KERRYGOLD NATURALLY SOFTER PURE IRISH BUTTER scores 42/100 (Poor) due to its high saturated fat content, which is a significant nutritional consideration for this product.
FoodScore: 42/100 (Poor) for KERRYGOLD NATURALLY SOFTER PURE IRISH BUTTER.
This butter is minimally processed (NOVA 2), a positive attribute.
The primary concern is 50g of saturated fat per 100g serving.
It aligns with generic butter in terms of macronutrient profile.
Use in moderation due to its calorie and saturated fat density.
Scores +9 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
0g
0% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
464.29mg
20% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Minimally processed (NOVA 2)+8
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (50g)-15
Sodium (464.3mg)-1
Why it scores 42
KERRYGOLD NATURALLY SOFTER PURE IRISH BUTTER receives a FoodScore of 42 out of 100, placing it in the Poor category. This score is largely driven by its macronutrient composition, particularly its fat content. Per 100g, this product contains 78.57g of total fat, with a substantial 50g of that being saturated fat. This high level of saturated fat incurs a significant penalty of 15 points in the FoodScore calculation, reflecting dietary guidelines that recommend limiting intake. Additionally, the product contains 464.29mg of sodium per 100g, leading to a minor penalty of 1 point. On the positive side, KERRYGOLD butter benefits from being a minimally processed culinary ingredient (NOVA class 2), which adds 8 bonus points to its score. The ingredient list is simple, containing only pasteurized cream and salt, without added sugars or fiber. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, KERRYGOLD NATURALLY SOFTER PURE IRISH BUTTER has a similar nutritional profile, with saturated fat being the primary factor influencing its score.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in kerrygold naturally softer pure irish butter actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Dietary Fat
This butter provides a concentrated source of dietary fat, which is essential for energy production and the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. While high in saturated fat, fats are a necessary component of a balanced diet. The 78.57g of total fat per 100g contributes significantly to caloric intake, making it a calorie-dense food. It can be a useful ingredient for adding richness and flavor to meals, especially in contexts where higher fat content is desired for satiety or culinary purposes.
Minimally Processed Ingredient
KERRYGOLD NATURALLY SOFTER PURE IRISH BUTTER is classified as a NOVA class 2 food, indicating it is a processed culinary ingredient. This means it has undergone minimal processing, primarily churning cream into butter and adding salt. Its simple ingredient list, consisting only of pasteurized cream and salt, reflects this minimal processing. Choosing minimally processed foods can be a part of a healthy eating pattern, as they often contain fewer additives and retain more of their inherent properties compared to ultra-processed alternatives.
Enhances Flavor and Texture
Butter, including KERRYGOLD, is widely used for its ability to enhance the flavor and texture of various dishes. Its rich, creamy profile can improve the palatability of vegetables, baked goods, and cooked meats. While not a direct nutrient benefit, the enjoyment of food plays a role in dietary adherence and overall well-being. Using butter in small amounts can make healthy foods more appealing, potentially encouraging greater consumption of nutrient-dense ingredients.
KERRYGOLD NATURALLY SOFTER PURE IRISH BUTTER scores 42/100 (Poor) due to its high saturated fat content, which is a significant nutritional consideration for this product.
How to eat it
Butter is commonly used as a spread, in cooking, and in baking. A typical serving size is 1 tablespoon, which is a small but calorie-dense portion. It's often added to toast, vegetables, or used to sauté foods.
Use butter sparingly as a spread; a thin layer on whole-grain toast can add flavor without excessive calories.
When cooking, consider using butter alongside olive oil or avocado oil to reduce the overall saturated fat content while retaining flavor.
In baking, look for recipes that allow for reduced butter quantities or explore substitutions like unsweetened applesauce for some of the fat.
Pair butter with fiber-rich foods like vegetables or whole grains to help balance the meal's nutritional profile.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains dairy (pasteurized cream), which is a common allergen. Individuals with a milk allergy or lactose intolerance should avoid this product. While butter is a natural product, its high saturated fat content means it should be consumed in moderation, especially for those monitoring their cardiovascular health. The sodium content, at 464.29mg per 100g, is not excessively high for a culinary ingredient but contributes to daily sodium intake. There are no artificial additives, colors, or preservatives in the ingredient list, making it a relatively clean label product from an additive perspective.
Is KERRYGOLD NATURALLY SOFTER PURE IRISH BUTTER healthy?
KERRYGOLD NATURALLY SOFTER PURE IRISH BUTTER has a FoodScore of 42/100 (Poor). While it is minimally processed and made with simple ingredients like pasteurized cream and salt, its high content of saturated fat is a significant nutritional consideration. It can be part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation, but it is not a primary source of essential vitamins or minerals.
How does KERRYGOLD NATURALLY SOFTER PURE IRISH BUTTER compare to other butters?
Compared to generic butter, KERRYGOLD NATURALLY SOFTER PURE IRISH BUTTER has a very similar nutritional profile, particularly in its high saturated fat content. For example, it is comparable to Land O'Lakes butter in its macronutrient breakdown. The 'naturally softer' aspect refers to its texture, not a significant nutritional difference. It is important to note that all traditional butters are calorie-dense and high in saturated fat.
What does 'naturally softer' mean for this butter?
The 'naturally softer' claim for KERRYGOLD NATURALLY SOFTER PURE IRISH BUTTER refers to its texture, which is achieved through a specific churning process. It does not indicate a difference in its core nutritional composition, such as fat content or calories, compared to other KERRYGOLD butters or generic butter. It is a physical characteristic designed for easier spreading.
What is a reasonable portion size for KERRYGOLD butter?
A reasonable portion size for KERRYGOLD NATURALLY SOFTER PURE IRISH BUTTER is typically 1 tablespoon, which contains approximately 100 calories and 7g of saturated fat. Given its high calorie and saturated fat density, it's advisable to use it sparingly. For those monitoring their intake, even half a tablespoon can provide flavor with fewer calories.
Can I use KERRYGOLD butter for baking and cooking?
Yes, KERRYGOLD NATURALLY SOFTER PURE IRISH BUTTER is suitable for both baking and cooking. Its rich flavor and creamy texture make it a popular choice for various culinary applications. However, due to its high saturated fat content, consider using it in moderation or in combination with other oils to manage the overall fat profile of your dishes.