Bettergoods Spread

From Skeptic to Superfan: My Journey with the Spread That Changed Everything

As I sit here at my kitchen counter, spreading a generous dollop of Cinnamon Apple Bettergoods on my warm sourdough toast, I can’t help but reflect on how this unassuming jar has completely revolutionized my morning routine. Three years ago, I wouldn’t have given a second glance to yet another spread claiming to be “different” from everything else on the market. But here I am, a dedicated convert with a pantry shelf specifically designated for my growing collection of Bettergoods varieties.

Let me take you on a journey through everything you need to know about this remarkable plant-based spread that’s taking the culinary world by storm. Whether you’re a curious first-timer or a spread enthusiast looking to expand your horizons, this comprehensive guide will answer all your questions and perhaps inspire you to join the Bettergoods movement.

What Exactly Is Bettergoods Spread?

Before diving into where to buy it or which flavors might tantalize your taste buds, let’s establish what makes Bettergoods Spread unique in the first place.

Bettergoods Spread emerged on the market in 2019 as an innovative alternative to traditional butter and conventional nut-based spreads. The company was founded by Mia Chen, a nutritionist who became frustrated with the lack of truly wholesome, minimally processed spreads available to consumers. After two years of experimentation in her home kitchen, the first Bettergoods Spread was born – a creamy, versatile concoction that delivers on both flavor and nutrition.

At its core, Bettergoods is a plant-based spread made from a proprietary blend of seeds, legumes, and whole food ingredients. Unlike many competitors that rely heavily on oils, sugars, and preservatives, Bettergoods prides itself on creating products with clean ingredient lists where you can recognize and pronounce every component.

The texture is what first won me over – somehow managing to be simultaneously creamy and substantial, spreading easily without running or separating. It’s this perfect consistency that makes it so versatile, working as everything from a toast topper to a cooking ingredient.

Where Can You Find This Culinary Gem?

When I first discovered Bettergoods in 2022, it was only available at select specialty stores and through their direct-to-consumer website. Fast forward to 2025, and the availability has expanded dramatically, making it much more accessible to curious food lovers everywhere.

Retail Locations:

• Natural Food Stores: Whole Foods Market, Sprouts, and Natural Grocers all carry various selections of Bettergoods Spread nationwide.
• Major Supermarkets: In the past year, Bettergoods has expanded to mainstream grocery chains including Kroger, Safeway, and Target, though selection may vary by location.
• Co-ops and Independent Health Food Stores: These often carry the full range, including limited edition flavors.
• Farmers Markets: In certain regions, Bettergoods operates booths at weekend farmers markets, offering samples and special market-only varieties.

Online Options:

• Official Bettergoods Website: The most comprehensive selection, often featuring exclusive flavors and bundle deals.
• Amazon: A good selection of their core flavors with Prime shipping available.
• Thrive Market: Usually offers the core collection at slightly discounted prices for members.
• Specialty Food Retailers: Sites like Mouth.com and Goldbelly occasionally feature Bettergoods in their artisanal food selections.

I’ve found that the official website often has the freshest stock and the best deals if you’re willing to buy in bulk (which, trust me, you’ll want to once you get hooked). They offer a subscription service that saves you 15% and ensures you never run out of your favorite flavors – a service I’ve been happily using for the past year.

A Symphony of Flavors: Varieties to Tempt Every Palate

One of the most impressive aspects of Bettergoods is their commitment to creating interesting, complex flavor profiles that go far beyond the typical offerings in the spread aisle. Their product line has expanded considerably since their launch, and now includes over 15 distinct varieties.

Core Collection:

• Classic Creamy: Their original flagship product – neutral, versatile, and perfect for both sweet and savory applications.
• Roasted Garlic & Herb: My personal favorite for elevating simple dishes – spectacular on crusty bread or stirred into pasta.
• Maple Cinnamon: A breakfast game-changer that makes ordinary toast extraordinary.
• Dark Chocolate: Surprisingly not too sweet, with deep cocoa notes that satisfy chocolate cravings without the sugar crash.
• Spicy Jalapeño: Brings just enough heat to wake up your taste buds without overwhelming them.
• Toasted Coconut: Tropical and slightly sweet, it’s like vacation in a jar.

Seasonal Specialties:

• Spring: Meyer Lemon & Lavender (March-May)
• Summer: Strawberry Basil and Grilled Peach (June-August)
• Fall: Cinnamon Apple and Pumpkin Pie (September-November)
• Winter: Gingerbread and Cranberry Orange (December-February)

Limited Edition Collaborations:

Bettergoods occasionally partners with chefs and food artisans to create special edition flavors. Last year’s collaboration with award-winning chef Nina Rodriguez produced an unforgettable Smoked Paprika & Roasted Red Pepper spread that sold out within weeks.

I strongly recommend trying at least one variety from each of these categories to truly appreciate the range and creativity behind the Bettergoods brand. If you’re new to the product line, the Classic Creamy is an excellent entry point that showcases the base texture and quality without additional flavors.

The Clean Food Promise: Ingredients & Quality Standards

In a world where food labels often require a chemistry degree to decipher, Bettergoods stands out for its refreshingly straightforward approach to ingredients. The company’s commitment to whole food ingredients is what truly sets them apart in the crowded spread market.

Ingredients Philosophy:

Bettergoods follows a strict “nothing artificial, ever” policy. This means:

• No artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives
• No hydrogenated oils or trans fats
• No fillers or unnecessary additives
• No excessive processing methods that strip nutrients

The base ingredients across most varieties include some combination of:

• Sprouted sunflower seeds
• Chickpeas
• Coconut butter (not oil)
• Chia seeds
• Golden flaxseeds
• Unrefined sea salt

Additional ingredients vary by flavor but remain true to the whole food philosophy. For example, the Maple Cinnamon contains real maple syrup and freshly ground cinnamon rather than flavoring agents.

Certifications & Standards:

• USDA Organic: All Bettergoods products carry this certification, ensuring ingredients are grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers.
• Non-GMO Project Verified: Independent verification that ingredients haven’t been genetically modified.
• Certified Gluten-Free: Tested to contain less than 10 parts per million of gluten.
• Certified Vegan: Contains no animal products or byproducts and uses no animal testing.
• B Corp Certification: Recognizes Bettergoods’ commitment to social and environmental performance, transparency, and accountability.

When I first started reading food labels more carefully a few years ago, I was shocked by how many “natural” products contained bizarre additives and preservatives. Bettergoods was a breath of fresh air – I could actually understand every ingredient without Googling.

Sweet Concerns: The Sugar Question

For those watching their sugar intake (aren’t we all these days?), you’ll be pleased to know that Bettergoods takes a measured approach to sweetness. Their savory varieties contain no added sugars whatsoever, while their sweet varieties use minimal amounts of natural sweeteners like maple syrup, date paste, or coconut sugar.

To put this in perspective, most commercial chocolate spreads contain 10-12 grams of sugar per serving, while Bettergoods Dark Chocolate contains just 3 grams – and it’s all from date paste, not refined sugar. Even their sweetest seasonal varieties rarely exceed 5 grams of sugar per serving.

This moderate approach to sweetness allows the natural flavors of the ingredients to shine through, creating a more sophisticated taste experience that doesn’t leave you with sugar cravings an hour later – something I’ve particularly appreciated as I’ve tried to reduce my sugar intake.

Dietary Considerations: Inclusions and Exclusions

One of Bettergoods’ strengths is its accessibility to people with various dietary restrictions. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know:

Vegan-Friendly:

All Bettergoods Spreads are 100% plant-based, containing no animal products or byproducts. This makes them suitable for vegans and those looking to reduce animal product consumption.

Gluten Concerns:

Good news for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity – all varieties are certified gluten-free. Their production facility is dedicated gluten-free, eliminating cross-contamination risks.

Nut Allergies:

This is where Bettergoods truly shines for many consumers. Unlike many alternative spreads that rely heavily on nuts like almonds or cashews, Bettergoods’ core formula is entirely nut-free, using seeds and legumes instead. This makes it a safe option for those with nut allergies who still want a creamy, versatile spread.

There is one exception: the Toasted Coconut variety contains coconut, which some allergists classify as a tree nut (though technically it’s a fruit). The company clearly labels this on the packaging for those with severe allergies.

Other Allergens:

All products are free from the major allergens including dairy, eggs, soy, and wheat. Some varieties do contain sesame in the form of tahini, which is clearly indicated on the label.

As someone who has several friends with complex dietary restrictions, I’ve found Bettergoods to be my go-to option when preparing food for gatherings. It’s rare to find a product that works for so many different dietary needs without compromising on taste.

The Price Point: Value Consideration

Let’s address the elephant in the room – Bettergoods Spread is not the cheapest option on the market. With standard 8-oz jars retailing between $7.99-$9.99 depending on the variety and location, it’s definitely positioned as a premium product.

Here’s how the pricing typically breaks down:

• Standard 8-oz jars: $7.99-$9.99
• 4-oz mini jars: $4.99-$5.99 (great for trying new flavors)
• 16-oz family size: $13.99-$15.99 (best value per ounce)
• Seasonal varieties: Usually $1-2 more than core flavors
• Limited edition collaborations: $11.99-$13.99

Is it worth the premium price? In my experience, absolutely. The concentration of nutrient-dense ingredients means a little goes a long way – you don’t need to slather it on as generously as you might with cheaper alternatives. The jars last me significantly longer than conventional spreads, making the cost per serving more reasonable than it initially appears.

For budget-conscious shoppers, I recommend these strategies:

1. Subscribe on the Bettergoods website to save 15%
2. Look for in-store promotions at Whole Foods and other retailers, which happen regularly
3. Buy the larger family-size jars for frequently used flavors
4. Check their social media for seasonal sales and promotions

I consider Bettergoods an investment in both flavor and nutrition – and one that’s worth making room for in my grocery budget.

Storage and Shelf Life: Maximizing Freshness

Unlike many conventional spreads laden with preservatives, Bettergoods takes a more natural approach, which does affect how you’ll need to store and use the product.

Refrigeration Requirements:

• Unopened jars: Can be stored in a cool, dry pantry for up to 6 months.
• After opening: Refrigeration is required to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage.

Shelf Life:

• Unopened: 6-8 months from production date (clearly stamped on the bottom of each jar)
• After opening: 1-2 months when properly refrigerated

Storage Tips:

1. Always use a clean utensil when scooping from the jar to prevent introducing bacteria
2. Press parchment paper directly onto the surface before replacing the lid to minimize air exposure
3. Store jars upside down in the refrigerator to create a natural seal
4. Let the spread come to room temperature for 10-15 minutes before using for the best texture and flavor

I’ve found that Bettergoods develops a slightly firmer texture when chilled, but it returns to its perfect consistency after just a few minutes at room temperature. Unlike some natural nut butters that separate, Bettergoods maintains its emulsion beautifully throughout its shelf life – a significant advantage for those of us who hate having to stir our spreads.

Nutritional Powerhouse: Health Benefits Beyond Taste

While I initially fell in love with Bettergoods for its flavor, I’ve stayed loyal to the brand for its impressive nutritional profile. The company’s nutritionist founder ensured that these spreads would deliver substantive health benefits along with their delicious taste.

Key Nutritional Highlights:

• Protein: 3-5g per serving, which is significant for a spread
• Fiber: 2-4g per serving from whole food sources like chia and flax
• Healthy Fats: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids from seeds
• Vitamins: Particularly good source of vitamin E and B vitamins
• Minerals: Contains magnesium, zinc, and iron from the seed and legume base

Functional Benefits:

• Sustained Energy: The balanced combination of protein, fiber, and healthy fats provides longer-lasting energy without crashes.
• Digestive Health: The fiber content supports gut health and regular digestion.
• Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Many of the base ingredients like flaxseeds have natural anti-inflammatory compounds.
• Heart Health: The omega-3 fatty acids and absence of trans fats support cardiovascular health.

Unlike many spreads that are essentially “empty calories,” Bettergoods actually contributes meaningful nutrition to your diet. I’ve found it particularly valuable as part of my post-workout recovery snacks, where the protein and healthy fats help support muscle repair and satiety.

Beyond the Bread: Creative Culinary Applications

While Bettergoods excels as a simple spread on toast or crackers, limiting it to this role would be doing it a tremendous disservice. The product’s stable texture and clean flavor profiles make it extraordinarily versatile in the kitchen.

Cooking Applications:

• Pasta Sauce Base: The Roasted Garlic & Herb variety makes an instant creamy pasta sauce when thinned with a bit of pasta water
• Soup Enricher: Stir into vegetable soups for added creaminess and protein
• Marinade Component: Mix with citrus juice and herbs for a flavorful marinade for tofu or vegetables
• Stir-Fry Finisher: Add a dollop to finished stir-fries for richness without dairy
• Dip Base: Blend with yogurt or plant-based alternatives for instant dips

Baking Uses:

• Cookie Dough: Replace part or all of the butter in cookie recipes
• Frosting Foundation: The Chocolate variety can be whipped with powdered sugar for a healthier frosting
• Brownie Enricher: Swirl into brownie batter before baking
• Muffin Moisture: Add to muffin batters for moisture and nutrient density
• Pie Crust Alternative: Combined with oats for a no-bake pie crust

Breakfast Beyond Toast:

• Oatmeal Topper: Melt a spoonful into hot oatmeal
• Smoothie Booster: Add a tablespoon to smoothies for creaminess and staying power
• Pancake Spread: Use instead of butter between pancake layers
• Yogurt Mix-In: Swirl into plain yogurt with fresh fruit

I’ve become particularly fond of using the Classic Creamy variety as a base for quick salad dressings – whisked with lemon juice, a touch of maple syrup, and fresh herbs, it creates a creamy dressing without the heaviness of conventional options.

Packaging with Purpose: Sustainability Commitment

In an era where packaging waste has become a major environmental concern, Bettergoods has taken significant steps to minimize their ecological footprint while maintaining product integrity.

Current Packaging:

• Jars: Made from recycled glass that is fully recyclable
• Lids: Metal lids with BPA-free liners, also recyclable
• Labels: Printed with vegetable-based inks on recycled paper
• Shipping Materials: When ordering online, products arrive in compostable or recyclable padding

Sustainability Initiatives:

Bettergoods has launched several programs to further their environmental commitment:

1. Jar Return Program: At select retailers, you can return empty jars for a $0.50 discount on your next purchase
2. Carbon-Neutral Shipping: All direct-to-consumer orders ship with carbon offsets
3. Solar-Powered Production: Their main production facility operates primarily on solar power
4. Water Conservation: Advanced water recycling systems in their processing plants

While no packaged food product can claim zero environmental impact, Bettergoods demonstrates a genuine commitment to minimizing harm. Their 2024 Sustainability Report (available on their website) outlines ambitious goals for further improvements, including a pilot program for compostable packaging options.

The glass jars have become a staple in my home for food storage after the spread is gone – I particularly like using them for homemade salad dressings and overnight oats.

The Taste Test: Customer Experiences and Reviews

No buying guide would be complete without addressing what real customers think about the product. Based on my extensive research (and personal obsession), here’s a synthesis of customer sentiment across various platforms:

Praise Points:

• Texture Consistency: Overwhelmingly positive feedback about the smooth, non-separating texture
• Flavor Complexity: Many reviewers note that the flavors are more sophisticated and less one-dimensional than competitors
• Digestibility: Customers with sensitive digestion report fewer issues compared to nut-based alternatives
• Versatility: High marks for performance across different culinary applications
• Clean Ingredient List: Frequently mentioned as a key selling point

Common Criticisms:

• Price Point: The most common negative comment relates to cost
• Limited Availability: Some customers in rural areas still struggle to find the product locally
• Refrigeration Requirement: Occasional complaints about needing refrigeration after opening
• Firmness When Cold: Some note that the texture is too firm straight from the refrigerator

The overall sentiment across platforms like Amazon, the Bettergoods website, and social media is impressively positive, with average ratings typically between 4.6-4.8 out of 5 stars. The Dark Chocolate and Roasted Garlic & Herb varieties consistently rank as fan favorites based on review frequency and enthusiasm.

My personal experience aligns with the majority of these reviews. The only criticism I’d add is that occasionally the seasonal varieties can be inconsistent in texture compared to the core collection – though this has improved in recent production runs.

The Competition: How Bettergoods Stacks Up

The specialty spread market has exploded in recent years, giving consumers more choices than ever. Here’s how Bettergoods compares to other popular options:

Vs. Traditional Nut Butters (Almond, Cashew):

• Advantages: Allergen-friendly, generally higher in protein, more diverse flavor options
• Disadvantages: Higher price point, requires refrigeration

Vs. Conventional Chocolate-Hazelnut Spreads:

• Advantages: Significantly lower sugar content, no palm oil, more nutritious
• Disadvantages: Less intensely sweet, slightly different texture

Vs. Coconut-Based Spreads:

• Advantages: Higher protein content, more versatile for savory applications
• Disadvantages: Typically more expensive

Vs. Seed Butters (Sunflower, Pumpkin):

• Advantages: More complex flavor profiles, smoother texture, no separation
• Disadvantages: Higher price per ounce, smaller container sizes

What truly distinguishes Bettergoods in this competitive landscape is its unique formulation that combines multiple plant-based ingredients rather than relying on a single base. This creates a more balanced nutritional profile and a texture that many find superior to single-ingredient alternatives.

Size Options: Finding Your Perfect Fit

Bettergoods offers several size options to accommodate different households and usage patterns:

Mini Jars (4 oz):

• Best for: Trying new flavors, travel, single-person households
• Price range: $4.99-$5.99
• Availability: Primarily on the official website and in specialty sampler packs

Standard Jars (8 oz):

• Best for: Regular use, most households
• Price range: $7.99-$9.99
• Availability: Widely available at most retailers carrying the brand

Family Size (16 oz):

• Best for: Large households, frequent users, best value per ounce
• Price range: $13.99-$15.99
• Availability: Select retailers and online

Limited Edition Gift Sets:

• Best for: Gifting, sampling multiple flavors
• Price range: $24.99-$39.99 depending on the set
• Availability: Seasonal at major retailers, year-round on the official website

Bulk Foodservice Tubs (32 oz):

• Best for: Small businesses, very large families
• Price range: $24.99-$29.99
• Availability: Official website only, with minimum order requirements

I typically keep a family-size jar of my everyday favorite (Classic Creamy) and rotate through standard-size jars of seasonal flavors. The mini jars make excellent additions to gift baskets or care packages – I’ve converted several friends to Bettergoods fans this way.

Saving Strategies: Promotions and Discounts

While Bettergoods positions itself as a premium product, there are several ways to make it more affordable:

Regular Promotions:

• Subscription Savings: 15% off and free shipping on recurring orders through their website
• Seasonal Sales: 20-25% discounts during major holiday periods
• New Customer Discount: First-time buyers can typically save 10% by signing up for the newsletter
• Bundle Pricing: “Build Your Own Bundle” options on the website offer incremental discounts based on quantity

Loyalty Program:

The “Better Rewards” program offers points for purchases, social media engagement, and referrals. Points can be redeemed for discounts, exclusive flavors, or branded merchandise.

Partner Promotions:

Bettergoods frequently collaborates with complementary brands for cross-promotions. Recent examples include bundle deals with artisanal bread companies and specialty cracker makers.

In-Store Promotions:

Retailers like Whole Foods frequently feature Bettergoods in their weekly sales, particularly when new seasonal flavors launch.

I’ve found that combining a subscription (which can be adjusted or paused at any time) with strategic bulk purchases during major sales events like their anniversary in April and Black Friday in November helps me keep my Bettergoods habit reasonably affordable.

Ethical Consumption: The Company Behind the Product

For many conscious consumers, the company behind a product matters as much as the product itself. Bettergoods has built a reputation for ethical business practices that extend beyond their ingredient sourcing.

B Corp Certification:

As a certified B Corporation, Bettergoods has undergone rigorous assessment of their social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency.

Sourcing Practices:

• Ingredient Transparency: Complete supply chain transparency with origin information available on their website
• Fair Trade Partnerships: All chocolate, vanilla, and coffee ingredients are Fair Trade certified
• Regenerative Agriculture Support: Partnerships with farms transitioning to regenerative practices

Labor Practices:

• Living Wage Commitment: All employees, including production staff, earn at least 25% above local living wage standards
• Benefits Package: Comprehensive healthcare, paid family leave, and educational stipends for all full-time employees
• Worker Ownership: Employees participate in a profit-sharing program and have representation on the board

Community Engagement:

• Food Security Initiatives: For every jar sold, Bettergoods donates to food banks and community gardens in underserved areas
• Nutrition Education: Free workshops and educational materials for schools and community organizations
• Incubator Program: Support for BIPOC food entrepreneurs through mentorship and resource sharing

These ethical commitments come at a cost, which partially explains the premium pricing of Bettergoods products. For consumers who value voting with their dollars for a more equitable food system, this additional investment may feel entirely worthwhile.

Final Verdict: Is Bettergoods Worth It?

After diving deep into every aspect of Bettergoods Spread – from ingredients to ethics to culinary applications – the question remains: Is it worth adding to your shopping cart?

In my experience, the answer is an enthusiastic yes, with a few qualifications:

Bettergoods is likely worth it for you if:

• You value clean, recognizable ingredients
• You have dietary restrictions like nut allergies or gluten sensitivity
• You appreciate culinary versatility in your pantry staples
• You’re willing to invest a bit more for products that align with your values
• You enjoy complex, interesting flavors rather than one-dimensional sweetness

You might want to look elsewhere if:

• You’re on a very tight budget with no flexibility
• You strongly prefer the distinct taste of pure nut butters
• You need spreads that don’t require refrigeration after opening
• You prefer intensely sweet spreads similar to conventional chocolate-hazelnut options

For me, discovering Bettergoods was a turning point in how I think about everyday staples. What began as a curious purchase has evolved into a pantry essential that I genuinely look forward to using. The versatility, nutrition, and ethical production align perfectly with my values, making the premium price a worthwhile investment in both my culinary enjoyment and my health.

If you haven’t tried Bettergoods yet, I recommend starting with their Classic Creamy variety to experience the base product, then exploring their flavor range based on your personal preferences. The moment you taste the difference that whole food ingredients and thoughtful formulation make, you’ll understand why this remarkable spread has developed such a devoted following.

Here’s to better food, better choices, and the simple joy of spreading something truly exceptional on your morning toast.