Guide to Buying Jam

Those looking to buy jam online are often faced with a vast selection. From classic jams and organic fruit spreads to budget-friendly options, the range is diverse. This article serves as a guide, presenting objective criteria to help you find the perfect fruit spread for your taste and needs. We will introduce a selection of different products to highlight the differences in quality, ingredients, and price.

Buyer's Guide: What to Look for When Purchasing Fruit Spreads

The choice of a fruit spread depends on personal preference. Nevertheless, there are several objective features that can help with your selection.

1. Understanding Labels and Fruit Content

The terms on the label provide the first clues about quality. Within the EU, these designations are legally regulated:

• Marmalade: Officially, this term may only be used for spreads made from citrus fruits.
• Jam: Made from one or more other types of fruit, sugar, and water. An Extra Jam must have a higher fruit content (at least 45g per 100g) than a standard jam (at least 35g per 100g).
• Fruit Spread: This term is not strictly regulated and is often used for products that contain alternative sweeteners or have a particularly high fruit content.

A jam with a high fruit content typically offers a richer fruit flavour and often contains less added sugar.

2. Seals and Certifications

For many consumers, sustainability and origin play a crucial role. Certifications can provide guidance here:

• Organic Jam: Products with the EU organic seal come from organic farming, which avoids synthetic chemical pesticides and fertilisers.
• Demeter Fruit Spread: Demeter is the oldest organic certification, representing biodynamic agriculture. It sets holistic standards for cultivation and processing that go beyond the EU's organic regulations.

3. Check the Ingredients List

A look at the ingredients list is always revealing. A shorter list often indicates a simpler, less processed formula. Pay attention to the type of sweetener (e.g., granulated sugar, raw cane sugar, glucose-fructose syrup) and the gelling agent used (usually pectin, which occurs naturally in fruit).

Handpicked Fruit Spread Selections

Here you will find a selection of products that cater to different preferences—from the traditional breakfast classic to the premium organic option.

Bonne Maman Apricot Jam 370g

What sets this product apart Bonne Maman is renowned for its traditional French recipes. This apricot jam (as it's colloquially known) is made according to a classic recipe and offers a balanced taste between fruit and sweetness.

• Product Facts:

  • Fruit Content: 50g of fruit per 100g
  • Ingredients: Apricots, sugar, brown cane sugar, concentrated lemon juice, gelling agent: pectins
  • Origin: Made in France

• Who is this product for? For anyone looking for a classic and fruity jam for their daily breakfast and who values a well-known brand with a traditional manufacturing process.

Campo Verde Demeter Blackberry Fruit Spread 200 g

What sets this product apart This fruit spread from Campo Verde relies on ingredients from biodynamic agriculture and a very high fruit content. It is sweetened exclusively with raw cane sugar.

• Product Facts:

  • Fruit Content: 68g of fruit per 100g
  • Certification: Demeter, which stands for biodynamic agriculture
  • Ingredients: Blackberries**, raw cane sugar, lemon juice (2%), gelling agent: pectin. **from biodynamic agriculture

• Who is this product for? Ideal for health- and environmentally-conscious buyers who prefer a Demeter fruit spread with an intense, authentic fruit taste and minimal ingredients. A great choice for anyone seeking an organic jam that meets exceptionally high standards.

Jeden Tag Extra Apricot Jam

What sets this product apart The "Jeden Tag" brand offers everyday products at an affordable price. This jam meets the "Extra" standard and is a solid, budget-conscious choice.

• Product Facts:

  • Fruit Content: 50g of fruit per 100g (meets the "Extra" standard)
  • Ingredients: Apricots, glucose-fructose syrup, sugar, gelling agent: pectin; acidifier: citric acid
  • Special Feature: Excellent value for money

• Who is this product for? For budget-conscious households looking for a budget-friendly jam for everyday use, but who don't want to compromise on the legally defined quality standard of an "Extra Jam".

Looking for More Options?

The products featured here cover only a small part of our range. If you are looking for other flavours, special dietary spreads, or more brands, it's worth taking a look at the full selection.

? Explore our full range of spreads

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the difference between marmalade and jam?

According to EU regulations, the term "marmalade" can only be used for products made from citrus fruits (e.g., oranges, lemons). Spreads made from other fruits like strawberries, apricots, or cherries are called "jam". However, in common usage, "marmalade" is often used as an umbrella term for all sweet fruit spreads.

How high should the fruit content in a jam be?

For "Extra Jam", a fruit content of at least 45g per 100g is required, while for standard "Jam" it is 35g. A higher fruit content usually means a more intense fruit flavour and often a lower proportion of added sugar. Products labelled as "Fruit Spread" frequently have an even higher fruit content of 60% or more.

Can I order organic jams and fruit spreads online?

Yes, ordering fruit spreads online is straightforward. Many online retailers, including Joybuy, carry a wide selection of certified organic products. Look for the EU organic seal or other recognised certificates like Demeter or Bioland to ensure the products meet ecological standards.