In Quebec, breakfasts and sweet snacks often include a staple: something to spread on a good slice of toast. But between spread and jam, it can sometimes be confusing. These two terms are often used interchangeably, yet they refer to very different products. Here's a short guide to help you understand the difference.
Jam: a well-established tradition
Jam is a sweet product made by cooking fruit with sugar. According to Canadian regulations, for a product to be officially called "jam," it must contain at least 45% fruit and 66% sugar.
Jams are often homemade in Quebec, especially during harvest season. Strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, and rhubarb are among the favorites. They are prized for their rich flavor and sometimes slightly gelled texture thanks to the natural pectin in the fruit.
The spread: freer, more creative
The term "spread" is broader and less regulated. It refers to any product that can be spread on bread, crackers, or biscuits. This includes:
- Fruit spreads (less sweet than jams)
- Chocolate or hazelnut spreads (like the famous Nutella)
- Vegetable spreads (made from chickpeas, lentils, etc.)
- Cheese or nut spreads
Fruit spreads often contain less sugar than jams and may include ingredients like concentrated apple juice or natural sweeteners. They are sometimes called "fruit purees" or "fruit butters," especially when they are very smooth.
Why is this distinction important?
In Quebec, this distinction is particularly relevant for health-conscious consumers or those seeking more natural products. A fruit spread can be an excellent alternative to jam for reducing sugar intake while still enjoying the taste of fruit.
In addition, some artisanal producers use the term "spread" to avoid the legal constraints associated with the term "jam", while offering a superior quality product, often organic or local.
Whether you're a fan of traditional jams or curious to discover innovative spreads, Quebec offers a wonderful variety of products to enjoy. Don't hesitate to read the labels and taste different options to find the one that suits you best!
Our suggestions
At Gourmande boutique, we offer products from several producers of jams and fruit spreads, including the following artisans:
Delights of Île d'Orléans
Uni-Fruits Cherry Croque
NathyD/The Jam Makers
Le Gros Pierre Orchard
Wild Gourmet
Jérémie Postel
Miss Marmalades
Samson River Estate
Mill Valley
Check out our Jams and Fruit Spreads collection to see the full extent of our offering.