The One Peanut Butter Brand Dietitians Say To Skip
Not all peanut butter is created equal. While many consider it a healthy staple, dietitians are sounding the alarm on one specific type: reduced-fat peanut butter.
Nutritionist Lauren Manaker warns, “When fat is removed from peanut butter, manufacturers often replace it with less healthy ingredients.” These reduced-fat versions can contain added sugars, lead to higher carbohydrate intake, and may not even qualify as true peanut butter under FDA standards.

The irony is that peanut butter’s natural fat is actually beneficial. “Removing it doesn’t make the product healthier,” Manaker explains. “Instead, it transforms it into a less nutritious, more carbohydrate-heavy spread.” She cautions that the “reduced-fat” label can create a misleading health halo, potentially encouraging overconsumption.
Key Takeaways
- Dietitians advise avoiding reduced-fat peanut butter due to added sugars and higher carb content
- Natural peanut butter’s fat is beneficial and shouldn’t be removed
- Healthier options include brands with minimal ingredients like Crazy Richard’s and Trader Joe’s
The Problem with Reduced-Fat Peanut Butter
Reduced-fat peanut butter may seem like a healthy choice, but experts warn it can be less nutritious than regular versions. These products often contain added sugars and fewer peanuts, leading to potential health issues.
Nutritional Modifications and Additives
Nutritionist Lauren Manaker explains, “When fat is removed from peanut butter, manufacturers typically replace it with less healthy ingredients.” Many reduced-fat versions add sugars like corn syrup solids to improve taste and texture.
“These products can’t even be called true peanut butter,” Manaker notes. For example, Jif’s reduced-fat spread contains only 60% peanuts, falling short of the FDA’s 90% requirement for peanut butter.
The changes result in higher carb content. “Regular Jif contains 8 grams of carbohydrates while the reduced fat kind contains 15,” Manaker points out.
Misconceptions of Health Benefits
Many consumers believe reduced-fat peanut butter is healthier, but this isn’t the case. “Peanut butter’s natural fat is actually beneficial,” Manaker states.
The “reduced-fat” label can be misleading. It might lead people to eat more, thinking it’s a healthier option. In reality, these spreads can cause blood sugar spikes and potential weight gain.
Manaker advises, “Look for natural peanut butter with minimal ingredients.” She recommends brands like Crazy Richard’s 100% Peanuts or Trader Joe’s Creamy Salted Peanut Butter as healthier alternatives.
Healthier Peanut Butter Alternatives
Dietitians are speaking out against reduced-fat peanut butter. “These products often contain added sugars and aren’t as nutritious as people think,” says nutritionist Lauren Manaker.
Instead, experts recommend natural peanut butter brands with minimal ingredients. “Look for options that are 100% peanuts,” Manaker advises.
Some top picks from dietitians include:
- Crazy Richard’s 100% Peanuts
- Trader Joe’s Creamy Salted Peanut Butter
- Smucker’s Natural Creamy Peanut Butter
These choices offer healthy fats without unnecessary additives. “The natural fat in peanut butter is actually good for you,” Manaker explains.
For those seeking variety, other nut and seed butters can be great alternatives. Cashew butter provides a creamy texture and is lower in sugar than some options.
Almond butter is another popular choice. “It’s rich in vitamin E and magnesium,” notes one registered dietitian.
When shopping, always check the label. “The best options have just one or two ingredients,” Manaker emphasizes. This ensures you’re getting maximum nutrition without unwanted extras.