PHILADELPHIA CREAM CHEESE SPREAD, BLACK CHERRY receives a FoodScore of 18/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its **high levels of added sugar and saturated fat**, and its classification as an ultra-processed food.
FoodScore: 18/100 (Avoid) due to significant added sugar and saturated fat.
Contains 10.91g of added sugar per 100g, contributing to a major penalty.
Provides 69% DV of Vitamin A per 100g, a notable micronutrient contribution.
This product is classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is ultra-processed.
Consider this as an occasional treat rather than a daily staple.
Scores -15 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
6.25g
13% of Daily Value
Added sugar
10.91g
22% of Daily Value
Sodium
375mg
16% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (6.3g)+2
Micronutrients (Vitamin A)+2
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (10.9g)-13
Saturated fat (9.4g)-12
Sodium (375mg)-1
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 18
PHILADELPHIA CREAM CHEESE SPREAD, BLACK CHERRY scores 18 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This low score is largely driven by its high content of added sugar and saturated fat. With 10.91g of added sugar per 100g, it incurs a significant penalty, aligning with dietary guidelines to limit added sugars. The product also contains 9.38g of saturated fat per 100g, which contributes another substantial penalty. While it offers 6.25g of protein and a notable 69% Daily Value of Vitamin A per 100g, these positive contributions are outweighed by the penalties. The presence of sugar as a primary ingredient, along with various gums like carob bean gum and guar gum, contributes to its classification as an ultra-processed food (NOVA 4), incurring an additional penalty. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent like plain cream cheese, this PHILADELPHIA product contains considerably more added sugar and a similar amount of saturated fat, making it a less favorable choice for regular consumption.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in philadelphia cream cheese spread, black cherry actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Vitamin A
This product provides a notable amount of Vitamin A, with 69% of the Daily Value per 100g serving. Vitamin A is an essential fat-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy vision, immune function, and skin health. While not a primary source of vitamins for most diets, this spread can contribute to your daily intake of this important micronutrient. However, it's important to consider the overall nutritional profile, including the added sugar and saturated fat, when incorporating it into your diet.
Protein Contribution
PHILADELPHIA CREAM CHEESE SPREAD, BLACK CHERRY offers 6.25g of protein per 100g. Protein is vital for muscle repair, growth, and overall bodily functions. While this amount is not exceptionally high compared to other protein-rich dairy products, it does contribute to your daily protein needs. For individuals looking to increase their protein intake, combining this spread with other protein sources, such as whole-grain crackers or fruit, could be a strategy, keeping in mind the other nutritional aspects of the product.
Convenient Dairy Option
As a dairy product, this spread can be a convenient way to incorporate some dairy into your diet, which provides calcium. Calcium is essential for bone health and various physiological processes. While this specific product contains 10% DV of calcium per 100g, it is not a primary source compared to plain milk or yogurt. Its convenience lies in its spreadable format, making it easy to add to various foods for flavor and texture, though moderation is key due to its added sugar and saturated fat content.
PHILADELPHIA CREAM CHEESE SPREAD, BLACK CHERRY receives a FoodScore of 18/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its high levels of added sugar and saturated fat, and its classification as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
Cream cheese spreads like PHILADELPHIA CREAM CHEESE SPREAD, BLACK CHERRY are commonly used as a topping for bagels, toast, or crackers. A typical serving size is 2 tablespoons. Due to its sweet profile and creamy texture, it's often enjoyed as a breakfast item or a snack, but its nutritional composition suggests moderation.
Pair with whole-grain options like whole wheat toast or crackers to add fiber and reduce the overall glycemic impact.
Use a smaller portion, such as 1 tablespoon, to manage intake of added sugar and saturated fat.
Combine with fresh fruit, such as sliced apples or berries, to add vitamins and fiber, balancing the sweetness.
Consider using it as an occasional treat rather than a daily staple due to its ultra-processed nature and nutrient profile.
Things to keep in mind
Individuals monitoring their intake of added sugars should be mindful of this product's content, as sugar is a prominent ingredient. Those with lactose intolerance may experience digestive discomfort due to the milk and cream content. The product also contains modified food starch, carob bean gum, guar gum, and xanthan gum, which are common food additives used for texture and stability. While generally recognized as safe, some individuals may be sensitive to certain gums. The presence of sorbic acid as a preservative helps maintain product freshness. Always check the ingredient list for specific allergens, though this product primarily contains dairy.
Is PHILADELPHIA CREAM CHEESE SPREAD, BLACK CHERRY considered healthy?
With a FoodScore of 18/100, PHILADELPHIA CREAM CHEESE SPREAD, BLACK CHERRY is not considered a healthy choice for regular consumption. Its score is significantly impacted by high levels of added sugar and saturated fat, and its classification as an ultra-processed food. While it offers some Vitamin A and protein, these benefits are outweighed by less desirable nutritional components.
How does PHILADELPHIA CREAM CHEESE SPREAD, BLACK CHERRY compare to plain cream cheese?
Compared to plain cream cheese, PHILADELPHIA CREAM CHEESE SPREAD, BLACK CHERRY contains significantly more added sugar (10.91g per 100g vs. typically 0g in plain versions). Both products generally contain similar amounts of saturated fat. For a more favorable nutritional profile, a plain cream cheese, such as a generic store brand, would be a better choice as it avoids the added sugars.
What is 'Natural Flavor' in the ingredient list?
Natural flavor is a broad term used to describe flavorings derived from natural sources, such as fruits, vegetables, spices, or dairy. Its purpose is to enhance the taste of the product. While derived from natural sources, the exact components and processing methods are not disclosed, and it does not contribute to the nutritional value of the food.
What is a reasonable portion size for this spread?
A reasonable portion size for PHILADELPHIA CREAM CHEESE SPREAD, BLACK CHERRY is typically 2 tablespoons. However, given its high added sugar and saturated fat content, consuming smaller portions, such as 1 tablespoon, or using it less frequently, would be a more balanced approach. Pairing it with nutrient-dense foods can also help mitigate its impact.
Can this product be part of a balanced diet?
While not a core component of a balanced diet, PHILADELPHIA CREAM CHEESE SPREAD, BLACK CHERRY can be included occasionally as a treat. Its ultra-processed nature and high added sugar content mean it should not be a regular staple. Focus on incorporating whole, unprocessed foods for the majority of your diet to achieve optimal nutrition.