Hello! I'm a food scientist with expertise in food allergies and ingredient analysis. I can definitely help you understand whether peanut butter is dairy-free.

The simple answer is yes, **peanut butter is generally considered dairy-free**. This is because peanuts are legumes, not dairy products. However, it's always important to check the label carefully for any potential cross-contamination or added ingredients that could contain dairy.

Here's a more detailed explanation:

* Peanut Butter Ingredients: The primary ingredient in peanut butter is peanuts, which are legumes. Legumes are a type of plant-based protein source that is naturally dairy-free. Peanut butter may also contain other ingredients, such as:
* Oil: Usually peanut oil or vegetable oil, which are both dairy-free.
* Salt: A common seasoning that's always dairy-free.
* Sugar: Usually added in small amounts, and generally considered dairy-free.
* Other Additives: Some peanut butters may contain additional ingredients like honey, molasses, or flavorings. These ingredients can sometimes be derived from dairy, so it's important to check the label carefully.

* Cross-Contamination Concerns: While peanut butter itself is dairy-free, there's a possibility of cross-contamination during manufacturing. If the same equipment is used to process dairy products and peanut butter, there could be a small risk of dairy residues. For individuals with severe dairy allergies, it's best to choose peanut butter brands that are specifically labeled as "dairy-free" to minimize this risk.

* Reading Food Labels: Always read the ingredient list carefully on any peanut butter product you purchase. Look for any mention of dairy ingredients such as:
* Milk
* Whey
* Casein
* Lactose
* Butter
* Cheese
* Yogurt
* Cream

* Contacting Manufacturers: If you have any concerns about potential cross-contamination or specific ingredients, it's always best to contact the manufacturer directly. They can provide you with detailed information about their production processes and ingredient sourcing.

In Summary:

* Peanut butter is naturally dairy-free because peanuts are legumes.
* However, it's essential to check labels for any potential dairy-containing ingredients or cross-contamination concerns.
* For individuals with severe dairy allergies, choose brands labeled as "dairy-free" or contact the manufacturer for further details.

I hope this information has been helpful! If you have any further questions about peanut butter or other food allergies, feel free to ask.
read more >>

A Lactose-Free Food. Despite the name, peanut butter does not contain any dairy butter. Also, peanuts, being nondairy products, don't contain any lactose themselves. Most natural peanut butter is safe to eat if you're lactose-intolerant.read more >>