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Sep 19, 2023

Does Culver's Use Seed Oils?

As delightful as a ButterBurger might sound, you may want to tread with caution at Culver's.

Does Culver's Use Seed Oils?

Located across America's heartland, Culver's, with its famous ButterBurgers and Fresh Frozen Custard, has been serving up smiles since 1984. As a Midwest favorite, this family-friendly restaurant touts their commitment to sourcing quality ingredients. But how does Culver's fare when it comes to the subject of seed oils? Read on to find out.

Culver's Relies Heavily on Seed Oils

While many look forward to the thick, creamy shakes and crispy crinkle-cut fries that Culver's serves, it's essential to highlight the predominant use of seed oils in their cooking processes. Their transparency regarding ingredients is commendable; however, diving deeper reveals the presence of bad oils in most of their dishes.

The Oils Culver's Trusts

Two main culprits when it comes to seed oils at Culver's are soybean and canola oils. These oils are popular in the fast-food industry due to their cost-effectiveness, longer shelf life, and high smoke points. However, both soybean and canola oils are rich in polyunsaturated fats, which have been associated with inflammation and a heightened risk of heart diseases. Frequent consumption of these oils can disrupt the body's omega-6 to omega-3 ratio, leading to potential health issues down the road.

Navigating the Culver's Menu

Given the widespread use of seed oils at Culver's, where can a health-conscious diner turn?

Seed-oil safe menu items

For those keen on avoiding seed oils, the choices are limited but not impossible. Consider a burger patty topped with Swiss or Cheddar cheese. Ketchup and mustard remain safe bets for condiments. On the side, one might opt for a simple salad without cashews or pecans, mashed potatoes without gravy, or even the steamed broccoli. For a more detailed guide, our app, Seed Oil Scout, offers a comprehensive breakdown.

The No-Go Zone

Unfortunately, a vast portion of Culver's offerings use seed oils. All their fried items, including the popular crinkle-cut fries, are a no-go. The burger buns, corn dogs, chicken tenders, fish, and a majority of their sauces also make the list of items best avoided.

Our Verdict: Dine Carefully at Culver's

As delightful as a ButterBurger might sound, those keen on reducing seed oil intake should tread with caution at Culver's. While the restaurant provides a comforting and delicious burger, the health-conscious diner might find limited options that align with their nutritional goals. The call isn't to completely shun this Midwest favorite but to be informed and make choices that cater to your health.

With our app at your fingertips, making informed dining decisions has never been easier. Stay informed, stay healthy, and let Seed Oil Scout be your guide to better dining choices.