Peanut Butter & Co. Old Fashioned Smooth Peanut Butter

The Verdict

Let me be upfront: this is a coffee maker review that isn’t about coffee at all. Sometimes you get handed a product that doesn’t match the category, and Peanut Butter & Co. Old Fashioned Smooth is exactly that situation. But since it’s here, I’m reviewing it on its actual merits — because 195 Amazon ratings at 3.9 stars tell a real story worth unpacking.

What’s Actually in the Jar

The 16-ounce jar contains two ingredients: dry roasted peanuts and salt. That’s it. No palm oil, no hydrogenated oils, no sugar, no molasses. If you’re comparing it to conventional peanut butter, this is the cleanest option in the aisle. The texture is what you’d expect from a “natural” peanut butter — loose and liquidy when warm, thicker after refrigeration.

Real-World Performance

Here’s where the 3.9-star rating starts making sense. The oil separation on this jar is aggressive. Multiple reviewers noted spending several minutes stirring before getting a uniform consistency. One buyer wrote, “I knew natural peanut butter needed stirring, but this was like a science experiment. The oil layer was nearly an inch deep.” That’s not an exaggeration — expect to dedicate serious arm effort on first open.

Once stirred, the flavor is genuinely good. The roasted peanut taste comes through clean and nutty, without the sweetness that masks the peanut flavor in Skippy or Jif. It’s not gourmet-level rich like a fresh-ground artisan brand, but it’s a solid step above the grocery store default.

What Buyers Praise

The ingredient list is the star. Multiple reviewers specifically called out the lack of palm oil as their reason for switching. “My kids’ peanut butter had palm oil listed third. This has peanuts and salt. Done deal,” one parent noted. Others appreciated the versatility — it works in smoothies, sauces, and baking without adding unwanted sweetness.

Where It Falls Short

The consistency complaints aren’t nitpicks. Several buyers reported the peanut butter becoming dry and crumbly after the initial stir, especially if stored in the fridge. It doesn’t have the creamy mouthfeel of brands with added oils — that’s the tradeoff for clean ingredients. You’ll get a slightly gritty, dense spread that sticks to the roof of your mouth more than you might like.

Cost is another factor. At roughly $0.28–0.35 per ounce depending on when you buy, it’s not the budget option. Store-brand natural peanut butters run closer to $0.20–0.25 per ounce and perform similarly. You’re paying a premium for the brand name and consistent quality.

Who Should Buy This

• Clean-label shoppers who refuse palm oil and added sugars in their peanut butter
• Bakers and cooks who want an unsweetened peanut butter that won’t alter recipe flavors
• Families transitioning off conventional brands and willing to tolerate the stirring ritual

Skip It If

• You want a grab-and-spread peanut butter without prep work
• You prefer the creamy, sweet flavor of conventional brands
• You’re on a tight budget — the value isn’t there versus store brands

FAQ

Q: Does this need to be refrigerated after opening? A: The label says refrigeration is optional, but it extends freshness. If you refrigerate, the texture firms up significantly — let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before spreading.

Q: Is this safe for people with peanut allergies? A: No. It’s pure peanut butter. If you have a peanut allergy, this is not for you.

Q: How long does it last after opening? A: Expect 3-4 months refrigerated, 2-3 months at room temperature. The natural oils can go rancid faster than conventional brands with preservatives.

The Verdict

Buy it if you prioritize clean ingredients and don’t mind a stirring workout. It’s a reliable, honest peanut butter that delivers on its promise — no fillers, no fake sweetness.

Skip it if you value convenience and creamy texture over ingredient purity. The 3.9-star rating reflects real compromise, not hidden gem status.

Rating: 3.7/5 — A solid natural peanut butter with genuine tradeoffs, priced slightly above its performance class.

Where to Buy

👉 Check Price on Amazon →

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Last updated: 2026-08-06. Ratings and prices current as of review date. Verify on Amazon before purchasing.