What Is Earth Balance Butter? Here’s What We Know
What To Know
- Earth Balance Butter is a plant-based butter alternative made from a blend of vegetable oils, including palm oil, soybean oil, and canola oil.
- Unlike dairy butter, Earth Balance Butter is cholesterol-free, making it a healthier choice for those with high cholesterol levels or at risk of heart disease.
- Overall, Earth Balance Butter is a great choice for those looking for a plant-based, cholesterol-free butter alternative.
What Is Earth Balance Butter?
Earth Balance Butter is a plant-based butter alternative made from a blend of vegetable oils, including palm oil, soybean oil, and canola oil. It is designed to mimic the taste, texture, and functionality of traditional dairy butter.
Ingredients and Nutrition
Ingredients:
- Palm oil
- Soybean oil
- Canola oil
- Water
- Salt
- Natural flavors
- Beta-carotene (for color)
Nutrition:
Per 14-gram serving:
- Calories: 100
- Total fat: 11g
- Saturated fat: 5g
- Trans fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 60mg
- Dietary fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
Health Benefits
Heart Health:
Earth Balance Butter contains no trans fats and low levels of saturated fats compared to dairy butter. This can contribute to heart health by reducing the risk of heart disease.
Cholesterol-Free:
Unlike dairy butter, Earth Balance Butter is cholesterol-free, making it a healthier choice for those with high cholesterol levels or at risk of heart disease.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids:
Earth Balance Butter is fortified with omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for brain health and heart health.
Uses
Earth Balance Butter can be used in a variety of culinary applications, including:
- Spreading on bread or toast
- Baking and cooking
- Sautéing and frying
- As a topping on vegetables or potatoes
Comparison to Dairy Butter
| Feature | Earth Balance Butter | Dairy Butter |
| — | — | — |
| Ingredients | Vegetable oils | Animal fat |
| Cholesterol | 0mg | 31mg |
| Saturated fat | 5g | 7g |
| Taste | Similar to dairy butter | Richer, more buttery |
| Texture | Softer | Firmer |
| Melting point | Lower | Higher |
| Price | Typically more expensive | Typically less expensive |
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Plant-based and vegan
- Cholesterol-free
- Low in saturated fat
- Good source of omega-3 fatty acids
- Versatile in culinary applications
Cons:
- Higher in calories than dairy butter
- Contains palm oil
- May not have as rich a flavor as dairy butter
Sustainability and Environmental Impact
The use of palm oil in Earth Balance Butter has raised concerns about sustainability and deforestation. However, Earth Balance has committed to sourcing palm oil from sustainable sources and has received certification from the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO).
In a nutshell: A Versatile and Healthier Butter Alternative
Earth Balance Butter is a versatile and healthier alternative to traditional dairy butter. It offers a similar taste, texture, and functionality while providing heart-healthy benefits. While it contains palm oil, Earth Balance is committed to sustainable sourcing practices. Overall, Earth Balance Butter is a great choice for those looking for a plant-based, cholesterol-free butter alternative.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q: Is Earth Balance Butter gluten-free?
A: Yes, Earth Balance Butter is gluten-free.
Q: Is Earth Balance Butter safe for people with dairy allergies?
A: Yes, Earth Balance Butter is dairy-free and safe for people with dairy allergies.
Q: Can Earth Balance Butter be used for baking?
A: Yes, Earth Balance Butter can be used for baking as a 1:1 substitute for dairy butter.
Q: Is Earth Balance Butter a good source of protein?
A: No, Earth Balance Butter does not contain any protein.
Q: Is Earth Balance Butter suitable for vegetarians and vegans?
A: Yes, Earth Balance Butter is suitable for vegetarians and vegans as it is made from plant-based ingredients.