Margarine — Nutrients, Health Benefits, And Shopping Tips
Written by Listonic Team
Last update on September 4, 2024
Nutrition facts
Nutrition facts
Amount per 100 g
Calories
🔥 717 kcal
| Nutrients per: 100 g | Value | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Carbs | 1 g | 0.36% |
| Fiber | 0 g | - |
| Sugars | 0 g | - |
| Glycemic Index | 0 | - |
| Protein | 0 g | - |
| Sodium | 690 mg | 30% |
| Total Fat | 81 | 103.85% |
*The % of Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
1 g
⬇️ Low Carb Content
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Health benefits
- Rich in healthy fats (if made with plant oils), which support heart health and provide energy.
- Contains essential vitamins such as Vitamin A and Vitamin D (if fortified), which support overall health and well-being.
- May be lower in saturated fat compared to butter, making it a heart-healthier option.
Health risks
- Trans fats content in some varieties of margarine, which can raise cholesterol levels, increase the risk of heart disease, and contribute to inflammation, though many brands have reduced or eliminated trans fats in recent years.
- High calorie content which can contribute to weight gain if consumed frequently or in large quantities, particularly when paired with high-calorie foods.
- High sodium content in some salted varieties, which can contribute to hypertension and increased cardiovascular risks.
- Potential for artificial additives such as preservatives, colorings, or flavorings in some commercial margarines, which may cause adverse reactions in sensitive individuals.
How to choose margarine
Margarine should have a creamy texture and a uniform pale yellow color. It should spread easily without tearing bread. The consistency should be smooth, without any oiliness or separation.
Avoid margarine that has a greasy texture or an artificial flavor, as these can detract from its quality. Quality margarine should mimic butter in flavor and performance, offering a versatile, plant-based alternative for cooking and baking.
How to store margarine
Margarine should be kept in the refrigerator in its original packaging. Ensure it is sealed properly to preserve its consistency and taste. When stored correctly, margarine can remain fresh for 4-5 months in the fridge.
Storing margarine at room temperature for too long may lead to spoilage and separation. Minimize exposure to air and light to maintain its quality. Always use a clean utensil to avoid contamination and make sure the lid is tightly closed.
✅ Extra Tip
How long does it last?
Margarine can last for 4-5 months in the refrigerator. For longer storage, margarine can be frozen for up to 6-8 months. Always keep it tightly sealed to prevent it from absorbing other odors in the refrigerator or freezer.
What to do with leftovers?
Leftover margarine can be used in a variety of cooking and baking applications. Use it as a substitute for butter in baking, where it can add moisture and flavor to cakes, muffins, or cookies. Margarine is also great when used as a base for spreads, mixed with herbs and garlic to serve with bread or vegetables.
Use margarine to sauté vegetables, meats, or seafood, adding richness and flavor to the dish. If you have a lot of margarine, consider using it in a pastry dough for pies or tarts, where it helps create a flaky crust. Margarine can also be melted and used as a topping for popcorn, or mixed into a sauce for pasta or rice. For a quick snack, spread margarine on toast or crackers with a sprinkle of salt or a drizzle of honey.
👨⚕️️ Medical disclaimer
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Listonic Team
Fact-checked
Our editorial team checked this article to make sure it was accurate at the time of publishing it.
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