Natural vs. regular PB

[visions]

someone please help me understand why natural is better than skippy or whatever?

Thanks!

 

[frankenfurter]

Peanut butter, as defined by the U.S. FDA's Standard of Identity, must consist of at least 90 percent peanuts with no more than 10 percent by weight seasoning and stabilizing ingredients. These optional ingredients may include salt, sugars and partially hydrogenated vegetable oil. They may not include lard or other animal fats, artificial flavorings, artificial sweeteners, chemical preservatives or colors.

"Natural" peanut butter should have one ingredient: Peanuts

 

[doffmaster]

Well, I used to think that natural peanut butter has less trans-fatty acids. Those are the bad ones that are worse than saturated fats. But I just read something (and only God knows how credible the internet source is) that said they are similar:

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MYTH: There is a huge difference between regular peanut butter and natural peanut butter
FACT: NO! Peanut butter today is remarkably like that made 100 years ago. All peanut butter, by law, must contain a minimum of 90% peanuts. Both natural and regular peanut butters may contain some sugar and salt for flavoring. Some brands also contain a small amount of stabilizer (partially hydrogenated vegetable oil) to keep the oil from separating, which most consumers prefer. This also helps maintain peanut butter freshness.
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But really the hydrogenated oil is no good for you. I'm pretty sure that the natural peanut butter has a better "good" vs "bad" fat ratio too.

 

[bishonen]

It's just a processed vs. a natural food. Do you mind additives? Do you try and eat clean? Do you care about your health?

 

[AMBB4L]

Natural peanut butter is the way to go -- just peanuts and a little salt for flavor. Most of those processed peanut butters have too much added sugar for flavor and all kinds of preservatives.

 

[Haz]

They taste different too. Natural has a much strong peanut flavor then regular PB. You'll quickly grow to like it, and you won't want regular PB anymore.

 

[Shankerr]

I prefer the taste of natty PB myself.

Basically the difference is that natty is just that, all natural, and processed, like skippy or whatever has additives and preservatives and what not

 

[Ceebs]

I prefer the taste of natty PB myself.

Me too. It cooks and spreads better.

If anyone's really so concerned about store-bought allegedly "natural" PB, most health food stores will grind it fresh from peanuts on the spot, or you can go one step further and make your own with an industrial-strength food processor.

 

[FitFossil]

Natural PB tastes like real peanuts. The other kind is too sickly sweet
...although I don't seem to mind whatever kind they put in Reese's cups

 

[frankenfurter]

...although I don't seem to mind whatever kind they put in Reese's cups

Agggrrhh! I haven't had a sugar craving until JUST NOW!