Worried about peanut butter? Try these spreads

While there’s really no substitute for peanut butter, the salmonella scare got us thinking: What if we were forced to give it up?

Right up front, it’s worth noting that the national recall on peanut butter and peanut paste products has not affected name brand jars of peanut butter sold in groceries. You’re safe to keep using Skippy for the time being.

But what if you weren’t? Could you turn to Nutella? Maybe. Marmite? Um, probably not.

Here’s a look at three spreadable substitutes.

Nutella: The United States started importing this Italian product in 1983, introducing a wider swath of Americans to the smooth blend of chocolate and hazelnut. Try it on croissants. Then thank us.

Hummus: Whereas peanut butter is sweet and savory, hummus is mainly just savory. Still, it wins our glowing endorsement. Hummus comes in multiple flavors — garlic, roasted red pepper, black bean — and basically every area grocery carries it. Plus, it’s great on crackers.

Marmite: Before the Australians made Vegemite, the British created Marmite. Ever since, people have asked, “Why, God, why?” Locally sold at Central Market, Marmite is made using spiced brewer’s yeast. It doesn’t work as a peanut butter alternative. Ever.

Andy Rathbun, 425-339-3455

arathbun@heraldnet.com