If you're watching your calorie intake and looking for a tasty spread for your bagels or crackers, you might want to consider light plain cream cheese. A 28 gram (1 package) serving of this product typically contains around 60 calories, making it a low-calorie option to satisfy your cravings without jeopardizing your diet.

In addition to being low in calories, light plain cream cheese also offers some health benefits. This product is a good source of protein, which can help fuel your muscles and keep you feeling full between meals. It also contains some essential vitamins and minerals, as we'll discuss in more detail below.

In this article, we'll explore some of the key nutritional facts about light plain cream cheese, including its macronutrient profile, vitamin and mineral content, as well as tips for storage and allergen information.

Calories per serving

As mentioned earlier, a 28 gram (1 package) serving of light plain cream cheese typically contains around 60 calories. This is significantly lower than regular cream cheese, which can contain up to 100 calories or more per serving, depending on the brand and variety. One reason why light cream cheese is lower in calories is because it contains less fat than regular cream cheese. However, this also means that it may be less creamy and flavorful, so you may want to add some seasonings or other ingredients to the spread to enhance its taste.

Serving size

As mentioned earlier, a typical serving size for light plain cream cheese is 28 grams (1 package). This amount is generally enough to cover two slices of bread, one bagel, or a handful of crackers, depending on the size and thickness of each item. It's important to remember that serving sizes can vary depending on the product and brand, so make sure to read the label carefully before consuming. You can also use a food scale or measuring cups to make sure that you're getting the right portion size for your needs.

Fat content

As mentioned earlier, light plain cream cheese contains less fat than regular cream cheese. Depending on the brand and variety, it may contain around 4-5 grams of fat per serving, with some options containing even less than that. Most of this fat comes from milk and cream, which are the main ingredients in cream cheese. However, some products may also contain added oils or other ingredients to enhance the texture and spreadability of the cream cheese.

Carbohydrate content

Light plain cream cheese typically contains very little carbohydrates, with only 1-2 grams per serving. This makes it a good option for people who are following a low-carb or ketogenic diet. However, if you're looking to add some variety and flavor to your cream cheese spread, you can try incorporating some fruits or vegetables such as cucumber, berries or red pepper strips to add a little bit of fiber and lightness to your snack.

Protein content

Light plain cream cheese can be a good source of protein, with around 2-3 grams per serving depending on the brand and variety. Protein is important for building and repairing muscles, and can also help keep you feeling full and satisfied between meals. If you're looking to boost your protein intake even further, you can try adding some nuts, seeds or hard boiled eggs to your cream cheese spread. These are all good sources of protein that can complement the flavor and texture of the cream cheese.

Vitamin content

Light plain cream cheese can be a good source of several essential vitamins, including vitamin A, vitamin D, and vitamin B12. Vitamin A is important for maintaining healthy skin and vision, while vitamin D helps our bodies absorb calcium and improve bone health. Vitamin B12 is essential for red blood cell formation and brain function, and is especially important for people following a vegetarian or vegan diet.

Mineral content

Light plain cream cheese can also be a good source of several essential minerals, including calcium, phosphorus and potassium. Calcium is important for bone health and muscle function, while phosphorus helps regulate fluid balance and energy metabolism. Potassium is important for maintaining healthy blood pressure levels and muscle function.

Ingredients

The ingredients in light plain cream cheese may vary depending on the brand and variety. However, most products will contain some combination of milk, cream, cheese culture, salt and stabilizers. Some products may also contain added flavors, condiments or vegetable ingredients to enhance the taste and texture of the cheese. If you have specific dietary restrictions or preferences, be sure to read the label carefully to make sure that the ingredients are suitable for your needs.

Allergen information

Light plain cream cheese typically contains milk and cream, which are common allergens. If you have a milk or dairy allergy, be sure to check the label carefully before consuming this product. Some products may also contain other allergens such as soy, tree nuts and wheat, so be sure to read the label and check with your healthcare provider before consuming this product if you have any food allergies or sensitivities.

Storage requirements

Light plain cream cheese should be stored in the refrigerator at all times. Once opened, it should be consumed within 7 to 10 days to ensure its freshness and quality. To prevent contamination, make sure that your hands and any utensils you use to handle the cream cheese are clean and dry. You may also want to use an airtight container or wrap to help protect the cheese from moisture and other contaminants.