Does Just Like Cream Cheese contain dairy or gluten?

No, Just Like Cream Cheese is free from both dairy and gluten. It is a safe option for those with lactose intolerance or celiac disease.

Is Just Like Cream Cheese good for weight loss?

It is not specifically designed for weight loss as it is calorie-dense due to the coconut oil content. However, it can be included in a calorie-controlled diet if portion sizes are managed carefully.

Where can I buy Just Like Cream Cheese?

Just Like Cream Cheese is widely available at major retailers such as Whole Foods, Sprouts, and Target, as well as online through Amazon and the manufacturer's website.

Is Just Like Cream Cheese safe for kids?

Yes, it is generally safe for kids. It contains no caffeine or major allergens (assuming no coconut allergy), and the added Vitamin B12 can be beneficial for their development.

Is Just Like Cream Cheese Vegan?

Yes, Just Like Cream Cheese is vegan. This plant-based spread relies on a blend of oils, starches, and legume proteins to replicate the creamy texture and tang of traditional dairy cream cheese without using any animal products. It is a safe and delicious option for anyone following a strict vegan diet.

The Ingredient Breakdown

As a food scientist, I always look beyond the marketing claims to see what is actually in the package. Just Like Cream Cheese achieves its texture primarily through Coconut Oil and Potato Starch. The coconut oil provides the rich mouthfeel and fat content usually supplied by heavy cream, while the potato starch acts as a thickening agent to create that dense, spreadable consistency.

For structure and fiber, the formula uses Bamboo Fibers and Food Starch-Modified. These plant-derived fibers help stabilize the emulsion, preventing the oil and water from separating, which is a common challenge in vegan cheese making. To mimic the savory, tangy profile of cultured dairy, the product uses Lactic Acid. While lactic acid can sometimes be derived from dairy sources, in this specific product, it is synthesized from plant fermentation, making it fully vegan.

Finally, the protein comes from Lentil Protein, which adds nutritional value and aids in the creamy structure. The color is derived from Beta-Carotene (a plant pigment), and the flavor is listed as coming from vegan sources. There are no red flags in this ingredient list; every component is derived from plants or synthetic processes that do not involve animal exploitation.

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional standpoint, Just Like Cream Cheese is designed to be a treat rather than a health food staple, though it does offer some benefits. Because the base is Coconut Oil, it is relatively high in saturated fat compared to nut-based alternatives. However, it is also free from cholesterol.

The calorie count is generally comparable to regular dairy cream cheese, sitting around 90 calories per tablespoon. It contains a small amount of added sugar in the form of Dextrose, which provides a slight sweetness to balance the acidity. It is also fortified with Vitamin B12, a crucial nutrient that is often lacking in vegan diets, making this a functional way to boost your intake. If you are watching your sodium intake, be mindful that it contains Sea Salt, but the levels are standard for a savory spread.