In recent years, peanut butter has also started to conquer Italian consumers and it is now easy to find it on the shelves of all supermarkets, proposed in different versions, despite having never been a traditional food in our kitchens. Spread on bread, inserted in sweet and savory recipes or simply consumed as it is, this product is often presented as a source of vegetable proteins, “good” fats and other useful nutrients. But what is really behind this food? And what aspects should we know before buying it?
The Öko-test experts, a German independent magazine specialized in quality investigations and food safety, which periodically analyze very widespread products, including precisely peanut butter, answer these questions.
Peanut butter: because it is so loved
If in the United States and in many other nations peanut butter is an inevitable classic in handouts, in Italy its consumption is being expanded. This increase in popularity is due to several factors: on the one hand, the increasing attention to diets with high protein content and healthy lifestyles, on the other the influence of social media that have transformed this spreadable cream into a real trend phenomenon.
But what makes peanut butter particularly appreciated are above all its nutritional qualities. For 100 grams of product, it contains approximately:
In addition to the macronutrients, peanut butter provides important micronutrients: vitamins of group B and vitamin E, minerals such as magnesium, zinc, phosphorus, and fibers that help digestion and promote a feeling of lasting satiety.
The high fat content can worry, but most of them consist of unsaturated fatty acids, considered beneficial for health. In addition, today on the market there are organic products, without sugars and additives, which meet the favor of those who aim for a more natural and conscious diet.
But, be careful, not all peanut butter on the market is the same. It is important to always read the label carefully to choose a product as simple as possible, with few ingredients and without superfluous additives (the 100% peanut cream is the best choice). Only in this way can the quality and benefits of this food really be appreciated.
Peanut butter, what to pay attention to
Despite the nutritional qualities, it is important to pay attention to some aspects related to the production and quality of the final product. The German magazine ÖKO-TEST has conducted in-depth investigations by highlighting several potential contaminants of peanut butter:
Aflatoxins
One of the main risks concerns the presence of aflatoxins, toxins produced by molds that can develop when peanuts are not preserved correctly. These substances are potentially dangerous for health and can have harmful effects on genetic material.
Pollutants
During the roasting of peanuts, the formation of substances such as 3-mcpd and glycidils, substances suspected of increasing the risk of cancer can occur.
Heavy metals
Traces of heavy metals such as cadmium in some products have been detected, although always within limits considered safe by European regulations.
Glyphosate
This controversial herbicide can be present in traces. The international agency for cancer research (IARC) considers it probable carcinogen, while the European Agency for chemicals (Echa) does not agree. For greater safety, it is preferable to choose certified organic products.
What to check before the purchase
Before choosing peanut butter, pay attention to these aspects on the label:
If you have time and want to try your hand at the kitchen, you can also try to self -produce your peanut butter.
How much peanut butter to eat
Despite being a food full of useful nutrients, peanut butter is also very caloric and for this reason it must be consumed in moderation. An ideal portion is one or two tablespoons a day, inserted inside a balanced diet.
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