PHILADELPHIA Cream Cheese Spread, Pineapple receives a FoodScore of 18/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its **high added sugar content** and classification as an ultra-processed food.
This PHILADELPHIA product scores 18/100, indicating it is best consumed infrequently.
It contains 10.91g of added sugar per 100g, a significant factor in its low score.
The product is classified as NOVA 4, meaning it is an ultra-processed food.
Compared to generic cream cheese, this SKU has higher sugar and lower protein.
Portion control is key, as a typical serving contributes to daily limits for added sugar.
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
359.38mg
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 (359.4mg)-1
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 18
PHILADELPHIA Cream Cheese Spread, Pineapple scores 18 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This low score is largely driven by its nutritional profile, particularly the high levels of added sugar and saturated fat. With 10.91g of added sugar per 100g, this product incurs a substantial penalty of -13 points. The saturated fat content, at 9.38g per 100g, also contributes significantly to penalties with -12 points. Furthermore, its classification as a NOVA 4 food, indicating it is ultra-processed, results in a -10 point deduction. While the product does receive minor bonuses for its protein content (6.25g) and Vitamin A (69% DV), these are not enough to offset the considerable penalties. Ingredients like sugar and pineapple juice concentrate contribute to the high sugar load. Compared to a generic cream cheese baseline, this PHILADELPHIA product contains more added sugar and is lower in protein, making it a less favorable choice from a nutritional standpoint.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in philadelphia, cream cheese spread, pineapple, pineapple actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Vitamin A
This cream cheese spread provides a notable amount of Vitamin A, contributing 69% of the Daily Value per 100g. Vitamin A is an essential fat-soluble vitamin crucial for maintaining healthy vision, immune function, and skin health. While not a primary source of vitamins in a balanced diet, this product can contribute to your daily intake of this specific micronutrient. The presence of Vitamin A palmitate indicates fortification to enhance its nutritional value.
Protein Contribution
With 6.25g of protein per 100g, this PHILADELPHIA cream cheese spread offers a modest contribution to daily protein intake. Protein is vital for muscle repair and growth, enzyme production, and overall bodily function. While not a high-protein food, incorporating it into meals can slightly boost the protein content, especially when paired with other protein-rich foods. The whey protein concentrate listed in the ingredients contributes to this protein content.
Convenient Dairy Option
As a dairy product, this cream cheese spread can be a convenient way to include dairy in your diet, which provides calcium. Calcium is essential for bone health and density. While the calcium content is 10% DV per 100g, it can still play a role in meeting daily dairy recommendations, particularly for individuals who enjoy its taste and texture. Its spreadable format makes it easy to incorporate into various snacks and meals.
PHILADELPHIA Cream Cheese Spread, Pineapple receives a FoodScore of 18/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its high added sugar content and classification as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
PHILADELPHIA Cream Cheese Spread, Pineapple is typically consumed as a spread on bagels, toast, or crackers, often as part of breakfast or a snack. A common serving size is 2 tablespoons, which can quickly add to daily sugar intake if not mindful. It's often chosen for its sweet and tangy flavor profile.
To manage added sugar intake, use a smaller portion than recommended, such as one tablespoon instead of two.
Pair this spread with whole-grain options like whole wheat toast or crackers to add fiber and improve satiety.
Consider using it as a flavor accent in savory dishes, such as a small dollop on a baked sweet potato, rather than a primary spread.
Balance the sweetness by combining it with unsweetened foods, like plain Greek yogurt or cottage cheese, for a more balanced snack.
Things to keep in mind
Individuals monitoring their sugar intake, such as those with diabetes or pre-diabetes, should be particularly mindful of this product due to its high added sugar content (10.91g per 100g). The presence of sorbic acid is as a preservative, which is generally recognized as safe, but some individuals may have sensitivities. The product also contains several gums, including carob bean gum, guar gum, and xanthan gum, which are used for texture and stability. While these are common food additives, some people with sensitive digestive systems, such as those with IBS, might experience mild digestive discomfort from certain gums in larger quantities. The product contains milk and cream, making it unsuitable for individuals with dairy allergies or lactose intolerance.
Is PHILADELPHIA Cream Cheese Spread, Pineapple healthy?
Based on its FoodScore of 18/100, PHILADELPHIA Cream Cheese Spread, Pineapple is not considered a healthy choice for regular consumption. It is high in added sugar and saturated fat, and classified as ultra-processed. While it offers some Vitamin A and protein, these benefits are outweighed by its less favorable nutritional aspects.
How does PHILADELPHIA Cream Cheese Spread, Pineapple compare to generic cream cheese?
Compared to generic plain cream cheese, this PHILADELPHIA pineapple variety has significantly more added sugar due to the pineapple and added sweeteners. Generic cream cheese typically has less sugar and a similar fat profile. For a more nutritionally favorable option, plain cream cheese would generally be preferred, especially if you add your own fresh fruit.
What is 'food starch-modified' in the ingredient list?
Food starch-modified is a common food additive used to improve texture, stability, and thickness in many processed foods. It's derived from starches like corn, potato, or wheat, and chemically or physically altered to enhance its functional properties. It does not significantly contribute to the nutritional profile of the product.
What is a reasonable portion size for this cream cheese spread?
The declared serving size is 2 tablespoons. However, given its high added sugar and saturated fat content, a more reasonable portion for regular consumption might be 1 tablespoon or less. This helps to moderate your intake of these nutrients, especially if you are consuming other sources of added sugar throughout the day.
Can this product be part of a balanced diet?
While not a daily staple, this PHILADELPHIA product can be included in a balanced diet in very small, infrequent portions. It's best treated as an occasional treat rather than a regular food item. Focus on pairing it with nutrient-dense foods and being mindful of your overall intake of added sugars and saturated fats from all sources.
How does this compare to a fruit-flavored yogurt like Chobani?
This PHILADELPHIA cream cheese spread is quite different from a fruit-flavored yogurt like Chobani. While both may contain added sugar, yogurts often provide probiotics and a higher protein content relative to their calories, especially Greek yogurts. This cream cheese is higher in fat and lower in protein than most yogurts, making it a less ideal choice for a daily dairy serving compared to a plain or lightly sweetened yogurt.