Discover the Best Peanut Butter Without Added Sugar: Top Picks for a Healthier Choice
By Anand Prasad | Updated: 2024-08-05
We’ve all been there – spoon in hand, ready to dip into that creamy jar of peanut butter for a mid-afternoon pick-me-up or as a sidekick to your beloved jelly sandwich when, bam, you notice sugar listed as one of the main ingredients. In the U.S., sugar seems to have stealthily infiltrated almost every packaged food, including our dear peanut butter. But here’s the kicker – consuming sugar on a daily basis isn’t exactly a ticket to the good-health express. Too much sugar can lead to a host of unwelcome guests like weight gain, diabetes, heart problems, and even mood swings. Plus, have you heard of the sugar crash? It's that nasty slump in energy that leaves you feeling like a deflated balloon at a birthday party gone wrong. It turns out, there’s also a huge crowd among us – including diabetics and those adhering to ketogenic or low-carb diets – who simply can't afford to indulge in sugary delights, peanut butter included. So, what’s a peanut butter lover to do? Fret not! We've scoured the shelves to unearth sugar-free peanut butter options that’ll cater to your nutty cravings without the sugary downside.
It's astounding to see how sugar has managed to find its way into so many peanut butter jars on our supermarket shelves here in the US. For instance, there's the classic "Crunchy Delight Peanut Butter," which has sugar as the second ingredient, accounting for a whopping 12% of the jar's contents. Then there's "Creamy Bliss Peanut Butter," which lists sugar as its third ingredient, making up around 7% of the product. Even the popular "Natural Nutty Spread" isn't entirely free from sugar, though it's further down the list, making up about 4% of the total product. It's curious to note just how prevalent sugar is, even in something as seemingly straightforward as peanut butter. For many of us trying to make healthier choices, finding a genuinely sugar-free option can feel like trying to locate a needle in a haystack. I remember being on a quest through multiple grocery aisles, scrutinizing labels only to realize that even the organic and "natural" options were not entirely sugar-free. It's eye-opening when you think you're making a wholesome choice and then discover these hidden sugars lurking in your otherwise healthy snack. So, next time you pick up a jar, taking a moment to check the label might save you from an unexpected sugar rush.
2. Crazy Richard's 100% All-Natural Creamy Peanut Butter
Ingredients:
Peanuts
If you're looking to cut sugar out of your diet, Crazy Richard's 100% All-Natural Creamy Peanut Butter could be an excellent pick for your pantry. This spread is a straightforward and honest product with peanuts as its sole ingredient. With no added sugar, salts, or stabilizers, you get to enjoy the pure taste of peanuts and none of the unnecessary extras. The natural sweetness of the peanuts effectively replaces the need for added sugars, making it a healthier option. It's also non-GMO, gluten-free, vegan, and certified kosher, ticking multiple boxes for those with specific dietary preferences. Just remember to stir well, as natural peanut butters like this one may separate.
3. 1.5 LB Powdered Peanut Butter
Ingredients:
Roasted Peanuts
If you're steering clear of sugar in your peanut butter, the 1.5 LB Powdered Peanut Butter from US Farms - NAKED PB is a stellar choice. This product stands out for its simplicity, containing only one ingredient: roasted peanuts. With no added sugar, salt, or preservatives, it's a clean option for those mindful of their intake. The lack of sugar substitutes means you get pure peanut flavor and nutrition, minus the unnecessary extras. Plus, at 9 grams of protein per serving, it's a great addition to both savory and sweet dishes, keeping your meals versatile and wholesome.
4. Smucker's Organic Natural Creamy Peanut Butter
Ingredients:
Organic Roasted Peanuts, Salt
Smucker's Organic Natural Creamy Peanut Butter stands out as a great choice for individuals looking to avoid sugar in their diet. This peanut butter contains only two ingredients: organic roasted peanuts and a touch of salt. By keeping the ingredients simple and natural, it not only steers clear of any added sugars but also ensures you're consuming the wholesome goodness of peanuts. The lack of sugar is particularly beneficial for maintaining stable blood sugar levels. With its creamy texture and rich flavor, it can make a delightful addition to your pantry without the worry of unhealthy additives.
5. 365 by Whole Foods Market, Organic Unsweetened Peanut Butter
Ingredients:
Organic Dry Roasted Peanuts, Organic Expeller Pressed Palm Oil, Sea Salt
If you're looking to avoid sugar in your peanut butter, "365 by Whole Foods Market, Organic Unsweetened Peanut Butter" is an excellent pick. With 90% peanuts and no added sugar, this product lets the natural flavor of peanuts shine through. Ingredients like organic expeller pressed palm oil and sea salt are used instead of sugar, making it a healthier option. However, be mindful that while it's not low in calories, it does offer premium ingredients without unnecessary sweeteners. This makes it a great option for those aiming to cut down on added sugars in their diet while still enjoying a delicious spread.
6. GOOD GOOD Creamy Peanut Butter
Ingredients:
Peanuts90%, Peanut Oil, Vegetable Fiber (Inulin), Fully Hydrogenated Rapeseed Oil, Sea Salt
If you're on the hunt for a peanut butter that skips out on sugar, GOOD GOOD Creamy Peanut Butter might be the perfect fit for you. With 91.2% roasted peanuts and zero added sugars, this spread lets you enjoy the rich, nutty flavor we all love without the health pitfalls of sugar. Instead of using sugar, this peanut butter includes vegetable fiber (inulin), which helps maintain its creamy texture without adding sweetness. While it does contain fully hydrogenated rapeseed oil, which isn't the healthiest choice, it still checks many boxes for those looking to avoid sugar. Enjoy it on toast, in smoothies, or paired with yogurt for an energy boost.
7. Barney Butter Almond Butter
Ingredients:
Blanched Roasted Almonds, Palm Fruit Oil
Barney Butter Almond Butter, Bare Smooth, offers a deliciously smooth and spreadable option for those looking to avoid sugar. Made with blanched roasted almonds and palm fruit oil, it eliminates the gritty texture often found in other nut butters. This almond butter appeals to a range of dietary preferences, being Non-GMO, Keto, Paleo, and Vegan-friendly. With no added sugar or salt, it's a wholesome choice for spreading on toast or adding to smoothies. Notably, palm fruit oil is used here as a stabilizer in place of sugar, keeping the consistency smooth and spreadable. However, it's not recommended for daily consumption due to the inclusion of palm fruit oil.
8. Cocomo Coconut Peanut Butter
Ingredients:
Organic Roasted Peanuts, Organic Coconut Syrup, Organic Coconut Cream, Organic Coconut Oil, Organic Palm Stearin, Organic Natural Flavor, Sea Salt, Organic Rosemary Extract
The Cocomo Coconut Peanut Butter is a delightful option for those searching for a sugar-free spread that doesn't compromise on taste. Laden with organic ingredients such as roasted peanuts, coconut syrup, and coconut cream, this peanut butter offers a unique flavor fusion that’s both indulgent and nutritious. The healthy fats from coconuts and peanuts provide an excellent energy boost, ideal for post-workout snacks or smoothies. With no added sugar, artificial ingredients, or gluten, this product stands out as a wholesome choice. The use of natural sweeteners like organic coconut syrup makes it a better alternative for health-conscious consumers avoiding sugar. Enjoy spreading this creamy goodness on your favorite recipes while staying mindful of your dietary needs.
9. JUSTIN'S Classic No Stir Gluten-Free Peanut Butter
Ingredients:
Dry Roasted Peanuts, Palm Oil
JUSTIN'S Classic No Stir Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Spread is a convenient and versatile option for those seeking a sugar-free spread. With just two ingredients – dry roasted peanuts and orangutan-friendly palm oil – its simplicity is its charm. This peanut butter can be enjoyed in various ways such as on crackers, in sandwiches, or paired with fresh fruits like apples or celery. While it does contain palm oil, which isn't the healthiest option, it avoids other common unhealthy ingredients, including sugar. Health-conscious consumers may appreciate the absence of sugars and the commitment to high-quality, responsibly sourced ingredients.
10. Nuts ‘N More Toffee Crunch Peanut Butter
Ingredients:
Peanuts, Whey Protein Isolate, Natural Sweetener (Xylitol), Peanut Oil, Palm Oil, Flax Meal, Natural Flavor, Sunflower Lecithin
Sweeteners used: Natural Sweetener (Xylitol)
The Nuts ‘N More Toffee Crunch Peanut Butter Spread is a delightful treat that promises a crunchy twist with its indulgent toffee butter crunch bits. Featuring whey protein isolate, it packs an impressive 9 grams of protein per serving, making it a heftier option compared to traditional peanut butter. For those wanting to avoid sugar, the product uses xylitol as a sweetener, giving you sweetness without the pitfalls of refined sugar. However, it's worth noting that this spread contains palm oil, which isn't the healthiest ingredient. While it's a delicious option with added protein and flax for omega-3’s, moderation is key given the presence of palm oil.
Other Ingredients to Watch Out For in Peanut Butter
Aside from sugar, which is often highlighted as a concern in peanut butter, there are a few other ingredients that commonly make their way into the mix. Let’s talk about them:
- Palm Oil: Often used to achieve that creamy texture we all love, palm oil appears quite frequently, sometimes as high up as the second ingredient listed. While palm oil does help with the consistency and spreadability, it's high in saturated fats, which isn’t ideal if you're aiming to maintain a balanced diet. Plus, there are environmental considerations when it comes to palm oil production. As an alternative, some brands use healthier oils like flaxseed or peanut oil, which keep the nuttiness intact while bypassing some of the less favorable effects.
- Cane Sugar and Coconut Sugars: Usually added to enhance sweetness and counteract the natural bitterness of peanuts, these sugars appear in various forms and are typically listed among the first few ingredients. Unfortunately, added sugars can contribute to the usual suspects—weight gain, blood sugar spikes, and perhaps an extra trip to the dentist. If you’ve got a sweet tooth but want to avoid added sugars, look for products sweetened with natural alternatives like stevia or fruits. With these insights, you'd be better equipped to make mindful choices and maybe even find a new favorite brand that aligns with your health goals.
Similarly, consider brands that prioritize minimal and wholesome ingredients—you might be surprised at how delicious all-natural peanut butter can be!
Disclaimer:
At Ingrito, we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information about product ingredients. However, we recommend that you double-check the ingredient lists and details directly with the product manufacturer or seller before making a purchase, as formulations can change over time. If you have specific health concerns or dietary needs, we encourage you to consult with a healthcare professional before using any product.
By using our site, you acknowledge that Ingrito provides information to help you make informed choices, but the final decision and verification are up to you.