# Benecol Spread, Regular 8 Oz > Health and ingredient intelligence for a real grocery product. Source: Supermarket Puzzle (Grocery Intelligence Index). Not a shop. ## Snapshot - **Brand:** Benecol - **Retailer listed:** Foodtown - **Category:** Dairy - **Size:** 8 oz - **Human page:** https://supermarketpuzzle.com/product/benecol-spread-regular-8-oz-8-oz - **Slug:** `benecol-spread-regular-8-oz-8-oz` ## NOVA classification **NOVA 4** - Ultra-processed foods This spread is an ultra-processed product: it is industrially formulated from refined oils, emulsifiers, preservatives, added flavors and a functional ingredient (plant stanol ester), rather than being a minimally processed whole food. ## Review Benecol Spread (Regular, 8 oz) lives on the refrigerated shelf of the dairy and spreads aisle, tucked between tubs of butter, margarine and other plant-based spreads; it may also sit near pharmacy-end displays calling out heart-health products. Shoppers reach for it during grocery runs for breakfast staples, heart-conscious shopping lists, or when they want an everyday butter alternative for toast, bagels and sandwiches. The brand positions itself squarely as a functional, health-focused product—marketed toward middle-aged and older adults or anyone managing cholesterol—with clinical, science-forward language and a calm, reassuring package design rather than bright kid-oriented graphics. Labels lean into health halos: cholesterol-lowering claims, added vitamins, and statements such as "clinically shown" or "no trans fat" rather than organic or "all-natural" certification; the ingredient list shows both natural and artificial flavors and preservatives. In plain processing terms this is an industrially formulated spread made from refined vegetable oils, emulsifiers, plant stanol esters and stabilizers. Sensory impressions: a soft, spreadable tub texture with a smooth, slightly oily mouthfeel and a muted buttery note (but lighter than dairy butter thanks to buttermilk and added flavors). Packaged in a small plastic tub with a foil seal and paper label, its ritual is simple—spoon or knife onto warm toast or melt into a pan for low‑heat cooking. In American grocery culture Benecol functions as a pragmatic, medically framed swap for traditional spreads: convenient, everyday, and chosen as much for an intended health outcome as for taste. ## Diet flags - Vegetarian - Gluten-free ## Nutrition - **Serving size:** 1 tbsp - **Servings per container:** 16 - **Calories:** 70 - **Total fat:** 8g (10% DV) - **Saturated fat:** 1g (5% DV) - **Sodium:** 110mg (5% DV) - **Total carbs:** 0g (0% DV) - **Protein:** 0g ## Ingredients Canola Oil, Water, Plant Stanol Ester, Palm and Palm Kernel Oil, Less than 2 Percent of Salt, Buttermilk, Vegetable Monoglycerides (Emulsifier), Natural and Artificial Flavors, Potassium Sorbate, Citric Acid and Calcium Disodium EDTA (to Protect Freshness), DL-Alpha Tocopherol Acetate (Vitamin E), Vitamin A Palmitate, Beta-Carotene (Color). ## Flagged ingredients - **Canola Oil** (seed-oil): Seed oil high in omega-6 fatty acids - **Vegetable Monoglycerides** (emulsifier): Processed emulsifier - **Potassium Sorbate** (preservative): Synthetic preservative - **Beta-Carotene** (additive): Artificial coloring ## Context tags - **Occasions:** weekend-brunch, meal-prep-sunday, holiday-baking - **Vibes:** practical, health-conscious, convenient ## FAQ ### Is Benecol Spread healthy? The healthiness of Benecol Spread really depends on your dietary needs and goals. It contains 70 calories per tablespoon and 8 grams of fat, primarily from canola and palm oils. It’s designed to help manage cholesterol levels thanks to the plant stanol ester, but if you’re looking for a spread low in fat or calories, you might want to consider other options. ### Is Benecol Spread vegan? Not quite! Benecol Spread contains buttermilk, which is a dairy product, so it’s not vegan-friendly. If you're on a plant-based diet, you might want to explore alternatives that use nuts or seeds as a base. ### Is Benecol Spread gluten-free? Yes, Benecol Spread is gluten-free! So if you’re avoiding gluten for health reasons or dietary preferences, you can enjoy this spread without worry. ### Does Benecol Spread contain seed oils? Yes, it does contain canola oil and palm oil, both of which are considered seed oils. While some folks steer clear of seed oils due to their omega-6 fatty acid content, they can be part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation. ### Does Benecol Spread contain artificial sweeteners? Nope, no artificial sweeteners here! However, it does include natural and artificial flavors, which might be a consideration for those who prefer to keep things simple. ### Is Benecol Spread high in sugar? Not at all! Benecol Spread contains zero added sugars, making it a decent option if you're looking to cut back on your sugar intake. So, if you're spreading it on your toast, you won't be adding any extra sweetness. ### What are healthier alternatives to Benecol Spread? If you're seeking healthier alternatives, consider avocado spread or nut butters, which offer healthy fats and additional nutrients. You could also look for spreads made from whole foods and minimal processing for a more wholesome option. ### Can kids eat Benecol Spread? Yes, kids can eat it, but moderation is key. While it can help with cholesterol management, it’s important to ensure they’re getting a balanced diet rich in whole foods. Always check with your pediatrician if you have any concerns about dietary choices for your little ones. ### Is Benecol Spread good for weight loss? It can fit into a weight-loss plan if used mindfully! At 70 calories per tablespoon, it’s not overly high in calories, but remember that portion control is important. Pairing it with healthier foods can help you stay on track. ### Is Benecol Spread ultra-processed? Yes, you could say it falls into the ultra-processed category due to the presence of emulsifiers and preservatives like potassium sorbate and calcium disodium EDTA. While it's not the most natural option out there, it can still be enjoyed as part of a varied diet without too much fuss. ## Related products - [Heluva Good Mike's Hot Honey Dip](https://supermarketpuzzle.com/product/heluva-good-mikes-hot-honey-dip-12-oz) (NOVA 4) | markdown: https://supermarketpuzzle.com/__a2/md?path=/product/heluva-good-mikes-hot-honey-dip-12-oz - [Planet Oat, 52Oz., Vanilla](https://supermarketpuzzle.com/product/planet-oat-52oz-vanilla-52-oz) (NOVA 4) | markdown: https://supermarketpuzzle.com/__a2/md?path=/product/planet-oat-52oz-vanilla-52-oz - [Clio Chocolate Greek Yogurt - 4 Bar Count](https://supermarketpuzzle.com/product/clio-chocolate-greek-yogurt-4-bar-count-705-oz) (NOVA 4) | markdown: https://supermarketpuzzle.com/__a2/md?path=/product/clio-chocolate-greek-yogurt-4-bar-count-705-oz - [Organic Valley® Caramel Organic Oat Creamer, 32 oz](https://supermarketpuzzle.com/product/organic-valley-caramel-organic-oat-creamer-32-oz-32-oz) (NOVA 4) | markdown: https://supermarketpuzzle.com/__a2/md?path=/product/organic-valley-caramel-organic-oat-creamer-32-oz-32-oz - [4C Homestyle 3 Cheese](https://supermarketpuzzle.com/product/4c-homestyle-3-cheese-6-oz) (NOVA 3) | markdown: https://supermarketpuzzle.com/__a2/md?path=/product/4c-homestyle-3-cheese-6-oz - [Wonder Melon Fruit Vegetable Juice Blend Watermelon Lemon Cayenne Bottle](https://supermarketpuzzle.com/product/wonder-melon-fruit-vegetable-juice-blend-watermelon-lemon-cayenne-bottle-845-oz) (NOVA 3) | markdown: https://supermarketpuzzle.com/__a2/md?path=/product/wonder-melon-fruit-vegetable-juice-blend-watermelon-lemon-cayenne-bottle-845-oz - [I Cant Believe It'S Not Butter Tub, 45 Oz](https://supermarketpuzzle.com/product/i-cant-believe-its-not-butter-i-cant-believe-its-not-butter-tub-45-oz-45-oz) (NOVA 4) | markdown: https://supermarketpuzzle.com/__a2/md?path=/product/i-cant-believe-its-not-butter-i-cant-believe-its-not-butter-tub-45-oz-45-oz - [Activia Proactive Mixed Berry Prebiotic and Probiotic Yogurt, Creamy Low Fat Yogurt Cups, 5.3 oz, 4 Count​](https://supermarketpuzzle.com/product/activia-proactive-mixed-berry-prebiotic-and-probiotic-yogurt-creamy-low-fat-yogurt-cups-53-oz-4-count-2120-oz) (NOVA 4) | markdown: https://supermarketpuzzle.com/__a2/md?path=/product/activia-proactive-mixed-berry-prebiotic-and-probiotic-yogurt-creamy-low-fat-yogurt-cups-53-oz-4-count-2120-oz ## For agents Prefer this markdown sheet over scraping the HTML page. 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