Spread
What is Spread?
A spread is a soft, viscous food substance that is solid at room temperature but spreads easily. It is typically made from a combination of fats, oils, and other ingredients like sweeteners, flavorings, and emulsifiers. Common bases include vegetable oils, butter, or nut butters.
Is Spread gluten-free?
Gluten is not typically a primary component of spreads themselves, but may be present in the food they are paired with.
Is Spread a major allergen?
Spreads can be derived from major allergens such as peanuts, tree nuts, milk, or soy, depending on their specific ingredients.
What is Spread used for?
Spreads are used to add flavor, moisture, and richness to foods.
Is Spread safe?
In the US, many common spread ingredients are Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA, or approved as food additives.
Why it's used
Spreads are used to add flavor, moisture, and richness to foods. They can also act as binders or emulsifiers in baked goods and confectionery. Spreads are commonly found in products like chocolate spreads, peanut butter, margarine, and cream cheese.
Health notes
In the US, many common spread ingredients are Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA, or approved as food additives. For example, vegetable oils and fats used in spreads are common food components. International bodies like JECFA have evaluated many common spread ingredients. Evidence on the health effects of specific spread formulations is often tied to the overall nutritional profile, particularly fat and sugar content.
Allergen info
Spreads can be derived from major allergens such as peanuts, tree nuts, milk, or soy, depending on their specific ingredients. Always check the product label for allergen information. Gluten is not typically a primary component of spreads themselves, but may be present in the food they are paired with.
Foods that contain Spread
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