Understanding alternatives to peanut butter

Understanding alternatives to peanut butter


Cookie, almond, pumpkin — all great flavors, and now, different types of butter.

Over the past few years, nut and seed butters have grown in popularity, giving consumers an alternative to the almighty peanut butter. This is especially good for parents of children who have peanut allergies. Research shows at least 2 percent of American children are allergic to peanuts, and many school districts have banned peanut butter from lunches and treats given in school.

The wider range of available butters helps kids, and adults, with allergies and appeals to anyone who wants a twist on the traditional peanut butter and jelly sandwich. Alternative butters, especially those derived from seeds and nuts, have similar nutritional value to peanut butter and can be good sources of healthy fats, protein and fiber.

If you’re looking to try an alternative butter, here are five to consider.

Almond butter has more nutritional value than peanut butter, with higher amounts of vitamins and heart-healthy fats. Sunflower seed butter is a good alternative for those who are allergic to nuts. It is full of magnesium, which can help balance energy and stress levels. Cashew butter is naturally sweet, which makes it high in carbohydrates, but it is full of copper, which can strengthen the immune system. Chickpea butter is similar in texture and flavor to peanut butter, making it a good alternative for PB and J sandwiches. Cookie butter has no nutritional value, but it’s a popular alternative for a luxurious treat.

The butters are not found at all grocery stories, but keep looking — they are worth taking the time to find.

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