Margarine is a spread made mainly from vegetable oils with added ingredients, which places it in NOVA group 4. It is high in fat, so a little goes a long way. It is a source of vitamin D and vitamin A. Work out the numbers for any portion and age below, then see the full breakdown.
The numbers that matter most here are protein, saturated fat and salt. The tables below set each against age-appropriate guidance.
A thin spread (10g) provides about 0.0g of protein, supplying amino acids the body needs for growth and repair. Because children need less than adults, that portion covers a large share of a younger child's daily protein.
Margarine is naturally high in fat, at about 8.0g per portion, though most of it is unsaturated. Only around 2.0g is saturated and there is 0g of added fat.
Percentages are share of the daily Nutrient Reference Value (NRV). Under UK and EU rules a food is a source of a nutrient at 15% NRV per 100g and high in it at 30%.
These tables show how the nutrients compare to daily needs across different ages, using UK Reference Nutrient Intakes (RNIs). This differs from the source of and high in labels above, which use the single adult figure (NRV) set for food packaging. Children's needs are lower, so a portion goes further.
Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium for strong bones; oily fish is one of the few natural food sources. A thin spread (10g) contains 1ug. Because children need less than adults, that same portion covers a bigger share of a younger child's daily target.
Vitamin A supports vision, healthy skin and the immune system. A thin spread (10g) contains 80ug. Because children need less than adults, that same portion covers a bigger share of a younger child's daily target.
Yes. Margarine is a processed dairy product, blended with added salt and other ingredients, which places it in NOVA group 4. A block of plain cheese or a tub of plain butter is far less processed.
Nutrition data from McCance and Widdowson and UK FoodData Central, per 100g raw edible portion; values are reference figures and can vary by variety and ripeness. Reference intakes: EU NRVs for labelling and UK RNIs (SACN) for age-based needs. For guidance only.