Trader Joes

Awarded a 2/5 green leaf rating, the Trader Joe’s Onion & Chive Cream Cheese Spread falls short in the realm of cleaner food options. This product is not organic and contains genetically modified ingredients, detracting from its potential healthfulness. Moreover, it includes Xanthan Gum, an additive that raises concerns within our scoring parameters.

The cream cheese spread begins with pasteurized milk and cream, to which dried onions and chives are added for flavor. Although these ingredients are fairly standard for a dairy spread, the product’s lack of organic certification means it may contain residues from conventional farming practices, which typically involve synthetic pesticides and fertilizers.

The inclusion of stabilizers such as Guar Gum, Locust Bean Gum, and Xanthan Gum is intended to enhance texture and shelf life. While these are common in processed foods, their presence in this spread is significant enough to warrant a deduction in our scoring system. Specifically, Xanthan Gum, despite being widely used, is singled out in our criteria as a potentially harmful additive.

Regarding GMOs, the absence of a non-GMO label implies the use of genetically modified ingredients. This is a critical factor for many consumers seeking cleaner food products, as GMOs are often associated with industrial agricultural practices that may not align with the values of sustainability and natural agriculture.

Trader Joe’s Onion & Chive Cream Cheese Spread, with its 2/5 green leaf rating, demonstrates room for improvement. By transitioning to organic ingredients, eliminating GMOs, and reconsidering the use of certain additives, the product could significantly increase its appeal to health-conscious consumers. To align with the growing demand for cleaner, simpler food products, these changes would be essential steps forward. The current formulation, while popular for its convenience and taste, does not meet the criteria for those prioritizing a cleaner diet.