What is the difference between butter and butter spread?
To understand the distinction, it is essential to first know what defines "real" butter. Under United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) regulations, a product must contain a minimum of 80% milkfat to be legally labeled and sold as butter. The remaining content is primarily water and milk solids. Traditional butter is made by churning cream and is solid when cold, which is why it can be difficult to spread directly from the refrigerator.
Butter spreads, like the ones offered by Land O Lakes, are a separate category of product entirely. They are created by blending traditional butter with different vegetable oils, such as canola or olive oil, to produce a softer, more pliable consistency. While these spreads contain real butter, they are not 100% butter and therefore have different nutritional and physical properties. Land O Lakes also makes other spreads, such as "Fresh Buttery Taste® Spread," which is a vegetable oil spread that contains no butter at all.
Ingredients: A closer look at Land O Lakes spreads
The ingredient list for Land O Lakes products can vary significantly depending on the specific type of spread. The following examples highlight some of the key differences:
Land O Lakes Butter with Canola Oil
This product is a simple blend designed to combine the classic taste of butter with the spreadable convenience of oil.
- Ingredients: Sweet cream, canola oil, salt.
- Purpose: The canola oil is added specifically to keep the product soft and spreadable, even when refrigerated.
Land O Lakes Light Butter with Canola Oil
This version is formulated to have fewer calories and less fat than regular butter. This is achieved by introducing more water and other ingredients into the blend.
- Ingredients: Water, butter (cream, salt), canola oil, buttermilk, food starch-modified, emulsifiers, preservatives, natural flavor, and coloring.
- Purpose: The added ingredients alter the texture and allow for a reduction in total fat and calories.
Land O Lakes Fresh Buttery Taste® Spread
This spread is made entirely from vegetable oils and contains no dairy butter. It is an alternative for those seeking a lower-saturated-fat option.
- Ingredients: Soybean oil, water, palm oil, palm kernel oil, buttermilk, salt, and various emulsifiers and flavorings.
- Purpose: This is designed to mimic the flavor of butter while using a different fat profile, specifically low in saturated fat.
Nutritional comparison: Butter vs. spreads
The composition of these products directly affects their nutritional value. Below is a comparison of typical nutritional facts for one tablespoon (14g) of each product based on available information.
| Feature | Regular Butter | Land O Lakes Butter w/ Canola Oil | Land O Lakes Fresh Buttery Taste® Spread |
|---|---|---|---|
| Calories | ~100 | ~100 | ~70 |
| Total Fat | ~11 g | ~11 g | ~8 g |
| Saturated Fat | ~7 g | ~4 g | ~2 g |
| Cholesterol | ~30 mg | ~15 mg | ~0 mg |
| Trans Fat | <0.5 g (natural) | 0 g | 0 g |
| Main Fat Source | Milkfat | Milkfat and Canola Oil | Soybean, Palm, and Palm Kernel Oils |
Health and dietary considerations
Saturated fat and heart health
Some buttery spreads, particularly those based on vegetable oils, offer less saturated fat than traditional butter. According to the American Heart Association, limiting saturated fat intake to no more than 6% of daily calories may help lower cholesterol levels. While research on saturated fat is complex and evolving, replacing it with unsaturated fats (found in many spreads) has been associated with a lower risk of heart disease. For example, the Land O Lakes Fresh Buttery Taste® Spread has 70% less saturated fat than butter.
Keto diet compatibility
For those on a ketogenic diet, butter is a staple due to its high fat and low carbohydrate content. Pure butter is an excellent choice for a keto diet, provided you practice portion control. While many Land O Lakes spreads might also fit within keto macros, they contain different oils and additives. Those following a strict keto plan may prefer pure butter or clarified butter (ghee) to avoid any potential carbohydrate sources or additives.
Ultra-processed status
When considering your health, it is important to be aware of the degree of food processing. Spreads with long ingredient lists containing emulsifiers, preservatives, and flavorings are often considered ultra-processed. While butter is a simple, whole food, many spreads are not. For individuals prioritizing whole foods, pure butter is the better option. For those focusing on specific macro ratios (like lower saturated fat), some spreads offer a viable alternative.
Cooking and baking with butter vs. spreads
Not all fats are created equal when it comes to culinary uses. The key differences in fat and water content between butter and spreads mean they perform differently in the kitchen.
- For baking: Traditional butter, with its high milkfat and low water content, is essential for baking recipes that depend on a specific fat-to-liquid ratio, such as flaky pie crusts or certain cookies. The additional water and different fats in spreads can lead to drier, tougher, or inconsistent results.
- For cooking and topping: Spreads are excellent for everyday use, such as spreading on toast, melting over vegetables, or simple sauteing. Their soft texture is perfect for instant application right out of the fridge. Land O Lakes' own website advises against baking with their spreadable butter, though it can be used in a pinch.
Conclusion: Making the right choice for your diet
In summary, the answer to "is Land O Lakes butter spread real butter?" is a clear no, but the full story is more nuanced. Land O Lakes offers a variety of butter blends and vegetable oil spreads that cater to different needs. For those seeking the simple, unadulterated flavor of pure dairy and using it for baking, traditional butter is the clear winner. For individuals prioritizing a product that is always soft and easy to spread or looking to reduce saturated fat and cholesterol, a Land O Lakes spread may be a suitable alternative. The best choice for your nutrition diet depends on your specific health goals, dietary restrictions, and how you plan to use the product in your cooking. As with any food, taking a moment to read the ingredient list and nutritional information is the best way to make an informed decision.
For more detailed information on comparing different buttery products, you can consult resources like the Center for Science in the Public Interest.
Note: Ingredient formulations can change, so it's always best to check the most current information on product packaging.
