Trader Joe’s Vegan Cream Cheese Alternative
Why It Scored This Way
Weak nutritional value, significant processing, or both make this product less supportive of a health-focused diet.
- Added Sugar
- Saturated Fat
- Protein
- Fiber
Verdict
Vegan Cream Cheese Alternative is a spreadable plant-based dairy substitute used for topping breads and crackers. Its main strength is a clean flavor profile without added sweetness, while its main tradeoff is a high concentration of saturated fat. Overall, it functions as a flavor-enhancing condiment rather than a source of sustenance.
How to Use This
Best kept to limited use within a balanced diet, in controlled portions and not as a routine choice. Pair it with sliced cucumbers and tomato on a toasted whole-grain bagel.
Nutrition Overview
The nutrition panel shows a profile dominated by saturated fat with no meaningful protein or fiber. This results in high calorie density without providing significant micronutrients or satiety.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 90 | Per serving |
| Total Fat | 9g | 12% |
| Saturated Fat | 8g | 40% |
| Trans Fat | 0g | — |
| Sodium | 160mg | 7% |
| Total Carbs | 4g | 1% |
| Dietary Fiber | 0g | 0% |
| Total Sugars | 0g | — |
| Added Sugars | 0g | 0% |
| Protein | 0g | — |
Ingredient Analysis
The product is formulated from coconut oil and modified potato starch, using chickpea protein for structure. Industrial gums, acidity regulators, and natural flavors are added to replicate the creamy texture and tangy taste of traditional cream cheese.
Ingredients
WATER, COCONUT OIL, MODIFIED POTATO STARCH, CHICKPEA PROTEIN, SUGAR, SALT, NATURAL FLAVORS, SODIUM CITRATE, DEACTIVATED YEAST, LACTIC ACID, CITRIC ACID, YEAST EXTRACT, GUAR GUM, XANTHAN GUM, NISIN.
