Nut butter has been around for over a hundred years. Peanuts (in fact, peanuts aren’t really nuts at all – they’re technically legumes) were first to be ground until their rich oils ran. The resulting protein-packed paste was found to be so nutritious and delicious, it was only a matter of time before other (official!) nuts (and seeds, too) followed suit.

The Rise and Rise of Spreadable Nuts and Seeds

Nut and seed butters have become increasingly popular with the rise of plant-based diets and demand for high-protein and whole foods. They’re a true store-cupboard staple for health-conscious foodies. Why?

Well, they are each delicious with a flavour-profile unique to the nut or seed. They’re super versatile, perfect in curries, baking and spread straight from the jar! They add a depth to cooking that is hard to come by outside of animal products. They feel rich and decadent to eat. And yet, they’re amazingly good for you. Intrigued? Read on!

Nutritious Nuts

According to an article published in Nutrients Journal, “Nuts are nutrient dense. They’re rich in unsaturated fatty and other bioactive compounds: high-quality vegetable protein, fibre and minerals”. The article goes on to review research, which suggests nuts can have beneficial effects across many areas of health, particularly cardiovascular risk factors.

To celebrate all things nutty, seedy and spreadable, we’ve given our range a fresh new look and are shining a spotlight on some of their superfood credentials.

Heart-Healthy Hazelnuts

Hazelnuts are a great source of nutrients, particularly rich in vitamin E and folate, which is associated with healthy spine and brain development in foetuses. They’re also purported to reduce heart disease risk factors.

Biona Organic Hazelnut Butter is milled from small batches of freshly roasted, certified organic nuts, nothing more; nothing less. Utterly free from added sugar, salt, palm fat and emulsifiers, you get all the goodness of pure hazelnuts in a versatile, spreadable form. Great smeared on toast and stirred into porridge but outstanding when added to cacao-based baking (substitute chocolate spread for hazelnut butter plus a teaspoon of cacao).

Creamy Cashews

Cashews contain plenty of magnesium, an all-important mineral implicated in many of the reactions happening in our bodies all the time. As the slightly carb-heavier nut in this array, cashews are a great energy source, packed with a number of important nutrients. Studies indicate that these creamy crescents may improve blood lipid levels and reduce blood pressure.

A jar of Biona Organic Cashew Nut Butter contains 100% freshly roasted, milled organic nuts. It makes for a hearty breakfast thickly spread on hot toast and topped with banana or serves as a great afternoon pick-me-up when popped on crackers. The distinctly velvety consistency works wonders in smoothies, raw desserts and can even be used as a replacement for traditional cream to decorate cakes.

We Love White Tahini

Biona Organic Tahini is made using hulled sesame seeds for an extra smooth texture. Tahini is a brilliant source of protein for growth and repair, vitamins B and E and other important minerals, such as magnesium, iron and calcium. Sesame seeds themselves have been found to improve lipid profile, reduce oxidative stress and benefit blood pressure.

A good tahini is central to a good hummus, but it’s also great in a dressing or sauce, like this one, baking and no-bakes! The flavour is naturally bitter, so tahini comes alive when combined with an acid – such as lemon juice, or a sweetener – such as maple syrup.

Amazing Almonds

Almond butter – a long time favourite PB replacement for those with a peanut allergy - is rich in calcium and copper: super for brain health and bone strength. Studies suggest healthy almond butter consumption can have positive effects on risk of heart disease, diabetes and stroke.

For the more sweet-toothed among us, Biona Organic Coconut Almond Butter blends freshly ground almonds with coconut and a dash of coconut blossom nectar. Deliciously indulgent with a hint of tropical sweetness, it’s a flavour sensation in smoothies and porridge or on toast, crumpets and crackers. For the perfect mid-morning snack, spread on Biona rye bread and top with fresh fruit.

The Bottom Line

Nuts and seeds in all their spreadable glory are here to stay. At Biona Organic, we work hard to keep our jars full of goodness and goodness only – from the inside to the outside. We only use the very best organic nuts and seeds and work in small batches to keep every ounce up to our exacting, fresh and flavourful standards. Once you’ve enjoyed every last smear, please recycle our glass jars and BPA-free lids. And you can rest easy, we carefully source all our ingredients with sustainability in mind – our butters are palm oil free.

Have you tried them all? We’d love to hear which is your favourite and how you like it. Let us know over on social media! #SpreadTheJoy