365 By Wholefoods

Rated at 2 out of 5 green leaves, the 365 By Wholefoods Cream Cheese Spread falls short of the cleaner food options many health-conscious consumers seek. The product is not organic, and it does not use non-GMO ingredients, which are significant considerations for those aiming to avoid genetically modified organisms in their diets. Furthermore, the inclusion of Xanthan Gum, a common thickener and stabilizer, raises concerns due to its classification as a potentially harmful additive within our scoring criteria.

The cream cheese spread is made with pasteurized milk and cream, whey, cheese culture, and salt—ingredients that are standard for cream cheese products. However, it also contains guar gum and carob bean gum, which are additional thickeners and stabilizers. These ingredients are often used in food processing to improve texture and shelf life but may not align with the preferences of consumers seeking whole and unprocessed foods.

The product’s score reflects its position in a market that increasingly demands transparency and minimally processed items. While the cream cheese may fulfill the basic requirements of its category, its composition does not meet the standards set by our green leaf rating system for cleaner, more natural food products.

Customers who prioritize environmentally friendly and health-conscious eating will likely find this cream cheese spread lacking. With no organic certification and the presence of additives, it is evident that there are areas where the product could be improved to achieve a higher green leaf rating. For those seeking cleaner food options, it is essential to consider products that are not only free from potentially harmful additives but also produced with organic practices and non-GMO ingredients. The 365 By Wholefoods Cream Cheese Spread, as it stands, does not rise to the challenge of providing a cleaner, more healthful alternative in the cream cheese category.