15 Best Cashew Butter Brands for Your Nutty Cravings

I have information on the top 15 cashew butter brands to satisfy your nut cravings! Octonuts Dry Roasted, Artisana Organics Raw, and 365 by Whole Foods Market all offer deliciously creamy options. If you’re in search of a keto-friendly choice, give ELAVI’s Blue Vanilla Frosting a try. For an organic option, consider Maisie Janes, or try PB2 for a unique powdered twist. If you love walnuts, Artisana has you covered! And for a natural fix, explore Artisana Naturals. Be sure to consider ingredients, certifications, and texture preferences when making your selection. These irresistible brands are guaranteed to fulfill your cravings – so why miss out on a delicious nutty treat?

Key Takeaways

• Consider ingredients, certifications, texture, taste, and price for top cashew butter brands.
• Prioritize simplicity in ingredients, organic certifications, and desired texture.
• Compare prices per ounce for best value when selecting cashew butter.
• Opt for pure, organic, non-GMO varieties for ingredient purity.
• Assess brand reputation, packaging quality, and customer satisfaction for the best cashew butter experience.

Octonuts Dry Roasted Pure Cashew Nut Butter 16oz

For those in search of a premium, single-ingredient cashew butter option with a rich and creamy texture, Octonuts Dry Roasted Pure Cashew Nut Butter 16oz is an excellent choice. This gluten-free, vegan, kosher, and Paleo-friendly nut butter offers a delicious blend of high plant-based protein, healthy fats, and minerals.

Made in California, Octonuts guarantees quality by dry roasting simple ingredients in facilities free of peanuts, soy, and dairy. Customers praise its rich and creamy flavor, making it a nutrient-dense snack that supports overall body strength, health, and balance.

While some have noted concerns about packaging and taste consistency, the majority appreciate its low sugar content and versatility in use. Overall, Octonuts Dry Roasted Pure Cashew Nut Butter 16oz is a bit pricey but worth it for health-conscious individuals looking for a tasty and nutritious option.

Best For: Health-conscious individuals seeking a premium, nutrient-dense cashew butter option with a rich and creamy texture.

Pros:

• Rich and creamy flavor with high plant-based protein and healthy fats.
• Gluten-free, vegan, kosher, and Paleo-friendly.
• Made in California with simple, quality ingredients.

Cons:

• Some concerns about packaging and taste consistency.
• A bit pricey compared to other nut butter options.
• Limited availability in some regions.

Artisana Organics Raw Cashew Butter

Ideal for those seeking a pure and versatile cashew butter option, Artisana Organics Raw Cashew Butter stands out for its single ingredient, organic cashews, sourced from family farms and processed without roasting or toasting.

This cashew butter is made in small batches using a temperature-controlled process, ensuring the preservation of nutrients and flavor. Customers appreciate its creamy texture and mild sweetness, making it a suitable choice for various diets like vegan, plant-based, and paleo.

With no added oils, this nutritious butter maintains consistency without separating, making it a favorite for both spreading and cooking. While some find it a bit pricey, many consider it a good value for the quality and taste it offers, making it a top contender for your nutty cravings.

Best For: Individuals looking for a high-quality and versatile cashew butter option that fits various dietary preferences.

Pros:

• Made with a single organic ingredient: cashews
• Creamy texture and mild sweetness without added oils
• Suitable for vegan, plant-based, and paleo diets

Cons:

• Some customers find it to be on the pricier side
• Limited to those who enjoy the taste of cashews
• Availability may vary in certain locations

365 by Whole Foods Market, Creamy Cashew Butter, 16 Ounce

With its extra space to stir and no added sugar, the 365 by Whole Foods Market Creamy Cashew Butter is a top choice for health-conscious consumers looking for a velvety and high-quality option.

This cashew butter from Amazon's Whole Foods Market is praised for its excellent taste and premium ingredients.

While some customers mention that it can be a bit oily and inconsistent in texture, most enjoy its smooth and flavorful taste.

To make sure an even consistency, it's recommended to mix the butter well before use and store it upside down to blend the oil and nuts.

Despite these minor issues, the 365 Creamy Cashew Butter stands out for its thin, pourable consistency and overall value for the price.

Best For: Health-conscious consumers seeking a velvety, high-quality cashew butter option without added sugar.

Pros:

• Smooth and flavorful taste
• Extra room to stir for even consistency
• Made with premium ingredients

Cons:

• May be too oily for some
• Inconsistent texture reported by some customers
• Requires stirring before use

ELAVI Keto Cashew Butter Jar (Blue Vanilla Frosting)

The ELAVI Keto Cashew Butter Jar in Blue Vanilla Frosting offers a nutrient-rich and indulgent option for health-conscious individuals seeking a decadent yet guilt-free treat. This thick and fudgey spread is versatile, perfect for pairing with toast, fruit, oatmeal, smoothies, and more. It's lauded for being low in sugar while still delivering a healthy dessert option packed with antioxidants.

Vegan, gluten-free, keto-friendly, and suitable for diabetics and kids, this butter contains no palm oil or seed oil. Reviews highlight its delicious taste, creamy texture, and numerous health benefits. While some customers prefer the Blue Frosting flavor over Fudge, others mention the need for mixing to achieve a smooth consistency.

With its focus on natural ingredients and dietary inclusivity, ELAVI Keto Cashew Butter Jar in Blue Vanilla Frosting stands out as a tasty and wholesome choice.

Best For: Health-conscious individuals looking for a decadent yet guilt-free treat packed with antioxidants and suitable for various dietary needs.

Pros:

• Versatile spread for toast, fruit, oatmeal, smoothies, and more.
• Low in sugar and rich in antioxidants.
• Vegan, gluten-free, keto-friendly, and suitable for diabetics and kids.

Cons:

• Some customers may find the need for mixing to achieve a smooth consistency.
• Mixed reviews on flavors like Blue Frosting vs. Fudge.
• Comments on packaging and jar fill levels may vary.

Maisie Janes Organic Cashew Butter, 12 Oz

For cashew butter enthusiasts seeking a premium organic option, Maisie Janes Organic Cashew Butter, 12 Oz stands out as a excellent choice. This USDA organic, gluten-free, kosher, non-GMO, and vegan option offers a creamy delight made solely from organic cashews.

The texture is exceptionally smooth, complemented by a naturally sweet flavor that sets it apart from other brands. Packaged in a convenient glass jar, this cashew butter has garnered praise for its quality, with customers raving about its superior taste and texture.

While priced at $17.00 per jar, some find it to be a bit on the pricier side compared to other brands, but the consensus is that it's well worth the investment for those craving a high-quality organic cashew butter experience.

Best For: Those seeking a premium organic cashew butter option with a naturally sweet flavor and smooth texture.

Pros:

• Creamy delight made solely from organic cashews
• Naturally sweet flavor without added sugar
• Versatile for standalone snacking or as an ingredient in meals

Cons:

• Higher price point compared to other brands
• Potential issue with leakage of nut oil from the jar
• Some customers may not receive replacements for defective products

Spread The Love Basic Cashew Butter (16 oz.)

Ideal for health-conscious individuals seeking a clean and nutrient-rich spread, this Spread The Love Basic Cashew Butter is a top choice among cashew butter brands. Made solely from roasted cashews without any added oils, this 16 oz. jar offers a natural, vegan, gluten-free, and keto-friendly option.

Packed with essential nutrients beneficial for metabolism, blood sugar, cholesterol, bone health, and blood pressure, this butter provides a healthy snack choice high in healthy fats and low in carbs. Customers appreciate its taste, consistency, and spread-ability, although some have noted minor packaging concerns.

Despite occasional separation requiring stirring, users find this cashew butter versatile for various culinary uses and enjoy its competitive pricing compared to other brands.

Best For: Health-conscious individuals looking for a clean, nutrient-rich spread option that is vegan, gluten-free, and keto-friendly.

Pros:

• Made solely from roasted cashews without added oils
• Packed with essential nutrients beneficial for overall health
• Versatile for various culinary uses and offers competitive pricing

Cons:

• Some customers have noted minor packaging concerns
• Occasional separation in the jar requiring stirring
• Limited to those who enjoy the taste of cashews

ELAVI Keto Cashew Butter Jar (10 Ounces, Chocolate Fudge)

Best suited for those seeking a creamy and indulgent spread with low sugar content, the ELAVI Keto Cashew Butter Jar in Chocolate Fudge flavor offers a delicious and versatile option for various dietary preferences.

This thick and fudgey spread presents a healthier dessert alternative to satisfy your sweet cravings. Customers praise its creamy and smooth texture, making it a favorite for vegan, keto, diabetic, PCOS, autoimmune, and kid-friendly diets.

Despite some issues with separation and texture, many enjoy its enjoyable taste and versatility in various foods. While some users find it falls short in comparison to Nutella, it's lauded as a superior, healthier alternative with excellent taste and texture.

However, there have been concerns raised regarding inconsistencies in product appearance and quality, as well as packaging issues.

Best For: Individuals following vegan, keto, diabetic, PCOS, autoimmune, or kid-friendly diets seeking a low-sugar, creamy, and versatile spread.

Pros:

• Creamy and smooth texture
• Suitable for various dietary preferences
• Versatile usage on different foods

Cons:

• Issues with separation and texture
• Inconsistencies in product appearance and quality
• Packaging concerns leading to dissatisfaction

Once Again Organic Creamy Cashew Butter, 16oz

When looking for a creamy and organic cashew butter with a naturally sweet taste and no added preservatives, Once Again Organic Creamy Cashew Butter, 16oz is a top choice.

This 16 oz jar contains a blend of dry roasted cashews and sunflower oil ethically sourced from Brazil, Africa, and Vietnam. Certified USDA Organic, Gluten-free, Vegan, Kosher, and Peanut-free, this butter comes in recyclable glass jars.

It offers a thicker and stickier texture than regular peanut butter and boasts a naturally sweet flavor without any added sugars or salts.

While some reviews mention occasional issues with consistency, customers appreciate the taste, spreadability, and the company's commitment to organic ingredients.

Ideal for spreading on toast, dipping apple slices, or creating culinary delights, this cashew butter provides a value-for-money, high-protein, low-carb treat for those with gestational diabetes.

Best For: Individuals seeking a naturally sweet, organic, and gluten-free spread with a high-protein content.

Pros:

• Ethically sourced organic ingredients
• Naturally sweet taste without added sugars
• Versatile for various culinary uses

Cons:

• Occasional issues with consistency reported by some customers
• Mixed opinions on the presence of sunflower oil
• Some customers desire varied sweetness levels

Vör All Natural Cashew Butter (12oz)

For those seeking a simple, one-ingredient cashew butter option that aligns with dietary preferences like vegan, paleo, and keto, Vör All Natural Cashew Butter in the 12oz jar offers a versatile and flavorful choice. The positive reviews highlight its delicious taste and natural quality, making it a hit among those looking for a rich and smooth spread.

Some users found it an invigorating alternative to traditional nut butters like peanut or almond, appreciating its easy-to-spread consistency and absence of oil separation. While most feedback was positive, some neutral reviews mentioned preferences for sweeter spreads or added salt.

However, a negative review raised concerns about leaky jars with a specific expiration date, impacting taste and leading to dissatisfaction. Despite mixed experiences, Vör All Natural Cashew Butter seems to cater well to those with specific dietary needs and a taste for simplicity.

Best For: Those looking for a simple and natural cashew butter option that caters to vegan, paleo, and keto diets.

Pros:

• Delicious taste with a rich and smooth texture.
• Easy-to-spread consistency without oil separation.
• Suitable for individuals seeking a one-ingredient nut butter option.

Cons:

• Some users may find it lacking in sweetness.
• Neutral reviews mentioned a preference for added salt.
• Concerns about leaky jars and potential taste issues with specific expiration dates were raised in a negative review.

Amazon Brand, Aplenty Vanilla Cashew Butter, 16 Oz

Aplenty Vanilla Cashew Butter from Amazon Brand offers a decadent and sweet option for those craving a creamy spread with bold vanilla notes. This 16 oz jar combines creamy cashews with silky vanilla and hints of cinnamon, creating a unique flavor profile.

Customer reviews are mixed, with positive feedback on its smooth texture and delicious taste, while some find the vanilla flavor too subtle. Complaints about the consistency being too hard and sugary have also been noted. The taste profile is described as sweet, sugary, and decadent, making it less suitable for those looking for a raw nut butter experience.

Some users recommend crushing and mixing the butter due to crystallized sugar. Overall, while some customers find the added sugar excessive, first-time cashew butter users are impressed with this product.

Best For: Those looking for a sweet and decadent cashew butter with bold vanilla flavors.

Pros:

• Smooth and creamy texture
• Delicious flavor with hints of cinnamon
• Impresses first-time cashew butter users

Cons:

• Some find the vanilla flavor too subtle
• Consistency can be too hard and sugary for some
• Mixed opinions on the added sugar and sweetness levels

Jiva Organics RAW Organic Cashew Butter 16-Ounce Jar

Jiva Organics RAW Organic Cashew Butter 16-Ounce Jar stands out as a top choice for those seeking a delectable and versatile cashew butter option with organic and vegan credentials. This butter is made with 100% USDA Organic Raw Cashews and is free from gluten, irradiation, or fillers.

The creamy and smooth texture makes it a perfect spread for toast, oatmeal, baked treats, and smoothies. Consumers praise its sweet and cashew-rich flavor, although some find it a bit too sweet for daily use. The slightly grainy texture sets it apart from commercial brands, adding a unique touch to various recipes.

It's also lauded for its versatility, being used in dishes ranging from curry to cake balls. With well-packaged jars and a luxurious consistency, Jiva Organics RAW Organic Cashew Butter offers both taste and quality for nut butter enthusiasts.

Best For: Those looking for a high-quality organic and vegan cashew butter option that offers a sweet and creamy flavor profile with a slightly grainy texture for added uniqueness.

Pros:

• Made with 100% USDA Organic Raw Cashews.
• Versatile and can be used in a variety of recipes.
• Creamy and smooth texture that is easy to spread.

Cons:

• Some may find it too sweet for daily use.
• Texture may be slightly grainy for those expecting a completely smooth nut butter.
• Can be thick and sticky, requiring thinning out for easier spreading or mixing.

Kevala Cashew Butter, Premium Natural, 12 oz

The Kevala Cashew Butter, Premium Natural, 12 oz, stands out as a versatile and nutritious option for those seeking a pure, additive-free spread with a natural sweet flavor.

Made from dry roasted hand-picked cashews, this Non-GMO Project Verified butter contains no added salt, sugars, or palm oil, catering to gluten-free diets.

Users praise its creamy texture, low oil separation, and easy spreadability. It's a peanut-free facility product that comes in a glass jar.

To enhance thickness, refrigeration is recommended, and a quick stir before use helps maintain consistency.

With positive reviews highlighting its taste, quality, and natural ingredients, Kevala Cashew Butter proves to be a delightful and healthy alternative to peanut butter, suitable for various culinary applications at a reasonable price point.

Best For: Individuals looking for a natural, creamy, and versatile cashew butter option without added salt, sugars, or palm oil.

Pros:

• Creamy texture with low oil separation.
• Versatile usage in various recipes and snacks.
• Natural and high-quality ingredients with no additives.

Cons:

• Some concerns about packaging security.
• Mixed opinions on taste preferences.
• Issues with oil consistency for some users.

PB2 Powdered Cashew Butter (6.5oz Jar)

For those seeking a lower-fat and lower-calorie alternative to traditional cashew butter, PB2 Powdered Cashew Butter offers a versatile and convenient option. This innovative product is the first Cashew Powder in the market, made from fresh, pressed cashews without added sugar or salt. Each 2 tbsp serving contains 4g of plant-based protein and only 60 calories, making it suitable for low-carb and keto-friendly diets.

PB2 Powdered Cashew Butter is vegan, gluten-free, and crafted with non-GMO ingredients. With 90% less fat and 70% fewer calories compared to regular cashew butter, this powder is a guilt-free addition to your recipes. Whether you're blending it into smoothies, baking with it, or mixing it into sauces, PB2 Powdered Cashew Butter provides a mild cashew flavor that's sure to elevate your dishes.

Best For: Individuals looking for a lower-fat, lower-calorie alternative to traditional cashew butter without compromising on taste or versatility.

Pros:

• Provides 4g of plant-based protein per 2 tbsp serving.
• Versatile in various recipes such as smoothies, baking, and sauces.
• Suitable for low-carb and keto-friendly diets.

Cons:

• Some users may find the taste bland or different from regular cashew butter.
• Higher price point compared to other nut powders.
• Not ideal for thickening smoothies or making cashew milk.

Artisana Organics Raw Walnut Butter with Cashews (14oz Jar)

Wondering which cashew butter brand offers a blend of organic walnuts and cashews suitable for various dietary lifestyles and preferences? Artisana Organics Raw Walnut Butter with Cashews (14oz Jar) might be the ideal choice for you.

This butter is made with just two ingredients sourced from organic family farms: walnuts and cashews. Produced in small batches using a temperature-controlled process, this butter is never roasted, toasted, or cooked, preserving its natural goodness. It caters to various dietary preferences like organic, vegan, non-GMO, kosher, gluten-free, dairy-free, peanut-free, and is certified R.A.W.

Customers appreciate its taste, freshness, and spreadability, with many using it in sandwiches, oatmeal, or as a snack. While some mention concerns about pricing and initial mixing, the high quality and nutrient-rich profile make it a versatile choice for your culinary adventures.

Best For: Those seeking a high-quality, nutrient-rich nut butter that caters to various dietary preferences and lifestyles.

Pros:

• Made with only two organic ingredients: walnuts and cashews
• Small-batch production preserves fatty acids, proteins, vitamins, and enzymes
• Versatile usage in different recipes and snacks

Cons:

• Mixed opinions on price worthiness
• Some concerns about initial mixing upon receipt
• Caution advised against certain vendors

Artisana Naturals Unroasted Cashew Butter (14oz Jar)

Ideal for those seeking a versatile, single-ingredient cashew butter that fits various dietary preferences and offers a creamy, sweet taste, Artisana Naturals Unroasted Cashew Butter in a 14oz jar is a top choice. This butter caters to vegan, non-GMO, kosher, gluten-free, dairy-free, and peanut-free lifestyles, making it a go-to option for those with specific dietary needs.

The creamy texture and sweet nutty flavor, without any added sugar, have garnered positive customer reviews praising its taste, spreadability, and suitability for diets like paleo and candida. Users enjoy it straight from the jar, mixed with sugar-free jelly, or even as a base for 'milk'.

With high customer satisfaction, including repeat purchases and approval from all family members, this cashew butter stands out for its quality and taste.

Best For: Those looking for a premium-quality, versatile cashew butter that aligns with vegan, paleo, and candida diets, offering a creamy texture and sweet nutty taste.

Pros:

• Single-ingredient pure cashew butter
• Fits various dietary preferences (vegan, paleo, etc.)
• Creamy texture and sweet nutty flavor without added sugar

Cons:

• May be pricier compared to some other brands
• Limited availability in some regions
• Not suitable for those with nut allergies

Factors to Consider When Choosing Cashew Butter

When choosing cashew butter, factors to consider include texture preferences, flavor profiles, and nutritional content. This involves examining ingredient purity and specific criteria like organic or non-GMO options. By keeping these points in mind, you can select a cashew butter that aligns with your taste and dietary needs.

This includes looking at ingredient purity and any specific selection criteria you may have, such as organic or non-GMO options. By keeping these points in mind, you can select a cashew butter that aligns best with your taste and dietary needs.

Selection Criteria

Considering factors when selecting cashew butter involves evaluating the ingredients, certifications, texture, taste preferences, and price comparison. To start, check the ingredients list for simplicity; pure cashew butter containing just cashews offers a natural flavor.

Look out for certifications like organic, non-GMO, vegan, or kosher, indicating higher quality and ethical standards. Texture plays an essential role, with options ranging from smooth and creamy to grainy and nutty, catering to individual preferences.

When it comes to taste, determine if you lean towards sweet or savory variations, as some cashew butters may contain added sugars or be unsweetened. Additionally, don't forget to compare prices per ounce among different brands to make sure you're getting the best value for the desired quality and taste.

Texture Preferences

To make an informed choice when selecting cashew butter, considering your preferences for texture is crucial. Think about whether you prefer a creamy, smooth consistency or if you lean towards a slightly grainy texture. Texture preferences can vary from spreadable and easy to blend to thicker and stickier consistencies.

Some individuals may enjoy a naturally sweet texture, while others may prefer a more savory or nutty flavor. Elements like oil separation, thickness, and spreadability play a significant role in determining the texture of cashew butter. It's vital to keep in mind that the texture can greatly influence your overall experience when using cashew butter in recipes or as a standalone snack.

Flavor Profiles

Exploring the various flavor profiles of cashew butter brands reveals the diverse options available to cater to different taste preferences. Cashew butter is known for its naturally sweet and creamy taste, making it a delightful spread or ingredient in various recipes.

Some brands may enhance this flavor by adding ingredients like vanilla, cinnamon, or salt, providing unique twists to the traditional profile. Additionally, the choice between roasted and unroasted cashew butter can notably impact the taste experience. Unroasted varieties tend to have a milder, nuttier flavor compared to the richer taste of roasted versions.

The quality of the cashews used and the processing methods employed also play a role in determining the final flavor profile. As a result, different brands offer distinct taste profiles, allowing consumers to find the perfect cashew butter that aligns with their preferences, whether they prefer a classic, nutty taste or a more enhanced flavor sensation.

Nutritional Content

When selecting cashew butter, it's crucial to prioritize understanding the nutritional content to make a health-conscious choice. Cashew butter is a nutritional powerhouse, offering plant-based protein, healthy fats, and vital minerals such as magnesium and copper.

It's a gluten-free and vegan option, fitting well into paleo or keto diets. Compared to other nut butters, cashew butter is lower in sugar, making it a smarter choice for those monitoring their sugar intake.

The high nutrient density in cashew butter can help bolster overall body strength, health, and balance. To make sure you're getting the best nutritional value, opt for cashew butter with minimal ingredients and no added oils, sugars, or preservatives.

This way, you can enjoy a pure and nutritious spread that not only satisfies your nutty cravings but also supports your well-being.

Ingredient Purity

Considering the purity of ingredients is essential when selecting a cashew butter brand that aligns with your health and dietary preferences. To guarantee you're getting a wholesome product, look for cashew butter made solely from cashews, avoiding added sugars, salts, or oils.

Opting for organic or raw varieties can provide a cleaner option free from pesticides, preservatives, and artificial ingredients. Checking for non-GMO and vegan certifications can further assure that the cashew butter meets specific dietary standards and ethical considerations.

Brands that use simple production methods like dry roasting can help preserve the natural flavor and nutrients of the cashews, enhancing the overall quality of the butter. Avoiding unnecessary additives or fillers is vital to assure you're getting a pure and unadulterated cashew butter that aligns with your desire for a clean and nutritious product.

Price Considerations

To make an informed decision when selecting cashew butter, considering the price per ounce or pound is important for evaluating cost efficiency. It's wise to compare different brands to see which offers the best value for your budget.

Keep an eye out for bulk or multipack deals, as they can help you save money in the long run. While price is essential, don't forget to assess the quality of the product in relation to its cost to make sure you're getting a good deal.

Look for discounts, sales, or promotions that could make higher-priced options more affordable. Remember that organic or specialty cashew butter might come with a higher price tag, but they could offer unique flavors or specific health benefits that make them worth the investment.

Brand Reputation

Let's explore key factors that influence the choice of a cashew butter brand, focusing on reputation within the nut butter industry. When selecting a cashew butter brand, it's vital to examine its history of quality and reliability in producing nut butters. Brands with positive customer reviews and high satisfaction rates are likely to deliver a gratifying experience.

Researching a brand's sourcing practices, production methods, and certifications can help guarantee transparency and integrity in their products.

Furthermore, checking for any recalls, controversies, or negative feedback related to the brand's cashew butter products is important in making an informed decision. Opting for brands known for their dedication to sustainability, ethical sourcing, and overall reputation in the nut butter industry can also provide peace of mind regarding the product's origins and environmental impact.

Packaging Quality

High-quality cashew butter should be packaged in airtight jars or containers to maintain freshness and prevent oil leakage. When choosing cashew butter, it's crucial to search for packaging that isn't only airtight but also made of robust materials capable of enduring shipping and handling.

Consider the size and shape of the packaging for convenience in storage and usage. Opt for transparent or clear containers that allow you to monitor the product's consistency and quality easily. Additionally, make sure that the packaging is labeled with essential information such as ingredients, certifications, and expiration dates. This information not only aids you in making an informed decision but also guarantees you're aware of what you're consuming.

Conclusion

In the world of cashew butter, variety is the spice of life. Just like a colorful palette of paints can create a masterpiece, the diverse range of flavors and textures offered by these top brands can satisfy even the most discerning nut butter connoisseur.

So go ahead, dip your spoon into the creamy goodness of these cashew butter options and let your taste buds paint a delicious picture of nutty perfection.