Understanding the 'Natural' Label
Many consumers gravitate toward products labeled 'natural' assuming they are always the healthier choice. However, the term 'natural' on a food label is not regulated in the same way as 'organic'. With Skippy, the primary distinction between its regular and 'Natural' varieties lies in the ingredients used for stabilization and sweetness, not a complete overhaul of the product. Skippy's 'natural' designation refers to the specific recipe it uses, which replaces hydrogenated vegetable oils with palm oil to prevent separation. While this eliminates trans fats, which were a concern in older formulations using partially hydrogenated oils, it does not necessarily make the product significantly healthier in all respects.
The Role of Added Oils and Sugar
Regular Skippy peanut butter lists hydrogenated vegetable oil (including cottonseed, soybean, and rapeseed) on its ingredient list, along with sugar and salt. This processing is what gives it a no-stir, smooth consistency that many people are used to. In contrast, Skippy Natural uses palm oil as its stabilizer, which is why it also doesn't require stirring, unlike some other brands of natural peanut butter that contain only peanuts and salt. Nutritionally, the calorie, fat, and protein counts are remarkably similar between the two products, suggesting that the ingredient change doesn't dramatically alter the overall macronutrient profile. However, the health impact of the different oils is a key point of consideration. Palm oil, while not containing trans fats, is high in saturated fat. For health-conscious consumers, especially those monitoring saturated fat intake, this distinction is important. Some truly natural peanut butter brands contain only peanuts and salt, requiring stirring but offering a cleaner label.
Comparison Table: Skippy Regular vs. Skippy Natural (per 2 tbsp serving)
| Feature | Skippy Regular | Skippy Natural |
|---|---|---|
| Ingredients | Roasted Peanuts, Sugar, Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil (Cottonseed, Soybean, Rapeseed), Salt | Roasted Peanuts, Sugar, Palm Oil, Salt |
| Key Stabilizer | Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil | Palm Oil |
| Trans Fats | 0g per serving | 0g per serving |
| Calories | ~190 | ~190 |
| Total Fat | ~16g | ~16g |
| Saturated Fat | ~3g | ~3.5g |
| Added Sugar | Present (amount varies by specific product) | Present (amount varies by specific product) |
| Consistency | No-stir, creamy | No-stir, creamy |
Factors for Consideration When Choosing
When evaluating which product is 'healthier,' it's crucial to look beyond the 'natural' label and consider individual dietary goals and the type of additives used. While neither Skippy product is fundamentally different in terms of core macronutrients, the specific stabilizing oils and added sugar levels are key differentiators. For those focused on avoiding hydrogenated oils, the 'Natural' variety is the clear choice. However, for consumers concerned about saturated fat, the palm oil in Skippy Natural is a factor to consider. It is worth noting that some fully hydrogenated oils no longer contain trans fats, as per FDA regulations. True, minimalist 'natural' peanut butters with just peanuts and salt offer the cleanest ingredient profile, but come with the inconvenience of needing to be stirred.
How to Find a Truly Healthier Peanut Butter
For those seeking the absolute healthiest option, the best approach is to read the ingredient list carefully. A truly natural peanut butter will often list only one or two ingredients: peanuts, and sometimes salt. These products typically require stirring because they lack the added stabilizers to prevent oil separation. Brands like Adams 100% Natural or freshly ground peanut butter from a store are excellent examples. While these versions require a bit more effort to prepare, they offer the purest peanut flavor and avoid any added oils or sugars.
Conclusion: Which Skippy is Healthier?
So, is Skippy Natural peanut butter healthier than regular? The answer is nuanced. On a nutritional level, they are very similar in terms of calories, fat, and protein. The primary difference lies in the ingredients used for stabilization: Skippy Natural uses palm oil, while Regular Skippy uses fully hydrogenated vegetable oils. For consumers wanting to avoid hydrogenated oils, the Natural version is preferable. However, both contain added sugar and salt. The term 'natural' can be misleading, and for the purest, cleanest peanut butter, consumers should look for a product with only peanuts and salt on the ingredient list, which often requires stirring. Ultimately, the 'healthier' choice depends on what specific additives a consumer is trying to avoid.
For more information on the processing of conventional peanut butter, you can refer to the National Peanut Board's article on the subject.
