Philadelphia

Light Philadelphia

Barcode 7622201693954

Scanned 141 times by Nomi users

Yes — Light Philadelphia is ultra-processed.

Not a great choice for everyday.

This product is classified as ultra-processed because it contains the stabilisers locust bean gum and carrageenan, as well as citric acid, which are identified here as UPF additives. These industrial additives contribute to the product’s formulation beyond the basic soft cheese and salt.

Ingredients

2 ultra-processed markers

OK

medium fat soft cheese

A soft, creamy cheese with moderate fat content, typically used as a spread or in dishes. Examples include soft cheeses like soft cheddar, brie, or camembert variants with medium fat levels.
OK

salt

Common mineral compound (sodium chloride) used as a seasoning and preservative across cuisines.
UPF

stabilisers (locust bean gum, carrageenan)

A combination of food additives used as stabilizers and thickening agents in processed foods. Locust bean gum (carob bean gum) and carrageenan help improve texture and prevent separation in dairy, sauces, and ready-to-use products.
UPF

citric acid

A sour-tasting organic acid used as an acidulant and preservative in foods. Commonly added in small amounts to adjust acidity.

Healthier alternatives

Reviewed by Nomi

Similar products that aren't ultra-processed — swap and keep the flavour.

Lighter Creamy Soft Cheese

Marks & Spencer, M&S

View product →

Swap it for something less processed

See all Dairy, Eggs & Yoghurt →

Other dairy, eggs & yoghurt Nomi has checked — these ones aren't ultra-processed.

Common questions about Light Philadelphia

Is Light Philadelphia ultra-processed?

Yes — Light Philadelphia by Philadelphia is ultra-processed, so it counts as a UPF (ultra-processed food). This product is classified as ultra-processed because it contains the stabilisers locust bean gum and carrageenan, as well as citric acid, which are identified here as UPF additives. These industrial additives contribute to the product’s formulation beyond the basic soft cheese and salt.

Which ingredients in Light Philadelphia are ultra-processed?

Nomi flags 2 ingredients in Light Philadelphia as ultra-processed markers: stabilisers (locust bean gum, carrageenan), citric acid. See the full ingredient breakdown above for what each one is.

What are healthier alternatives to Light Philadelphia?

Nomi has reviewed similar products that are not ultra-processed, including Lighter soft cheese by By Sainsbury's, Lighter Creamy Soft Cheese by Marks & Spencer, M&S. See the healthier alternatives above for details.

What does "ultra-processed" (UPF) mean?

Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) are industrial formulations made with ingredients and additives you wouldn't find in a home kitchen — such as emulsifiers, artificial flavourings, colourings and modified starches. The classification is based on the NOVA system used by researchers and dietitians worldwide.

How can I check whether other foods are ultra-processed?

Scan any barcode — or photograph the ingredients label — with the free Nomi app for iOS and Android. You'll get an instant ultra-processed verdict with every ingredient explained in plain English.

Product information comes from public databases and Nomi's own analysis, and may contain errors. Always check the packaging. Ultra-processed classification is based on the NOVA food processing system.