Patrick Oconnell
Philadelphia cheese spread is a popular product made with milk and real cream, and it comes in a variety of flavors. It is versatile and can be used in both sweet and savory dishes. While it is a good source of calcium and protein, cheese typically contains a high amount of calories, saturated fat, and sodium. As a result, some people may be concerned about the health implications of consuming cheese spreads like Philadelphia.
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What You'll Learn
Philadelphia cheese spread's nutritional value
Philadelphia cheese spreads are made with milk and real cream, and have a distinct fresh and creamy taste. They are versatile and can be used in both sweet and savoury dishes. The spreads are available in a range of flavours and sizes.
The Original variety is made with pasteurized milk and has no added preservatives. Its ingredients list includes full-fat soft cheese, salt, a stabilizer (guar gum), and citric acid. The product is suitable for vegetarians.
The nutritional composition of Philadelphia cheese spreads varies, but they are generally a good source of calcium and protein. However, they also tend to be high in calories, saturated fat, and sodium. According to the USDA and DHHS 2010 report, cheese is the number one source of saturated fat and is one of the top sources of sodium and calories in the American diet. Therefore, while Philadelphia cheese spreads can be a tasty and versatile addition to meals, they should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Philadelphia cheese spreads may also contain added vitamin A for fortification. While vitamin A is essential, it is recommended that children and pregnant women limit their consumption of highly fortified foods to avoid potential health issues associated with excessive intake of certain forms of this vitamin.
Some concerns have been raised about the use of antibiotics and milk-boosting hormone injections (rBGH) in dairy production, which are not permitted in Europe due to public health and animal welfare concerns.
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Concerns about ingredients
Philadelphia cheese spread is made with pasteurized milk and cream, and contains a high level of saturated fat, sodium, and calories. While cheese can be a good source of calcium and protein, the spread's high saturated fat content is a concern, as consuming too much can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Numerous authoritative bodies, including the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2002 and the USDA and DHHS in 2010, recommend limiting saturated fat intake to 10% of calories. A 2012 review by the Cochrane Collaboration found that reducing or replacing saturated fat with other healthy fats lowered the risk of cardiovascular events by 14%. However, other reviews, such as those by Chowdhury in 2014 and Schwingshackl and Hoffmann in 2014, found no evidence of benefits from reducing saturated fat.
In addition to the high saturated fat content, there are concerns about the use of antibiotics and milk-boosting hormone injections (rBGH) in dairy production, which is common in the United States. About 20% of American dairy cows receive rBGH injections, which are not allowed in Europe due to public health and animal welfare concerns. The use of antibiotics can also contribute to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
The Philadelphia cheese spread also contains other ingredients such as salt, guar gum, natamycin (a natural mold inhibitor), cheese culture, and, in the whipped cream cheese spread variety, modified food starch, skim milk, vinegar, whey protein concentrate, dried chives, cider vinegar, and carob bean gum. While these ingredients may not pose significant health concerns, some individuals may have specific dietary restrictions or preferences to consider.
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Processing concerns
The processing concerns for Philadelphia cheese spread are relatively low. This is because the product has few artificial ingredients, and its ingredients are either whole foods or minimally processed.
The cheese spread contains natamycin, which is an additive used to retard spoilage. Natamycin is of lower concern in food. The spread also contains cheese culture, which has been found to have low levels of Persistent Organic Pollutant (POPs) contamination.
The spread also includes pasteurized milk and cream, which are minimally processed. Other ingredients such as salt, guar gum, and carob bean gum are also generally considered to be minimally processed.
However, it is important to note that the cheese-making process can involve the use of antibiotics and hormones, which may pose health and environmental concerns. For example, milk-boosting hormone injections (rBGH) are used in about 20% of American dairy cows, but these treatments are not allowed in Europe due to public health and animal welfare concerns.
Overall, while the Philadelphia cheese spread has relatively low processing concerns, it is important to consider the potential impact of the dairy industry's practices on the final product's healthfulness.
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Health risks of saturated fat
Saturated fats are typically found in animal-based foods such as beef, pork, poultry, eggs, and full-fat dairy products. They are also present in tropical oils like coconut and palm oil. These fats are usually solid at room temperature, earning them the nickname "solid fats".
Consuming excessive saturated fat can have adverse health effects. Firstly, it can cause issues with cholesterol levels. Specifically, saturated fat increases the level of low-density lipoprotein (LDL), or "bad" cholesterol, in your blood. High LDL cholesterol levels can lead to plaque formation in your arteries, increasing your risk of heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular complications.
The American Heart Association (AHA) has long recommended limiting saturated fat intake to less than 6% of total calories. For example, if your daily calorie intake is 2,000, no more than 120 calories should come from saturated fat. However, some recent studies have questioned the conclusive link between saturated fat and heart disease, calling for more research to support the AHA's recommendations.
It's important to note that not all saturated fats are equal. The source of the saturated fat in your diet matters. For instance, a diet high in saturated fats from fast food, fried products, and processed meats may have a different impact on your health compared to a diet rich in saturated fats from dairy, grass-fed meat, and coconut.
To maintain a healthy diet, it's recommended to focus on the overall dietary pattern rather than singling out specific "bad" foods. Eating more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and unprocessed foods is advised. Additionally, replacing saturated fats with unsaturated fats, such as canola, soybean, and olive oil, can help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.
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Alternatives to Philadelphia cheese spread
Philadelphia cream cheese spread is a popular product, with a range of flavours. However, it is high in saturated fat, calories, and sodium. If you are looking for a healthier option, there are several alternatives to Philadelphia cheese spread that you can try.
Reduced-Fat Cream Cheese
For a healthier option, you can opt for reduced-fat cream cheese. While it may not be as creamy and indulgent as the full-fat variety, it still provides a similar taste and texture with less saturated fat and calories.
Plant-Based Cream Cheese
Plant-based cream cheeses are becoming increasingly popular for those who follow a vegan diet or simply want a more environmentally friendly option. While Philadelphia offers a plant-based cream cheese, some reviewers find its texture difficult to spread and its flavour underwhelming. Other brands may offer better-tasting alternatives, so it may be worth exploring different options to find one that suits your taste preferences.
Ricotta Cheese
Ricotta cheese is a soft, spreadable cheese with a mild flavour. It is lower in fat and calories than regular cream cheese, making it a healthier alternative. Ricotta can be used as a spread or dip and can also be a great base for adding your own herbs and spices.
Yogurt Cheese
Yogurt cheese, also known as labneh, is a creamy and tangy spread made by straining yogurt to remove the whey, resulting in a thick and creamy consistency. It has a similar texture to cream cheese but with less fat and calories. You can easily make your own yogurt cheese at home by straining plain yogurt through a cheesecloth or coffee filter.
Avocado
Avocado may not be a traditional cheese spread, but it can serve a similar purpose. Avocados are high in healthy fats, fibre, and various vitamins and minerals. They have a creamy texture and a mild flavour that can be enhanced with the addition of herbs, spices, or citrus juice. Avocado makes a great spread on toast, crackers, or bagels and can be a nutritious alternative to cheese spreads.
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Frequently asked questions
Philadelphia cheese spread is made with milk and real cream, and it is a good source of calcium and protein. However, it also contains a high level of saturated fat, sodium, and calories.
The nutritional value of Philadelphia cheese spread will vary depending on the specific product. For example, the original variety contains pasteurized milk and cream, salt, guar gum, and natamycin, while the reduced-fat variety is also made with milk and cream but has a lower fat content.
There are some concerns about the high level of saturated fat in Philadelphia cheese spread. It is recommended to limit saturated fat intake to 10% of calories. In addition, antibiotics are often used in dairy production, which can contribute to antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
Yes, Philadelphia offers a reduced-fat cream cheese spread that may be a healthier option for those concerned about the saturated fat content.
