Margarine

Margarine is a popular butter substitute made primarily from refined vegetable oils, water, and salt, often with added emulsifiers and flavorings. Originating in France in the late 19th century as an affordable alternative to butter, it has become a global pantry staple used for spreading, baking, and cooking.

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🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

Margarine is predominantly a source of fat, with very little protein or carbohydrates. Depending on its formulation, it can be a significant source of unsaturated fats and is often fortified with vitamins A and D, with a typical serving containing around 100-120 calories.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	100 kcal
Protein	0.1 g
Carbs	0.1 g
Fat	11.5 g
Fiber	0 g
Sugar	0 g
Sodium	120 mg
Vitamin A	115 mcg RAE
Vitamin D	0.2 mcg
Vitamin E	1.5 mg
Vitamin K	8 mcg
Sodium	120 mg
Potassium	5 mg
Cholesterol	0 mg
Saturated Fat	2.8 g

Per 1 tablespoon (14 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Margarine was invented in 1869 by a French chemist in response to a challenge from Emperor Napoleon III to create a butter alternative for the military and working class. Its composition has evolved dramatically over the decades, shifting from using animal fats to becoming almost entirely plant-based.