What is more fattening, cooking with butter or oil?

Although the butter and oil they share uses in the kitchen, they are not the same. Both are frequently used to season and prepare foods, as they provide a distinctive flavor and help facilitate the cooking process. However, There are important differences in their composition, flavor, caloric intake and nutritional value.

Both butter and oil They are used to add a special touch of flavor and texture to foods. One of their most common uses is as a cooking base, as they allow ingredients to be easily browned or sautéed. They are also key to preventing food from sticking to cookware, such as pans or baking dishes.

What is the difference between butter and oil?

The number of calories per tablespoon varies depending on the type of butter or oil used. Below, we share a table with calorie estimates, based on data from the MyFitnessPal platform:

Type of oil	Calories
Olive oil	119
Vegetable oil	120
Avocado oil	40

Type of butter	Calories
Butter	27
Salted butter	100
Sweet Cream Butter	100

Read also: What is Tequesquite and what is it used for? Is it healthier to fry with oil or butter?

According to the medical portal MedlinePlus, butter and other products derived from animal fats may result harmful for health if consumed in excess. In particular, it is recommended to avoid margarines and hydrogenated ingredients due to their high trans fat content, which is associated with cardiovascular disease.

Instead, it is suggested to opt for vegetable oils, especially those extracted from seeds such as olive oil or avocado oil.

Specialist Mariana Isabel Valdés Moreno, in an interview for UNAM Global, agrees with this recommendation:

"The difference in their composition is what gives them advantages or disadvantages compared to other products. The healthiest ones would be the oils," he noted.

Both oil and butter have an important place in the kitchen. However, if you are looking for a healthier alternative, l vegetable oils —especially olive or avocado —turn out to be the best option.