Now that the dangers of the trans fatty acids (TFAs) in margarines are better appreciated, nutritional experts are returning to butter. A Which? survey of 100 margarines and spreads found that 27 had TFA levels above that considered advisable. The report said that one brand, Somerfield’s own-brand packet margarine, contained 21 grams of TFAs per 100 grams and should display a health warning. High levels of TFAs were also found in Willow, Clover, Anchor Soft, Golden Churn and Pura Buttertaste.

Dr Wendy Doyle of the British Dietetic Association suggested that a maximum TFA content of 4% would be acceptable. The report also warned lovers of ‘olive oil-based’ spreads that the levels of olive oil they contained were often as low as 4%.

Ed.- Buy organic butter if you can. Alarming levels of pesticides were recently detected in many non-organic brands.