Philadelphia

Awarded 2 out of 5 green leaves, the Philadelphia Whipped Chive Cream Cheese falls short in the realm of clean eating. This product is not organic, and it fails to utilize non-GMO ingredients, both of which are significant factors in achieving a higher green leaf rating on our website. The inclusion of additives like Xanthan Gum and Potassium Sorbate further detracts from its overall score, as these substances are considered potentially harmful by our standards.

The cream cheese comprises modified milk ingredients, water, salt, vinegar, dried chives, bacterial culture, lactic acid, carob bean gum, calcium propionate, and the aforementioned additives. While some of these components, such as bacterial culture and lactic acid, are common in fermented dairy products, others raise concerns. For instance, carob bean gum serves as a thickener, and while it is generally recognized as safe, it may not align with those seeking the cleanest food options. Similarly, the preservatives Potassium Sorbate and Calcium Propionate are included to extend shelf life, but their presence is often unwelcome in products that strive for a ‘clean label.’

The product’s non-organic status means it may have been produced with conventional agricultural practices that often rely on synthetic pesticides and fertilizers. The lack of transparency regarding GMO ingredients suggests that genetically modified organisms may be part of its supply chain, which is a point of contention for many consumers prioritizing natural and unmodified foods.

This cream cheese has room for improvement. Replacing additives with natural alternatives, committing to non-GMO ingredients, and transitioning to an organic recipe could help this product earn a better rating. As it stands, the Philadelphia Whipped Chive Cream Cheese holds a place in the market for those who might not prioritize a clean label, but it does not meet the standards set by our website for cleaner food options.