1 serving (28 grams) contains 56 calories, 2.2 grams of protein, 4.3 grams of fat, and 2.3 grams of carbohydrates.
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Nutrition Information
Calories |
482.4 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 36.7 g | 47% | |
| Saturated Fat | 21.8 g | 109% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.6 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 129.6 mg | 43% | |
| Sodium | 861.6 mg | 37% | |
| Total Carbohydrates | 19.5 g | 7% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 0 g | 0% | |
| Sugars | 14.0 g | ||
| protein | 18.8 g | 37% | |
| Vitamin D | 28.8 mcg | 144% | |
| Calcium | 355.2 mg | 27% | |
| Iron | 0.4 mg | 2% | |
| Potassium | 592.8 mg | 12% | |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Food Attributes
Source of Calories
About Light cream cheese
Light cream cheese is a lower-fat variation of traditional cream cheese, commonly used as a spread, topping, or ingredient in both savory and sweet dishes. Originating from the United States in the late 19th century, cream cheese became popular for its creamy texture and versatility in cuisines worldwide. The 'light' version typically has reduced fat and calories compared to the regular variety, making it a preferred alternative for those watching their fat intake. A 28g (1 oz) serving of light cream cheese typically contains 2.5g of fat, 35 calories, 4g of protein, and is a moderate source of calcium. It is also lower in cholesterol compared to its full-fat counterpart, while providing a similar creamy texture and flavor profile.
Health Benefits
- Good source of protein (~4g per serving), which supports muscle repair and growth.
- Contains calcium (~30mg per serving), important for maintaining strong bones and teeth.
- Lower in fat and calories than regular cream cheese, making it suitable for calorie-conscious individuals.
Dietary Considerations
Selection and Storage
Store light cream cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator at or below 40°F. Use within 7-10 days of opening for maximum freshness and quality.
Common Questions About Light cream cheese Nutrition
Is light cream cheese high in protein?
Light cream cheese contains a moderate amount of protein, typically around 2 grams per 1-ounce serving. While it’s not a high-protein food, it can contribute to your daily protein intake when paired with other options.
Can I eat light cream cheese on a keto diet?
Yes, light cream cheese can be included on a keto diet as it’s relatively low in carbohydrates, offering about 1-2 grams of carbs per serving. However, the reduced fat content in light cream cheese may not align as well with keto's high-fat requirements compared to regular cream cheese.
What are the health benefits of light cream cheese, and are there any concerns?
Light cream cheese is lower in fat and calories compared to regular cream cheese, making it a lighter option for individuals managing weight or calorie intake. However, it is still high in saturated fat, with around 3-4 grams per 1-ounce serving, so moderation is key for heart health.
What is the recommended serving size for light cream cheese?
A standard serving size for light cream cheese is 1 ounce or roughly 2 tablespoons, which provides about 70 calories, 5-6 grams of fat, and 2 grams of protein. Adjust portions based on your nutritional needs and the meal's overall composition.
How does light cream cheese compare to regular cream cheese?
Light cream cheese has fewer calories and fat than regular cream cheese, with around 70 calories and 5-6 grams of fat per serving compared to 100 calories and 10 grams of fat in regular cream cheese. While lighter, it may have a slightly tangier taste due to differences in fat content.
Data Sources & Scientific References
Our nutrition data comes from trusted, authoritative sources to ensure accuracy and reliability. Below are specific scientific references and authoritative sources for this food item.
- USDA FoodData - Light cream cheese DataU.S. Department of AgricultureOfficial nutrition data for this specific food item from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's comprehensive food database.
Additional Authoritative Sources:
Daily value percentages based on FDA guidelines. Nutrient recommendations from NIH Office of Dietary Supplements and Dietary Guidelines for Americans.
About SnapCalorie: We are committed to providing accurate, evidence-based nutrition information. Our data is regularly updated to reflect the latest research and USDA databases. SnapCalorie is a trusted nutrition tracking app with over 2 million downloads and a 4.8/5 star rating.
