Apple butter

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Common questions

Is Apple butter healthy?

Apple butter scores 60/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This apple butter contains a significant amount of added sugars, including refined sugar and brown sugar, which contribute to high calorie content without essential nutrients.

How processed is Apple butter?

Apple butter is NOVA Group 3: Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Apple butter's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Apples, Cinnamon, Spices count in its favor; Sugar, Brown Sugar are flagged as ingredients of concern. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

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Apple butter

Walnut Creek Foods
60 Fair

Analysis updated September 2026 · How Scout scores

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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 3
Harmful ingredients 2
Owned by Coblentz Distributing Inc.
Category Butter
Summary

This apple butter contains a significant amount of added sugars, including refined sugar and brown sugar, which contribute to high calorie content without essential nutrients. While apples provide some beneficial nutrients, the product is processed and the presence of multiple forms of sugar reduces its overall healthiness. The processing level and added sugars limit its score despite the inclusion of natural ingredients like apples and spices.

Key ingredients 8

Apples
Good

Apples are a whole food rich in dietary fiber and vitamin C. They provide natural sweetness and antioxidants that support overall health. The presence of pectin in apples can aid in digestion and cholesterol management.

Benefits

Rich in dietary fiber and vitamin C, supporting digestive health and immune function. Contains antioxidants that may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

See more about Apples →
Cinnamon
Good

Beneficial ingredient — whole-food or functional value in this product class.

Benefits

Contains antioxidants and may have anti-inflammatory properties, though benefits are limited in small culinary amounts.

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Spices
Good

Whole-food seasonings, antioxidant-bearing.

Benefits

May provide antioxidants and enhance flavor, though benefits are limited in small culinary amounts.

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Apple Juice Concentrate
Neutral

Apple juice concentrate is a processed form of apple juice that retains some nutrients but is high in sugars. It is used to enhance flavor and sweetness in products. While it provides some vitamins, the concentration process reduces fiber content.

Risks

High sugar content can contribute to increased calorie intake and potential blood sugar spikes.

Benefits

Contains some vitamins and minerals from apples, though in reduced amounts compared to whole apples.

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Citric Acid
Neutral

Citric acid is a natural preservative and flavor enhancer commonly used in food products. It helps maintain freshness and adds a tangy flavor. It is generally recognized as safe when used in food products.

Benefits

Helps preserve food and enhance flavor without significant nutritional benefits.

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Salt
Neutral

Salt is a common seasoning and preservative used to enhance flavor. It is essential for maintaining fluid balance and nerve function. However, excessive intake can lead to health issues such as hypertension.

Risks

High sodium intake can contribute to hypertension and cardiovascular issues.

Benefits

Essential for maintaining fluid balance and nerve function, though benefits are limited to moderate consumption.

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Sugar
Bad

Refined sugar is a highly processed ingredient that contributes to increased calorie intake without providing essential nutrients. Excessive consumption can lead to health issues such as obesity and type 2 diabetes. It is often used to enhance sweetness but lacks nutritional benefits.

Risks

High intake of refined sugar can lead to weight gain, increased risk of metabolic disorders, and dental cavities.

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Brown Sugar
Bad

Brown sugar is a refined sugar with added molasses, providing minimal nutritional difference from white sugar. It contributes to calorie intake without essential nutrients. The molasses content gives it a slightly different flavor profile but does not significantly enhance nutritional value.

Risks

Similar to refined sugar, it can contribute to weight gain and increased risk of metabolic disorders when consumed in excess.

See more about Brown Sugar →

Processing

Group 3 · Processed

Processed Foods

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