Pasteurized Soft Blend SULA Spread

Sula
Contains seed oils
40 Poor

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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 1
Harmful ingredients 7
Category Butter
Summary

This product is heavily processed, containing multiple synthetic additives such as sodium benzoate and potassium sorbate, which are used as preservatives. The presence of palm shortening, a processed fat, contributes to high saturated fat intake and raises environmental concerns. Despite containing pasteurized milk, which offers some nutritional benefits, the overall ingredient list and processing level significantly impact its healthiness.

Key ingredients 19

Vegetable palm shortening
Bad

Palm shortening is a processed fat that can contribute to increased saturated fat intake. It is often used as a cheaper alternative to butter or other fats. The environmental impact of palm oil production is also a concern.

Risks

High saturated fat content may contribute to cardiovascular issues if consumed in excess.

Benefits

Provides a stable fat source for cooking and baking due to its high melting point.

See more about Vegetable palm shortening →
Disodium phosphate
Bad

Disodium phosphate is used as an emulsifier and stabilizer in processed foods. It is a synthetic additive that can contribute to phosphate overload. Excessive phosphate intake is linked to kidney and cardiovascular issues.

Risks

May contribute to phosphate overload, affecting kidney function and bone health.

Benefits

Helps maintain product texture and stability in processed foods.

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Sodium benzoate
Bad

Sodium benzoate is a preservative used to prevent microbial growth. It is generally recognized as safe but can form benzene, a carcinogen, under certain conditions. Its use is controversial due to potential health concerns.

Risks

Potential to form benzene, a carcinogen, when combined with ascorbic acid (vitamin C).

Benefits

Effective in preventing spoilage and extending shelf life of products.

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Potassium sorbate
Bad

Potassium sorbate is a preservative used to inhibit mold and yeast growth. It is considered safe in small amounts but can cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Its synthetic nature raises concerns for some consumers.

Risks

May cause allergic reactions or skin irritation in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

Extends shelf life by preventing mold and yeast growth in food products.

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Carrageenan
Bad

Carrageenan is a thickening agent derived from red seaweed. It is controversial due to potential inflammatory effects in the digestive tract. Some studies suggest it may cause gastrointestinal issues.

Risks

May cause gastrointestinal inflammation and discomfort in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

Used to improve texture and stability in food products.

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Polysorbate
Bad

Polysorbate is a synthetic emulsifier used to improve texture and stability in foods. It is linked to potential gut inflammation and other health concerns. Its synthetic nature raises concerns for some consumers.

Risks

May contribute to gut inflammation and other health concerns.

Benefits

Improves texture and stability in processed foods.

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Maltodextrin
Bad

Maltodextrin is a highly processed carbohydrate used as a thickener and filler. It has a high glycemic index and can spike blood sugar levels. It is often used in processed foods to improve texture.

Risks

May spike blood sugar levels due to its high glycemic index.

Benefits

Improves texture and acts as a filler in processed foods.

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Salt
Neutral

Salt is used to enhance flavor and preserve food. It is a common culinary ingredient but does not provide additional health benefits. Excessive consumption can lead to health issues like hypertension.

Risks

High sodium intake can lead to increased blood pressure and cardiovascular risks.

Benefits

Essential for maintaining fluid balance and nerve function in the body.

See more about Salt →
Lactic cultures
Neutral

Lactic cultures are used to ferment dairy products, enhancing flavor and texture. They can contribute to gut health by promoting beneficial bacteria. However, their presence in small amounts may not provide significant probiotic benefits.

Benefits

May support gut health by promoting beneficial bacteria in the digestive system.

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Annatto
Neutral

Annatto is a natural coloring agent derived from the seeds of the achiote tree. It is used to impart a yellow or orange color to foods. It is generally considered safe with minimal health impact.

Risks

May cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

Provides natural color to foods without synthetic additives.

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Skim milk
Neutral

Skim milk is a low-fat dairy option that provides protein and calcium. It lacks the fat-soluble vitamins found in whole milk. It is suitable for those seeking to reduce fat intake.

Benefits

Provides protein and calcium with reduced fat content.

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Whey
Neutral

Whey is a byproduct of cheese production and a source of high-quality protein. It contains essential amino acids beneficial for muscle repair. It is often used in protein supplements.

Risks

May cause digestive issues in lactose-intolerant individuals.

Benefits

Rich in essential amino acids, supporting muscle repair and growth.

See more about Whey →
Galactomannans
Neutral

Galactomannans are polysaccharides used as thickening agents in food products. They are derived from plant sources like guar gum. They are generally considered safe with minimal health impact.

Benefits

Used to improve texture and stability in food products.

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Cellulose gum
Neutral

Cellulose gum is a thickening agent derived from plant fibers. It is used to stabilize and thicken processed foods. It is generally recognized as safe but offers no nutritional benefits.

Benefits

Improves texture and stability in processed foods.

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Sodium citrate
Neutral

Sodium citrate is used as an emulsifier and acidity regulator in foods. It helps maintain product consistency and flavor. It is generally recognized as safe with minimal health impact.

Benefits

Helps maintain product consistency and flavor in processed foods.

See more about Sodium citrate →
Glyceryl monostearate
Neutral

Glyceryl monostearate is an emulsifier used to stabilize food products. It is derived from glycerol and stearic acid. It is generally recognized as safe but offers no nutritional benefits.

Benefits

Improves texture and stability in processed foods.

See more about Glyceryl monostearate →
Glucomannans
Neutral

Glucomannans are dietary fibers derived from the konjac plant. They are used as thickening agents and may aid in digestion. They are generally considered safe with minimal health impact.

Risks

May cause digestive discomfort if consumed in large amounts.

Benefits

May aid in digestion and improve texture in food products.

See more about Glucomannans →
Xanthan gum
Neutral

Xanthan gum is a polysaccharide used as a thickening and stabilizing agent. It is produced through fermentation of sugars by Xanthomonas campestris bacteria. It is generally recognized as safe with minimal health impact.

Risks

May cause digestive discomfort in some individuals if consumed in large amounts.

Benefits

Improves texture and stability in processed foods.

See more about Xanthan gum →
Pasteurized milk
Good

Pasteurized milk is a source of high-quality protein and essential nutrients like calcium and vitamin D. The pasteurization process ensures safety by eliminating harmful bacteria. It supports bone health and provides a balanced nutrient profile.

Benefits

Rich in calcium and vitamin D, supporting bone health and providing essential nutrients for overall wellness.

See more about Pasteurized milk →

Processing

Group 4 · Ultra-processed

Ultra-Processed Foods

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Pasteurized Soft Blend SULA Spread

Common questions

Is Pasteurized Soft Blend SULA Spread healthy?

Pasteurized Soft Blend SULA Spread scores 40/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a below-average score in Scout's analysis. This product is heavily processed, containing multiple synthetic additives such as sodium benzoate and potassium sorbate, which are used as preservatives.

Does Pasteurized Soft Blend SULA Spread contain seed oils?

Yes — Scout's ingredient analysis flags seed oils in Pasteurized Soft Blend SULA Spread, and that is reflected in its score.

How processed is Pasteurized Soft Blend SULA Spread?

Pasteurized Soft Blend SULA Spread is NOVA Group 4: Ultra-Processed Foods.

How does Pasteurized Soft Blend SULA Spread compare to other butters?

Pasteurized Soft Blend SULA Spread ranks #28 of 30 butters in Scout's independent rankings. The current top score in the category is Raw Farm Raw Cultured Unsalted Butter at 100/100.

Which ingredients drive Pasteurized Soft Blend SULA Spread's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Pasteurized milk counts in its favor; Vegetable palm shortening, Disodium phosphate, Sodium benzoate are flagged as ingredients of concern. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

Healthy alternatives

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