VITAL FARMS Pasture-Raised Salted Butter scores 42/100 (Poor) due to its high saturated fat content, which significantly impacts its overall nutritional profile.
This butter has a FoodScore of 42/100 (Poor).
It is a NOVA class 2 food, indicating it is a processed culinary ingredient.
A serving contains 57.14g of saturated fat per 100g, contributing to a lower score.
It provides 57% DV of Vitamin A per 100g, a notable micronutrient.
Use in moderation due to its high fat and calorie density.
Scores -10 points above the dairy category average (52/100 across 162 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 Pasture-Raised Salted Butter receives a FoodScore of 42 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. The primary factor driving this score is its high content of saturated fat, which is 57.14g per 100g. This amount incurs a significant penalty of -15 points according to the USDA Dietary Guidelines. Additionally, the product contains 650mg of sodium per 100g, leading to a minor penalty of -3 points. On the positive side, VITAL FARMS butter receives a bonus of +2 points for its contribution of Vitamin A, providing 57% of the Daily Value per 100g. It also earns an additional +8 points for being a minimally processed culinary ingredient, classified as NOVA 2. Compared to generic salted butter, this product's nutritional profile is very similar, as both are primarily composed of cream (milk) and salt, resulting in comparable fat and calorie levels.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in vital farms pasture-raised salted butter actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Vitamin A
This butter provides a notable amount of Vitamin A, with 57% of the Daily Value per 100g. Vitamin A is an essential fat-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy vision, supporting immune function, and promoting proper cell growth and differentiation. Including sources of Vitamin A in the diet is important for overall health, and VITAL FARMS butter can contribute to meeting daily requirements when consumed as part of a balanced diet.
Minimally Processed Ingredient
VITAL FARMS Pasture-Raised Salted Butter is classified as a NOVA class 2 food, meaning it is a processed culinary ingredient. This classification indicates that it has undergone minimal processing, primarily involving the separation of components from whole foods, such as separating cream from milk to make butter. Products in this category are generally considered less processed than ultra-processed foods, which often contain many additives and highly refined ingredients. This can be a consideration for those prioritizing less processed foods in their diet.
Dietary Fat for Nutrient Absorption
As a source of dietary fat, this butter can aid in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) present in other foods. Many essential vitamins require fat to be properly absorbed and utilized by the body. While high in saturated fat, incorporating small amounts of butter with vegetables or other nutrient-rich foods can enhance the bioavailability of these important micronutrients, contributing to a more effective nutrient intake from meals.
VITAL FARMS Pasture-Raised Salted Butter scores 42/100 (Poor) due to its high saturated fat content, which significantly impacts its overall nutritional profile.
How to eat it
Butter is commonly used as a spread, in cooking, and for baking. A typical serving size is 1 tablespoon, which adds flavor and richness to dishes. Due to its calorie and fat density, it's often consumed in smaller quantities.
Use butter sparingly as a spread on toast or vegetables to manage calorie intake.
Incorporate into cooking for flavor, but consider using smaller amounts or combining with healthier fats like olive oil.
When baking, measure precisely to control the fat content of your recipes.
Pair with whole grains or vegetables to add richness while still consuming fiber-rich foods.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains milk, which is a common allergen. Individuals with a dairy allergy or lactose intolerance should avoid this product. Due to its high saturated fat content, individuals monitoring their intake of saturated fats for cardiovascular health reasons should consume this butter in moderation. The ingredient list is simple, consisting only of cream (milk) and sea salt, indicating an absence of artificial additives or preservatives that might be a concern for some consumers. However, the high fat content means it is calorie-dense and should be factored into daily dietary goals.
Is VITAL FARMS Pasture-Raised Salted Butter healthy?
VITAL FARMS Pasture-Raised Salted Butter has a FoodScore of 42/100, which is considered 'Poor.' While it offers some Vitamin A and is minimally processed, its high saturated fat content is a significant factor in its score. It can be part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation, but it is not a primary source of essential nutrients.
How does VITAL FARMS Pasture-Raised Salted Butter compare to other butters?
Compared to generic salted butter, VITAL FARMS Pasture-Raised Salted Butter has a very similar nutritional profile, particularly in terms of fat and calorie content. For instance, brands like Land O'Lakes Salted Butter also contain high levels of saturated fat. The primary difference often lies in sourcing and production practices, such as pasture-raised cream, rather than a significant nutritional advantage in macros or micros.
What is 'pasture-raised' and how does it affect the butter?
'Pasture-raised' refers to the way the cows are raised, implying they have access to pastures. While this may appeal to consumers for ethical or environmental reasons, it does not significantly alter the macronutrient profile (fat, protein, carbs) of the butter itself. The nutritional impact on the final product, beyond potentially slightly higher levels of certain fats like Omega-3s (though not significant enough to be listed here), is generally minor.
What is a recommended portion size for this butter?
A recommended portion size for VITAL FARMS Pasture-Raised Salted Butter is 1 tablespoon. This amount provides a significant contribution to your daily fat and calorie intake. It's important to be mindful of portion sizes, especially if you are watching your saturated fat intake or overall calorie consumption.
Can I use this butter for high-heat cooking?
Yes, butter has a relatively low smoke point compared to some other cooking oils, but it can be used for moderate-heat cooking, sautéing, and baking. For very high-heat applications, you might consider oils with higher smoke points, such as avocado oil or ghee, to prevent burning and preserve flavor. The fat composition of butter makes it suitable for many culinary uses.