Is butter good for you?

Butter scores 47/100 (Decent) on FoodScore. It provides vitamins A and D and is minimally processed (NOVA 2). However, it is high in saturated fat, which should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Is butter good for weight loss?

Butter is calorie-dense, with 717 calories per 100g. While it can be part of a balanced diet, its high caloric content means portion control is important for weight management goals. It does not contain protein or fiber, which contribute to satiety.

Is butter good for people with diabetes?

Butter contains no added sugar and has a negligible impact on blood sugar levels. However, its high saturated fat content is a concern for cardiovascular health, which is particularly important for individuals managing diabetes. Consult a healthcare professional for personalized dietary advice.

Is butter ultra-processed?

No, butter is classified as NOVA Class 2, meaning it is a processed culinary ingredient. This indicates it is minimally processed and not an ultra-processed food, which typically involves many industrial ingredients and processes.

dairy · Serving 1 tbsp

Butter

Butter scores 47/100 (Decent) on FoodScore. It offers beneficial micronutrients and is minimally processed, though its high saturated fat content is a notable drawback.

Decent

FoodScore / 100

Score breakdown

What it has going for it

Bonuses

Micronutrients (Vitamin A, Vitamin D)+4
Minimally processed (NOVA 2)+8

What brings the score down

Penalties

Saturated fat (51.4g)-15

Based on our published methodology (USDA Dietary Guidelines 2020-2025 + NIH DRI).

Nutrition facts

Nutrient	Per 100g	% DV
Calories	717 kcal	—
Total fat	81.1 g	104%
Saturated fat	51.4 g	257%
Trans fat	0 g	—
Fiber	0 g	0%
Protein	0 g	0%
Added sugar	0 g	0%
Sodium	11 mg	0%
Potassium	0 mg	0%
Calcium	0 mg	0%
Iron	0 mg	0%
Magnesium	0 mg	0%
Phosphorus	0 mg	0%
Zinc	0 mg	0%
Vitamin A	77 %	77%
Vitamin C	0 %	0%
Vitamin D	10 %	10%
Vitamin E	0 %	0%
Vitamin K	0 %	0%
Vitamin B12	0 %	0%
Folate	0 %	0%
Riboflavin	0 %	0%
Omega-3	0 g	—

Eat this instead

Higher-scoring foods in the same category.

Cottage cheese (low-fat)

dairy

71Good

Greek yogurt (plain, nonfat)

dairy

70Good

Greek yogurt (plain, whole milk)

dairy

69Good

Milk (skim)

dairy

62Good

Milk (whole)

dairy

62Good

Frequently asked questions

Is butter good for you?: Butter scores 47/100 (Decent) on FoodScore. It provides vitamins A and D and is minimally processed (NOVA 2). However, it is high in saturated fat, which should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Is butter good for weight loss?: Butter is calorie-dense, with 717 calories per 100g. While it can be part of a balanced diet, its high caloric content means portion control is important for weight management goals. It does not contain protein or fiber, which contribute to satiety.
Is butter good for people with diabetes?: Butter contains no added sugar and has a negligible impact on blood sugar levels. However, its high saturated fat content is a concern for cardiovascular health, which is particularly important for individuals managing diabetes. Consult a healthcare professional for personalized dietary advice.
Is butter ultra-processed?: No, butter is classified as NOVA Class 2, meaning it is a processed culinary ingredient. This indicates it is minimally processed and not an ultra-processed food, which typically involves many industrial ingredients and processes.

Sources: USDA FoodData Central · FDA Nutrition Facts label

Updated 4/19/2026.