Peanut butter is one of the top healthy spreads recommended by the Nutrition Center. But with so many options on shelves, how do you select a truly nutritious one? As nutrition experts, we've analyzed ingredients and tested products to guide you.
A premium peanut butter lists just one ingredient: peanuts. Budget options, including many 'extra crunchy' or nut-chunk varieties, often pack in palm fats and sugars. Skip hype around brands, trendy packaging, or even 'organic' labels—these don't reflect nutritional quality.
Read also: ‘Why it is better to eat peanut butter than chocolate spread‘
If a product includes palm fat, opt for varieties using unhydrogenated palm fat to minimize health risks.
It's easier than you think. Blend 500g fresh unsalted peanuts, 3 tablespoons coconut oil (at room temperature), and a pinch of Celtic sea salt in a high-powered food processor. Run on high speed until it reaches your preferred consistency. For a shortcut, use plain salted roasted peanuts—just confirm no additives.
This recipe is a game-changer—search 'VPRO make your own peanut butter' on Google for a step-by-step demo.
