Understanding the Label: Which Peanut Butter Brands Don't Use Xylitol?

According to the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, xylitol toxicity is a growing concern, as it has been added to an increasing number of human foods, including some peanut butters. This guide provides a critical look into which peanut butter brands don't use xylitol, empowering you to make informed, safe choices for your family and canine companions.

Quick Summary

A comprehensive guide on identifying xylitol in peanut butter and which brands are safe for consumption, particularly for households with dogs. Includes how to read ingredient labels and lists specific brands to both avoid and choose.

Key Points

• Xylitol is highly toxic to dogs: This low-calorie sweetener, common in some specialty peanut butters, can cause a dangerous drop in blood sugar and liver failure in dogs.

• Read labels for xylitol synonyms: The sweetener can be disguised as 'birch sugar', 'wood sugar', 'birch bark extract', or included under 'sugar alcohols'.

• Avoid specific specialty brands: High-protein or 'sugar-free' brands like Nuts 'N More, P28 Foods, Krush Nutrition, and Go Nuts, Co. are known to contain xylitol.

• Choose natural, single-ingredient options: The safest peanut butters contain only peanuts (and sometimes salt), like those from Crazy Richard's, Whole Foods 365, or Teddie.

• Check 'natural' varieties of mainstream brands: While regular Jif and Skippy are typically xylitol-free, their "natural" lines may contain other less-healthy additives like extra sugar.

• Consider other safe alternatives: For variety or allergy concerns, spreads like almond butter, sunflower seed butter, or even plain pumpkin puree are safe alternatives, but always check their ingredient lists as well.

The Hidden Danger of Xylitol for Pets

While harmless to humans, xylitol is a potent and potentially fatal toxin for dogs. A sugar alcohol used as a low-calorie sweetener, xylitol is rapidly absorbed into a dog's bloodstream, triggering a massive release of insulin from the pancreas. This causes a dramatic and dangerous drop in blood sugar levels, a condition known as hypoglycemia, which can occur within minutes of ingestion. In higher doses, xylitol can also cause acute liver failure. The risk is particularly high with peanut butter because it is a common treat for dogs, often used to hide medication or fill chew toys. Many pet owners are unaware that the product they have safely given their dog for years may have changed its formula or that specialty 'health' food spreads might contain this dangerous ingredient. Prevention starts with understanding what to look for and making conscious choices about the products you bring into your home.

How to Spot Xylitol on a Label

Identifying xylitol on a product label can be tricky, as it isn't always explicitly labeled as such. Manufacturers may use different terms or include it under a general category. The key is to be a vigilant and thorough label reader.

• Read the Ingredients List: Always check the full ingredient list, not just the nutrition facts panel. Xylitol is often listed under 'other ingredients', 'inactive ingredients', or 'supplement facts'.
• Recognize Alternative Names: Be aware of the many different names used for xylitol. These can include:
  • Birch sugar
  • Wood sugar
  • Birch bark extract
  • E967 (its European food additive code)
• Look for 'Sugar Alcohols': Check the nutrition facts panel for a line item for 'sugar alcohols'. If present, investigate the ingredients list further, as xylitol is one type of sugar alcohol.
• Beware of Claims: Phrases like "sugar-free," "naturally sweetened," or "low carb" on the front of the packaging should serve as a red flag, prompting a closer inspection of the ingredients list.
• Check Ingredient Order: Ingredients are listed by weight. If xylitol or a synonym appears high on the list, the product has a higher concentration, increasing the risk.

Peanut Butter Brands to Avoid

While xylitol is not widespread in mainstream peanut butter, it is prevalent in certain specialty and high-protein varieties. These brands should be avoided if you have a dog in the home. Some of the brands known to have used xylitol include:

• Nuts 'N More: This high-protein spread is frequently cited for containing xylitol.
• P28 Foods: Another protein-enhanced peanut butter product that is known to include xylitol.
• Krush Nutrition: Previously identified as a brand containing xylitol.
• Go Nuts, Co.: Another specialty brand to be avoided, though some sources suggest it may no longer be in business.
• No Cow (formerly D's Naturals): This brand has also been known to contain xylitol.

Safer, Xylitol-Free Peanut Butter Brands

For those seeking safer options, particularly for pets, the best approach is to choose natural, single-ingredient peanut butter. These products contain only peanuts, and sometimes salt, making them inherently xylitol-free and generally healthier. Brands with a straightforward ingredient list are the safest bet.

• Crazy Richard's: Famous for its "100% Peanuts" formulation, containing no added sweeteners or stabilizers.
• Whole Foods 365 Organic Creamy/Crunchy: The unsweetened and unsalted varieties are a simple and safe choice.
• Trader Joe's No Salt Organic Peanut Butter: A budget-friendly, single-ingredient option.
• Teddie All Natural: Many Teddie products contain just peanuts and maybe salt, making them a safe choice.
• Adams 100% Natural Peanut Butter: Known for its simple ingredient list of just peanuts and salt.
• Smucker's Natural: Offers a variety of natural peanut butter products that are xylitol-free.
• Justin's Classic Peanut Butter: A no-stir option made without xylitol.

Note: While major brands like Jif and Skippy typically do not use xylitol in their regular formulas, some of their natural varieties may still contain added sugars or other additives. It is always critical to read the label for specific product variations.

Comparison of Popular Peanut Butter Brands

Brand	Natural/Specialty	Ingredients to Watch For	Xylitol-Free?	Best for Pets?
Crazy Richard's	Natural	Peanuts only	Yes	Yes (100% safe)
Whole Foods 365 (Unsweetened)	Natural/Store Brand	Peanuts only	Yes	Yes (100% safe)
Nuts 'N More	Specialty/High Protein	Xylitol, added sugars	No	No (Toxic to dogs)
Jif Natural	Mainstream/Natural	Added sugar, vegetable oils	Yes	Acceptable (check label)
Skippy Natural	Mainstream/Natural	Added sugar, vegetable oils	Yes	Acceptable (check label)
Teddie All Natural	Natural	Peanuts, sometimes salt	Yes	Yes (Excellent choice)
P28 Foods	Specialty/High Protein	Xylitol, added sugars	No	No (Toxic to dogs)

Making the Healthiest Choice for Everyone

Beyond avoiding xylitol, opting for natural peanut butter with minimal ingredients is a wise choice for both humans and pets. Many commercial peanut butters contain added sugars, hydrogenated oils, and high sodium content, which offer little nutritional value and can contribute to health issues. A truly natural peanut butter provides healthy fats, protein, and fiber, and helps stabilize blood sugar levels. It’s a nutrient-dense food that, when consumed in moderation, can be part of a healthy diet. For optimal health, look for varieties that list only peanuts as an ingredient or perhaps peanuts and a small amount of salt.

What About Other Spreads?

For those with peanut allergies or simply looking for variety, there are other safe alternatives. For both human and dog consumption, consider the following options, but always check the label for any added ingredients.

• Almond Butter: A good source of healthy fats and protein, and generally safe for dogs, as long as it doesn't contain xylitol.
• Sunflower Seed Butter: An excellent alternative for those with nut allergies. Ensure it contains only sunflower seeds and no xylitol.
• Plain Pumpkin Puree: A healthy, low-fat, and fiber-rich alternative often used as a dog treat.
• Plain Greek Yogurt: Another healthy, low-fat alternative that can be used for treats.

Some nuts, such as macadamia nuts, are highly toxic to dogs and should never be given to them. When in doubt, stick to spreads with the simplest, most transparent ingredient list.

Conclusion: The Final Word on Label Literacy

Choosing the right peanut butter requires more than just picking a familiar brand off the shelf; it requires careful label reading, especially for pet owners. While the number of brands using xylitol is relatively small, the risk is severe and warrants a careful approach. The safest choice for both human and animal consumption is a natural peanut butter with a single ingredient: peanuts. By knowing which peanut butter brands don't use xylitol and understanding how to spot potential dangers on the label, you can confidently enjoy this healthy spread and keep your furry friends safe.

For more information on pet health and safety, consulting resources like the Preventive Vet website can be invaluable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is xylitol dangerous for dogs but safe for humans?

A dog's body absorbs xylitol quickly, leading to a massive and rapid release of insulin that causes a severe drop in blood sugar (hypoglycemia). Humans do not have this same insulin response to xylitol, so it is metabolized differently and is not toxic.

Can I give my dog any amount of peanut butter with xylitol?

No. Even very small amounts of xylitol can be toxic to a dog, depending on their weight and the concentration of the sweetener. It is best to avoid any products containing xylitol entirely to prevent accidental ingestion.

How can I tell if my peanut butter is high-risk for containing xylitol?

Brands that market themselves as 'sugar-free', 'naturally sweetened', 'low-carb', or high-protein are more likely to contain xylitol. Always inspect the ingredients list for xylitol or its synonyms.

Are there any other names for xylitol to watch out for?

Yes. Beyond 'xylitol' itself, look for 'birch sugar', 'wood sugar', 'birch bark extract', or check for a line item for 'sugar alcohols' on the nutrition facts panel.

Is all natural peanut butter safe for dogs?

Not all 'natural' peanut butters are guaranteed to be xylitol-free. Some may still contain other additives. The safest option is an all-natural product with only peanuts listed as an ingredient.

What should I do if my dog eats peanut butter containing xylitol?

If you suspect your dog has consumed xylitol, it is a veterinary emergency. Contact your veterinarian, an emergency clinic, or a pet poison helpline immediately. Do not wait for symptoms to appear.

What are some safe peanut butter brands to buy?

Safe brands include those with minimal ingredients like Crazy Richard's, Whole Foods 365 (Unsweetened), Teddie All Natural, and Trader Joe's No Salt Peanut Butter. Always check the label, even for these brands, to confirm the formula hasn't changed.