Is margarine healthier than butter?

Margarine can be lower in saturated fats than butter but may contain trans fats which are harmful.

Can margarine be used for baking?

Yes, margarine can replace butter in baking, but the texture and flavor may vary.

Most margarine is dairy-free, but some varieties may contain milk products, so check the labels.

Dairy

A creamy spread made from vegetable oils and water, often used as a butter substitute.

Per 100 g

717 kcal

1 tablespoon

100 kcal

(14 g)

Protein	Carbs	Fat
0.4 g / 100g	0.1 g / 100g	81 g / 100g

Where the calories come from

Protein 0% · Carbs 0% · Fat 100%

Share of energy: 4 kcal per gram of protein and carbs, 9 kcal per gram of fat.

1 tablespoon (14 g, 100 kcal) is 5% of a 2,000 kcal day. 2,000 kcal is the reference day used on nutrition labels, not a personal target.
Burning 1 tablespoon takes about 24 min of brisk walking. Estimate for a 70 kg adult walking briskly (about 4 kcal a minute).

Margarine Spread is number 6 of 6 by calories per 100 g, lowest first. The similar foods average 202 kcal per 100 g.

Nutrition data updated June 12, 2026.

Serving	Grams	Calories
1 tablespoon	14 g	100 kcal
1 teaspoon	5 g	36 kcal

4/10

Use sparingly, as it is high in fats and calories, but can be a suitable alternative to butter in moderation.

Is margarine healthier than butter?: Margarine can be lower in saturated fats than butter but may contain trans fats which are harmful.
Can margarine be used for baking?: Yes, margarine can replace butter in baking, but the texture and flavor may vary.
Does margarine contain dairy?: Most margarine is dairy-free, but some varieties may contain milk products, so check the labels.

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