Blanched almonds have had their brown skin removed, therefore the color of the butter made with these almonds is different than the standard almond butter. The texture is a bit smoother, the taste is slightly different but just as delicious.

Both almond butters made from blanched and unblanched almonds are very nutrient dense, offering a good source of fiber, heart-healthy fats, protein, riboflavin, niacin and especially vitamin E. Just one serving provides 24% DV * of vitamin E. This is an antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage and promotes healthy skin and hair.

The benefit of consuming blanched almond butter is that it contains no phytic acid and may be easier to digest .

Why make butter from blanched almonds?

Many people are concerned about the anti-nutrient content of almonds and their possible negative effects on the body. Phytic acid is the anti-nutrient that has obtained a poor reputation and is specifically known for inhibiting absorption of iron, zinc, and, calcium as well as magnesium and copper. The good news is that it's hardly present in blanched almonds as it primarily resides in the skin of the almond. If you are concerned about phytic acid, you have the option of choosing blanched almond butter instead of whole unblanched almond butter.

Nutritionally, butter made from whole unblanched almonds versus blanched almonds is similar as you can see from the comparison chart below.

The calorie and protein content is practically the same. The vitamin and mineral content vary slightly. Both iron and calcium are nutrients of concern. There is a slightly difference with the vitamin E, B2, and manganese content between blanched and unblanched almonds, but it's not significant since they both are great sources of these nutrients.

Since the skins are mostly fiber which is a type of carbohydrate, the content in blanched almond butter is lower. 

What else makes up the fibrous skin of almonds?

The almond's skin contains powerful antioxidants such as Catechin and Epicatechin. These are polyphenols that protect your cells from toxic oxidative stress. Flavonoids, a family of beneficial nutrients, live in the skin of almonds as well, they have antimicrobial properties and play a role in fighting disease.

Phytic acid, the anti-nutrient that has gotten such a bad wrap is also mostly concentrated in the skin. Most people don't know that it also has antioxidant activity that is beneficial for our body. 

The downside is that you will be missing out on the beneficial polyphenols, but of course, you may get these from other sources. It's one of those give and take situations. Depending on your needs this may be a better option for you, especially if You have a sensitive gut. Give it a try, you may like it more than the traditional almond butter!