The Ultimate Guide to Non-GMO Peanut Butter Brands and Recipes

What is Non-GMO Peanut Butter?

Non-GMO peanut butter is peanut butter made without genetically modified organisms (GMOs). GMOs are plants or animals that have had their DNA altered through genetic engineering techniques. Most conventional peanut crops today are grown from GMO seeds, meaning the peanuts contain GMOs.

To qualify as non-GMO, the peanut butter must be made from peanuts that have not been genetically engineered. Non-GMO peanuts are grown from non-GMO seeds using traditional breeding practices without direct DNA manipulation.

How to Identify Non-GMO Peanut Butter

Checking for non-GMO certification labels is the best way to verify the peanut butter you are buying is non-GMO. Here are some common non-GMO labels to look for:

• Non-GMO Project Verified
• USDA Organic - organic standards prohibit GMOs
• Foodchain ID Non-GMO - tested to contain less than 0.9% GMOs

You can also check the ingredient list for indications a product is non-GMO. Non-GMO peanut butters will often state "made from non-GMO peanuts" or specify the peanut variety, like Valencia peanuts, which are non-GMO.

Benefits of Choosing Non-GMO Peanut Butter

Opting for non-GMO peanut butter offers several benefits:

• Avoids health and environmental risks potentially associated with GMOs
• Supports non-GMO farmers and breeders
• Prevents further GMO contamination in crops
• Provides extra assurance for those wishing to avoid GMOs

How to Shop for the Healthiest Non-GMO Peanut Butter

When purchasing non-GMO peanut butter, you also want to select the healthiest brand possible. Here are some tips for choosing a healthy non-GMO peanut butter:

1. Look for Natural Peanut Butter

Natural peanut butter contains just peanuts and maybe a little bit of salt. This variety has no added sugars or oils. The ingredients should read "peanuts" and "salt" at most.

2. Avoid Added Sugars

Many conventional peanut butters add sugars like corn syrup, sugar or honey. Go for an unsweetened natural peanut butter with no added sugars.

3. Don't Purchase Reduced-Fat

Reduced-fat peanut butter often contains more added sugars to improve flavor. Stick to regular full-fat natural peanut butter.

4. Choose Creamy over Super-Creamy

The creamiest peanut butters often have vegetable oils added. Creamy natural peanut butter has just enough natural oils.

5. Select Sustainably Grown

Look for peanut butter made from organically grown peanuts or peanuts sourced using sustainable farming methods when possible.

6. Avoid Potential Allergens

Peanut butter made in facilities that also process milk, soy, wheat, tree nuts and other allergens runs a very small risk of cross-contamination issues.

7. Select Glass Jars

Glass jars prevent unsafe chemical leaching compared to plastic containers.

8 Best Non-GMO Peanut Butter Brands

Here are some top-rated healthy non-GMO peanut butter brands to try:

1. Santa Cruz Dark Roasted Creamy Peanut Butter

• Non-GMO Project Verified
• USDA Organic and Fair Trade
• Only dry-roasted peanuts and salt
• Rich flavor from dark roast
• Creamy texture without additives

2. MaraNatha Organic Peanut Butter, Creamy

• USDA Organic
• No added sugars or oils
• Easy stir creaminess
• Sustainably grown peanuts
• Good source of protein

3. Once Again Nut Butter Organic Creamy Peanut Butter

• Non-GMO Project Verified
• USDA Organic
• Simply dry-roasted organic peanuts and salt
• Sustainably farmed and fairly traded
• Rich, full-bodied flavor

4. 365 Everyday Value, Organic Creamy Peanut Butter

• USDA Organic
• Non-GMO Project Verified
• No added sugar or oils
• Squeeze pouch or jar options
• Budget-friendly price

5. Teddie All Natural Peanut Butter, Creamy

• Non-GMO verified
• No corn syrup or hydrogenated oils
• Sustainably sourced peanuts
• Certified gluten-free
• Rich roasted peanut flavor

6. Trader Joe's Valencia Peanut Butter, Creamy

• Valencia peanuts are non-GMO
• Just dry-roasted peanuts and salt
• Creamy texture
• Great price
• Peanut skins provide nutrition

7. Thrive Market Organic Creamy Peanut Butter

• USDA Organic
• Non-GMO Project Verified
• Fair trade
• Rich flavor
• Certified sustainable and ethical

8. Peanut Butter & Co, The Bee's Knees Peanut Butter

• Non-GMO Project Verified
• Only dry-roasted peanuts and salt
• Sweetened with honey
• Sustainably sourced peanuts
• Smooth texture

How to Store Non-GMO Peanut Butter

To retain the quality and fresh flavor of natural peanut butter, proper storage is key:

• Store unopened jars in a cool, dry place like the pantry.
• Refrigerate opened peanut butter to prevent oil separation.
• Stir well before each use if oil separation occurs.
• Use within 3-4 months for best quality and freshness.
• Freeze extra peanut butter for long term storage up to 9 months.

How to Use Non-GMO Peanut Butter

Non-GMO peanut butter is endlessly versatile. Here are some ways to eat and cook with this protein-packed spread:

• Spread on apple, banana, celery or whole grain toast slices
• Stir into oatmeal, yogurt, cottage cheese or smoothies
• Use as the base of a flavorful sauce for stir fries, noodles or chicken
• Make homemade peanut sauce for salads, sandwiches, wraps or dipping
• Add to baked goods like cookies, granola bars and muffins
• Spoon into waffle or pancake batter before cooking
• Blend with spices to create curries, stews and soups
• Swirl into Greek yogurt with fruit and honey for a sweet snack
• Use as the glue in homemade energy balls and bars

Enjoy the nutrition and flavors of non-GMO peanut butter in everything from simple snacks to unique recipes.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.