PHILADELPHIA WHIPPED CREAM CHEESE SPREAD scores 23/100 (Avoid) due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and its high saturated fat content.
This PHILADELPHIA product receives a FoodScore of 23/100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category.
It is classified as a NOVA class 4 food, indicating it is ultra-processed.
A serving contains 13.59g of saturated fat per 100g, contributing significantly to its low score.
Compared to generic cream cheese, this whipped spread has a similar nutrient profile but with added stabilizers.
Use in small portions to manage intake of saturated fat and sodium.
Scores -10 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
4.55g
9% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
409.09mg
18% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Micronutrients (Vitamin A)+2
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (13.6g)-15
Sodium (409.1mg)-1
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 23
PHILADELPHIA WHIPPED CREAM CHEESE SPREAD earns a FoodScore of 23 out of 100, primarily due to its classification as a NOVA class 4 ultra-processed food. This categorization incurs a significant 10-point penalty. The product's high saturated fat content, at 13.59g per 100g, leads to a substantial 15-point deduction. Additionally, its sodium level of 409.09mg per 100g results in a minor 1-point penalty. The presence of concentrated ultra-processed fat further reduces the score by 3 points. While the product contains 0g of added sugar, which is a positive aspect, and provides 101% DV of Vitamin A, earning a 2-point bonus, these benefits are outweighed by the penalties. Ingredients like modified food starch, carob bean gum, and xanthan gum contribute to its ultra-processed nature. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, this PHILADELPHIA product is formulated with additional stabilizers and thickeners, which are characteristic of ultra-processed items and influence its lower score.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in philadelphia whipped cream cheese spread actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Vitamin A
PHILADELPHIA WHIPPED CREAM CHEESE SPREAD is a good source of Vitamin A, providing 101% of the Daily Value per 100g. Vitamin A is an essential fat-soluble vitamin that plays a role in vision, immune function, and cellular communication. Including foods with Vitamin A can contribute to meeting daily nutrient requirements, especially when balanced with other nutrient-dense foods. This product can help contribute to your daily Vitamin A intake.
Versatile Culinary Ingredient
This whipped cream cheese spread offers culinary versatility as a base for various dishes. Its texture makes it easy to spread and blend, allowing for its use in both sweet and savory applications. While its nutritional profile suggests moderation, its functional properties can be leveraged in recipes where a creamy texture is desired, such as in dips, sauces, or as a topping. It can be a convenient option for adding richness to meals.
Convenient Dairy Option
As a dairy product, PHILADELPHIA WHIPPED CREAM CHEESE SPREAD can be a convenient way to incorporate some dairy into the diet. Dairy products contain calcium, which is important for bone health. While this specific product is not a significant source of calcium (7% DV per 100g), it can be part of a varied diet that includes other calcium-rich foods. Its ready-to-use format offers ease of preparation for quick meals or snacks.
PHILADELPHIA WHIPPED CREAM CHEESE SPREAD scores 23/100 (Avoid) due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and its high saturated fat content.
How to eat it
PHILADELPHIA WHIPPED CREAM CHEESE SPREAD is commonly used as a spread on bagels, toast, or crackers, and as an ingredient in recipes. A typical serving is 2 tablespoons. Due to its saturated fat and sodium content, mindful portion control is important.
Pair with whole-grain crackers or vegetables like celery sticks to add fiber and reduce the overall saturated fat per bite.
Use as a small dollop in savory dishes, such as a creamy element in scrambled eggs or a binder for vegetable patties, rather than a primary spread.
Consider mixing a small amount with plain Greek yogurt to create a lower-fat, higher-protein spread for sandwiches or wraps.
Measure out your portion (2 Tbsp) to avoid overconsumption, especially when using it as a spread on larger items like bagels.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains pasteurized milk and cream, making it unsuitable for individuals with dairy allergies or lactose intolerance. The ingredient list includes several gums such as carob bean gum, xanthan gum, and guar gum, which are used as thickeners and stabilizers. While generally recognized as safe, some individuals with sensitive digestive systems may experience mild gastrointestinal discomfort from these ingredients. Sorbic acid is included as a preservative. Overall, for most healthy individuals, the ingredients in PHILADELPHIA WHIPPED CREAM CHEESE SPREAD do not pose significant immediate health risks, but its ultra-processed nature and nutrient profile warrant consideration for regular consumption.
Is PHILADELPHIA WHIPPED CREAM CHEESE SPREAD healthy?
PHILADELPHIA WHIPPED CREAM CHEESE SPREAD scores 23/100 on FoodScore, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This is primarily due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and its high saturated fat content (13.59g per 100g). While it provides Vitamin A, it is not considered a nutrient-dense food for regular consumption.
How does PHILADELPHIA WHIPPED CREAM CHEESE SPREAD compare to other cream cheese brands?
Compared to a generic full-fat cream cheese, PHILADELPHIA WHIPPED CREAM CHEESE SPREAD has a similar nutritional profile in terms of fat and sodium, but with added stabilizers like modified food starch and various gums. Brands like Organic Valley cream cheese might offer a simpler ingredient list, though the core nutrient density of full-fat cream cheese remains similar across brands.
What is 'modified food starch' in this product?
Modified food starch is an ingredient used as a thickener and stabilizer in many processed foods, including PHILADELPHIA WHIPPED CREAM CHEESE SPREAD. It helps create the desired texture and prevents separation of ingredients. It is a common component in ultra-processed foods and contributes to the product's NOVA class 4 classification.
What is a reasonable portion size for PHILADELPHIA WHIPPED CREAM CHEESE SPREAD?
The recommended serving size for PHILADELPHIA WHIPPED CREAM CHEESE SPREAD is 2 tablespoons. Adhering to this portion helps manage your intake of saturated fat and sodium. For example, using a measured amount on a single bagel or a few crackers can help maintain a balanced diet.
Can I use this cream cheese spread in baking?
Yes, PHILADELPHIA WHIPPED CREAM CHEESE SPREAD can be used in baking, particularly in recipes where a lighter, airier texture is desired, such as frostings or no-bake cheesecakes. However, its whipped consistency and added stabilizers might behave differently than traditional block cream cheese in some recipes. Always consider the fat content and moisture level for best results.