VITAL FARMS SEA SALTED PASTURE-RAISED BUTTER, SEA SALTED scores 42/100 (Poor) primarily due to its high saturated fat content. It provides a notable amount of Vitamin A.
This butter has a FoodScore of 42/100, indicating a poor nutritional profile.
It contains 57.07g of saturated fat per 100g, a significant contributor to its low score.
VITAL FARMS butter is a NOVA class 2 food, meaning it is a processed culinary ingredient.
Compared to generic butter, this product is nutritionally similar, with both being high in fat.
Use in moderation due to its high 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
650mg
28% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Micronutrients (Vitamin A)+2
Minimally processed (NOVA 2)+8
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (57.1g)-15
Sodium (650mg)-3
Why it scores 42
VITAL FARMS SEA SALTED PASTURE-RAISED BUTTER, SEA SALTED receives a FoodScore of 42 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. The primary factor driving this score is its high fat content, specifically saturated fat, which stands at 57.07g per 100g. This contributes a significant penalty of -15 points to the overall score. The product also contains 650mg of sodium per 100g, leading to a -3 point penalty. On the positive side, VITAL FARMS butter is a NOVA class 2 food, categorized as a processed culinary ingredient, which earns it a +8 bonus for being minimally processed. It also provides a substantial amount of Vitamin A, contributing a +2 bonus. The ingredient list is simple, consisting only of CREAM (MILK) and sea salt, with no added sugar or fiber. Compared to a generic dairy butter, this product is nutritionally similar, as butter is inherently high in fat and calories.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in vital farms sea salted pasture-raised butter, sea salted actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Vitamin A
VITAL FARMS SEA SALTED PASTURE-RAISED BUTTER is a significant source of Vitamin A, providing 318% of the Daily Value per 100g. Vitamin A is an essential fat-soluble vitamin important for vision, immune function, and skin health. Incorporating small amounts of this butter into a balanced diet can contribute to meeting daily Vitamin A requirements, particularly for individuals who may not consume other rich sources regularly.
Minimally Processed Culinary Ingredient
As a NOVA class 2 food, VITAL FARMS butter is classified as a processed culinary ingredient. This means it has undergone minimal processing, primarily to extract it from its natural source, CREAM (MILK), and make it suitable for cooking and baking. Foods in this category are generally considered less processed than ultra-processed foods, which often contain numerous additives and highly refined ingredients. This classification contributes positively to its overall FoodScore.
Enhances Flavor and Satiety
Butter, including VITAL FARMS SEA SALTED PASTURE-RAISED BUTTER, is widely used to enhance the flavor and texture of dishes. Its fat content can contribute to a feeling of satiety, which may help with portion control when used judiciously. While high in calories and saturated fat, using small amounts to improve the palatability of nutrient-dense foods like vegetables can make them more enjoyable and encourage consumption.
VITAL FARMS SEA SALTED PASTURE-RAISED BUTTER, SEA SALTED scores 42/100 (Poor) primarily due to its high saturated fat content. It provides a notable amount of Vitamin A.
How to eat it
Butter is typically used as a cooking fat, a spread for bread, or an ingredient in baking. A common serving size is 1 tablespoon, which is a calorie-dense portion due to its high fat content. It's often consumed with meals or snacks.
Use VITAL FARMS butter sparingly as a flavor enhancer for vegetables or whole grains, rather than as a primary fat source.
Consider blending it with olive oil or avocado oil in cooking to reduce the overall saturated fat content of your meal.
Measure portions carefully; a small amount can go a long way in adding richness without significantly increasing calorie and saturated fat intake.
Pair with fiber-rich foods like whole-wheat toast or steamed vegetables to help balance nutrient intake.
Things to keep in mind
The primary caution with VITAL FARMS SEA SALTED PASTURE-RAISED BUTTER is its high content of saturated fat. While the ingredient list is simple, consisting only of CREAM (MILK) and sea salt, the significant amount of saturated fat per serving can contribute to exceeding daily recommended limits if not consumed in moderation. Individuals monitoring their intake of saturated fat for cardiovascular health should be mindful of portion sizes. This product contains milk, which is a common allergen.
Is VITAL FARMS SEA SALTED PASTURE-RAISED BUTTER healthy?
VITAL FARMS SEA SALTED PASTURE-RAISED BUTTER scores 42/100 (Poor) on FoodScore. While it offers Vitamin A and is minimally processed, its high saturated fat content is a significant factor in its score. It is best consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
How does VITAL FARMS butter compare to other butter brands?
Compared to generic butter or other brands like Land O'Lakes, VITAL FARMS SEA SALTED PASTURE-RAISED BUTTER is nutritionally similar in terms of its high fat and calorie content. The primary difference often lies in sourcing and production methods, rather than a significant change in macro or micronutrient profiles for butter itself.
What does 'pasture-raised' mean for this butter?
'Pasture-raised' refers to the farming practices for the cows that produce the milk used in VITAL FARMS butter. While this may imply certain animal welfare or environmental benefits, it does not significantly alter the nutritional composition of the butter itself, which remains high in fat and calories.
What is a recommended portion size for VITAL FARMS butter?
A typical serving size for butter is 1 tablespoon. Given its high calorie count (785.71 calories per 100g) and significant saturated fat (57.07g per 100g), it is advisable to use this butter in small, measured portions to avoid excessive intake of saturated fat and calories.
Can I use VITAL FARMS butter for baking and cooking?
Yes, VITAL FARMS SEA SALTED PASTURE-RAISED BUTTER can be used for both baking and cooking, similar to other butter products. Its flavor and texture are suitable for various culinary applications. However, consider its high saturated fat content when incorporating it into recipes, and balance with other fats if desired.