Understanding the Shift to Plant-Based
Nutella, a globally recognized hazelnut cocoa spread, has long been a staple in many households. However, with growing consumer demand for vegan and plant-based options, Ferrero recently introduced Nutella Plant-Based. This move aimed to make the classic taste accessible to a wider audience, including vegans and those with lactose intolerance. Unlike the original, which contains skimmed milk powder, the new formula replaces dairy with a combination of chickpeas and rice syrup powder to achieve a similar creamy texture. While the omission of dairy is a significant change, the question remains whether this reformulation translates to a genuinely healthier product or merely a vegan-friendly one.
A Closer Look at the Nutritional Comparison
When comparing the original Nutella with the new plant-based version, it's crucial to look beyond just the presence of dairy. A nutritional breakdown reveals some key differences, though the overall profiles are surprisingly similar. Both products share the same fundamental base: a high content of sugar and palm oil. In fact, the primary ingredients in both spreads are sugar and fat, not hazelnuts as many might assume. The plant-based version, while having less sugar, has slightly more fat, particularly saturated fat. Both products are also classified as ultra-processed foods (UPFs), which has been linked to potential negative health outcomes when consumed frequently.
Nutritional Comparison: Nutella vs. Nutella Plant-Based (per 100g)
| Nutrient | Original Nutella | Nutella Plant-Based |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 539 kcal | 534 kcal |
| Fat | 30.9 g | 31.8 g |
| Saturated Fat | 10.6 g | 11 g |
| Carbohydrates | ~52.1 g | ~48 g |
| Sugar | 56.3 g | 45.4 g |
| Protein | 6.3 g | 6.8 g |
The Role of Key Ingredients
Sugar Content
One of the most notable differences is the sugar content. The plant-based Nutella has a lower sugar count, which is a positive change for those monitoring their sugar intake. However, it is still an incredibly high-sugar product. The American Heart Association recommends that women and children consume no more than 6 teaspoons of added sugar per day, and a single serving of even the plant-based version can quickly push someone close to or over this limit.
Fats and Palm Oil
Both the original and plant-based Nutella rely heavily on palm oil for their creamy texture and spreadability. Palm oil is high in saturated fat and its production is associated with environmental and ethical concerns, including deforestation and habitat destruction. While Nutella uses RSPO-certified palm oil, ethical questions remain for many consumers. For those seeking truly healthier options, palm oil-free spreads are preferable.
The Dairy Replacements
To mimic the texture and taste of milk powder, the plant-based formula uses chickpeas and rice syrup powder. While chickpeas provide a slight protein boost, rice syrup has a high glycemic index, which can cause rapid spikes in blood sugar. This negates some of the potential benefits of the lower overall sugar content, especially for individuals concerned with blood sugar regulation.
The Verdict: Healthier, but Not a Health Food
Is plant-based Nutella healthier? In short, it is marginally healthier in some respects, but it is not a health food and should be consumed in moderation as a treat. The primary benefit is the reduction in sugar. However, it still contains a high amount of fat and calories and is considered an ultra-processed food. For those strictly avoiding dairy, it provides a convenient alternative. But for those seeking a genuinely nutritious chocolate hazelnut spread, better options exist.
Healthier Alternatives to Nutella Plant-Based
For a truly healthy option, consider these alternatives:
- Homemade Spread: Blend roasted hazelnuts, cocoa powder, and a natural sweetener like maple syrup or dates. This gives you complete control over the ingredients and nutritional content.
- Nutiva Hazelnut Spread: This organic, vegan spread uses sustainable palm oil and includes flaxseed and chia seed oil for added omega-3 fatty acids, plus 40% less sugar than the leading brand.
- Other Store-Bought Brands: Look for spreads that list hazelnuts as the primary ingredient and avoid palm oil and excessive sugar. Justin's or other natural food brands offer options that are a better nutritional choice.
- Pure Nut Butter with Cocoa: Mix a tablespoon of 100% hazelnut or almond butter with a sprinkle of cocoa powder and a dash of sweetener for a quick, wholesome chocolate spread.
Conclusion: Make an Informed Choice
The introduction of plant-based Nutella is a welcome development for those with dietary restrictions. However, it's a mistake to perceive it as a healthy food simply because it lacks dairy. The core issues of high sugar, fat, and ultra-processing remain. As with any indulgent treat, moderation is key. Consumers seeking a genuinely healthier alternative, with a more balanced nutritional profile and fewer processed ingredients, should explore homemade recipes or other natural, plant-based spreads on the market. For more information on healthier alternatives, you can consult articles like this one from Healthline detailing the nutrition of Nutella.
