Finding the perfect spread can feel like a quest. Between the big-name brands dominating the aisle and a growing desire for healthier, more transparent products, it's easy to get lost. If your idea of a great spread means palm oil-free, intense flavour, and an impeccable ingredient list, you've come to the right place.
As a Section Editor and product tester for our publication, my mission is to guide you. Let's look past the marketing slogans and break down the labels together so you can make an informed choice. The result is our curated selection of the best spreads that truly deliver on their promises.
Before you indulge, there are a few key indicators to look for to judge a jar's quality. Here are the three criteria to scan for on the label.
This is the star ingredient—the one that gives the spread its character. A spread rich in hazelnuts promises a deep, authentic flavour.
A golden rule: the shorter the list, the better. The first ingredient listed is always the most abundant. Ideally, hazelnuts should be listed first, or right after sugar. Also, pay attention to the type of fat used: rapeseed or sunflower oils are the healthiest and most common alternatives to palm oil.
Opting for a spread made in France is an excellent move. It not only supports the local economy but also often guarantees traditional expertise and recipes crafted with passion, like those from the house of Lucien Georgelin.
To help you find a true gem, here are a few products that really stand out in the market.
The Editor's Verdict: Its ingredient list is simply stunning. With 40% Lot-et-Garonne hazelnuts, this spread puts the nut front and centre. Guaranteed palm oil-free, it uses rapeseed oil for a perfectly smooth texture. It's the ultimate alternative to Nutella for anyone who prioritises flavour above all else.
Highlights:
Who is it for?: For flavour purists who demand quality and a genuine, rich hazelnut taste.
The Editor's Verdict: This gift set is a true invitation to a flavour journey. It allows you to explore several creations from Lucien Georgelin in tasting-size jars, from the classic hazelnut-cocoa to more adventurous variations like pistachio-white chocolate. All of them, of course, are palm oil-free.
Highlights:
Who is it for?: For flavour explorers, the chronically indecisive, or for anyone looking for a unique gourmet gift.
The Editor's Verdict: It's the absolute benchmark that everyone knows. The recipe is unchanging: sugar is the first ingredient, closely followed by palm oil, with 13% hazelnuts.
Highlights:
Who is it for?: For die-hard fans of its unique taste, for whom the ingredients (palm oil, sugar first) are not the number one priority.
This selection is just a starting point. The world of spreads is an endless playground, with creations made from almonds, pistachios, or cashews just waiting to be discovered.
To explore our full range of high-quality, artisanal products, take a look at our Nut Spreads category.
Two main reasons drive this choice: environmental and health concerns. On one hand, the intensive cultivation of oil palms is a major cause of deforestation. On the other, from a nutritional standpoint, palm oil is very high in saturated fatty acids, the consumption of which should be limited.
A premium spread reveals its quality on its label. Check for three things:
The word "artisanal" isn't an official certification, but it often signals more meticulous production focused on the quality of the ingredients. An artisanal spread is therefore very likely to tick all the right boxes: a higher nut content, a simpler recipe, and a more authentic taste that's far from industrial standards.