Butter vs Olive Oil: Nutrition Comparison
Butter and olive oil are the two most common cooking fats in Western cuisine, and their nutritional profiles reflect their very different origins. Both are calorie-dense, but the type of fat differs dramatically. Butter is high in saturated fat, which has been associated with raised LDL cholesterol at high intake levels. Olive oil — particularly extra virgin — is rich in monounsaturated fats and polyphenol antioxidants linked to cardiovascular health benefits. For cooking at moderate temperatures and dressings, olive oil is widely considered the heart-healthier choice. Butter remains valuable for baking and flavour, and small amounts in an otherwise balanced diet are not a significant concern.
Nutrition Comparison
| Nutrient |
1 Serving (14.0g)
|
15.0ml
|
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 100 kcal | 120 kcal |
| Total Fat | 11 g | 14 g |
| Saturated Fat | 7 g | 2 g |
| Cholesterol | 30 mg | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 90 mg | 0 mg |
| Total Carbs | 0 g | 0 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0 g | 0 g |
| Sugars | 0 g | 0 g |
| Protein | 0 g | 0 g |
* Nutrition data sourced from the USDA Food Central Database. Values marked with * have been normalized to match the larger serving size for a fair comparison. Individual products may vary.
Full Nutrition Details
See the complete nutrition breakdown for each food individually, including vitamins and minerals.