAM CHEESE SPREAD can be used in baking or cooking, particularly in recipes where a sweet, strawberry-flavored cream cheese is desired. However, be mindful that its added sugar and fat content will contribute to the overall nutritional profile of your dish. Adjust other ingredients accordingly to balance the flavor and nutrient load.