Fat Free Sour Cream
Monica Reinagel, MS, LD/N, CNS
Q. I see a lot of dairy products like sour cream and cream cheese available in reduced-fat, and even fat-free varieties.I don’t see how this could even be possible.What exactly are they replacing the fat with?
Answer. Reduced-fat dairy products are made with low-fat or skim milk instead of whole milk and cream. Often, they add some gelatin, cellulose gum, or milk solids to make low-fat dairy products thicker and “creamier.” I talked a little more about how food engineers (yes, there is such a profession!) fake the flavor and texture of fat in my episode on frozen yogurt. Personally, I think reduced-fat cream cheese and sour cream taste fine but usually find the fat-free versions unpalatable.
Sour Cream image courtesy of Shutterstock
About the Author
Monica Reinagel is a board-certified licensed nutritionist, author, and the creator of one of iTunes’ most highly ranked health and fitness podcasts. Her advice is regularly featured on the TODAY show, Dr. Oz, NPR, and in the nation’s leading newspapers, magazines, and websites. Do you have a nutrition question? Call the Nutrition Diva listener line at 443-961-6206. Your question could be featured on the show.