Tag: Irish butter

In 2019, Kerrygold became the first Irish food brand to reach €1 billion in annual retail sales, solidifying its place as the most famous brand of pure Irish butter. However, while Kerrygold is a globally recognized powerhouse, it is certainly not the only producer of authentic Irish butter, with numerous other brands offering equally high-quality, flavorful dairy products.

According to Kerrygold's official website, their traditional butter products contain no artificial additives. This is a key reason why many consumers, particularly those in the health-conscious market, are drawn to the brand and wonder: Does Kerry Gold butter have additives?

Irish butter often boasts a higher butterfat content and comes from grass-fed cows, unlike standard American butter. Many believe this makes it healthier, but does this mean Irish butter is better for cholesterol? Its distinct nutritional profile offers some key differences, though total saturated fat content remains a major consideration for heart health.

A study in *Medical News Today* suggested that replacing butter with plant-based oils like olive oil could reduce the risk of premature death. This finding prompts a closer look at a common culinary question: is Irish butter healthier than olive oil?

The average American butter is required to have a minimum of 80% butterfat, while its European counterparts, including Irish butter, must contain at least 82%. This seemingly small difference in fat content has a major impact on the flavor, texture, and overall quality of Irish butter, making it a favorite among chefs and home cooks alike.

According to a 2024 review by Wirecutter, Kerrygold was named the world's “butteriest butter," a testament to the quality associated with Irish products. This begs the question, what is the best Irish butter, and how do popular options like Kerrygold stack up against competitors such as Glenstal and Cuinneog? This guide will break down the brands, their unique qualities, and help you find the perfect pat for your pantry.

Over 99% of Irish dairy farms adhere to the Sustainable Dairy Assurance Scheme, which is independently verified by Bord Bia. This system ensures a predominantly grass-based diet for cows, confirming that nearly all branded Irish butter, including popular exports, is indeed grass-fed.

Kerrygold butter contains at least 82% butterfat, a higher percentage than the 80% minimum required for American butter, resulting in a noticeably richer and creamier texture. This, along with a unique grass-fed diet for its Irish cows, contributes to its special qualities that set it apart in the dairy aisle.

According to Truly Grass Fed, their cows graze on lush Irish pastures for an average of 250 days per year. This raises the question: is Truly butter really grass-fed, and how does its verification stack up?

Kerigold butter, produced from grass-fed cows, contains more beneficial nutrients, like omega-3 fatty acids and conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), compared to conventional butter. This enhanced nutritional profile is due to the cows' diet.