Best Dairy Free Butter for Baking: Top 10 Picks

Formulating exceptional baked goods often hinges on the precise fat content and molecular structure of the primary emulsifier. For those seeking plant-based alternatives, identifying the best dairy free butter for baking is paramount to achieving desired textures and flavors.

From achieving flaky pie crusts to creating tender cakes, the choice of dairy free butter significantly impacts the final outcome. Understanding the nuances between these innovative products is key for bakers aiming for perfection.

Continue reading to uncover the leading dairy free butter options that promise to revolutionize your baking endeavors.

Bake Your Best: Top Dairy-Free Butters

Image	Product	Price
Best Pick 1	Miss Jones Baking Organic Buttercream Frosting, Perfect for Icing and	Check Price
Best Pick 2	Earth Balance, Spread Buttery Whipped Organic, 13 Ounce	Check Price
Best Pick 3	Lorann Oils Butter Bakery Emulsion: True Butter Flavor, Ideal for	Check Price
Best Pick 4	Green Valley Lactose Free Butter, two 4 Ounce sticks	Check Price
Best Pick 5	Anthony’s Premium Butter Powder, 1 lb, Gluten Free, Non GMO,	Check Price

1. Miss Jones Baking Organic Buttercream Frosting, Perfect for Icing and

Elevate your baked goods with Miss Jones Baking Organic Buttercream Frosting, the ultimate solution for achieving that perfect homemade taste and texture without the fuss. This delicious frosting is whipped to fluffy perfection, making it the ideal partner for all your dessert creations.

Crafted with premium organic ingredients, this vegan-friendly, gluten-free, and dairy-free frosting delivers a rich, creamy vanilla flavor that rivals scratch-made versions. It’s free from trans fats, artificial colors, and flavors, ensuring you can indulge with confidence knowing you’re using the best.

Pros

• Achieve a delightful fluffy and creamy texture that enhances the visual appeal and taste of cakes, cupcakes, and cookies, offering a superior alternative to traditional dairy butter frosting.
• Enjoy peace of mind with a product made from organic, non-GMO ingredients, catering to a variety of dietary needs including vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, soy-free, and nut-free preferences, perfect for those seeking healthier baking options.
• Experience the authentic, balanced sweet, and rich vanilla flavor that mimics homemade frosting, making it the best dairy-free butter substitute for achieving a genuinely from-scratch taste in your baking.
• Conveniently ready to use straight from the container, eliminating the need to cream butter and sugar, saving valuable time in the kitchen for busy bakers.

Cons

• While suitable for a wide range of applications, some bakers accustomed to the unique richness of real butter may find the flavor profile slightly different, though still highly enjoyable for a dairy-free option.

Miss Jones Baking Organic Buttercream Frosting is your go-to for effortless, delicious, and inclusive baking. Its superior taste and texture make it a standout choice for anyone looking for the best dairy-free butter for baking, ensuring your desserts are always a crowd-pleaser.

2. Earth Balance, Spread Buttery Whipped Organic, 13 Ounce

Discover the ultimate plant-based solution for your baking and spreading needs with Earth Balance Organic Whipped Buttery Spread. Crafted for those seeking delicious dairy-free alternatives, this organic spread delivers rich, buttery flavor without compromising your dietary choices.

This 13-ounce container of Earth Balance offers a smooth, whipped texture that is perfect for both cooking and enjoying on toast. As a non-GMO and vegan option, it’s a versatile staple for any kitchen. It boasts 0 grams of trans fat, making it a healthier choice for everyday enjoyment.

Pros

• Exceptional Baking Performance: Ideal for those searching for the best dairy-free butter for baking, it performs wonderfully in cookies, cakes, and pastries, providing a tender crumb and rich taste.
• Certified Organic and Non-GMO: Made with certified organic ingredients and is non-GMO Project Verified, ensuring a pure and wholesome product for your family.
• Vegan and Allergen-Friendly: This spread is completely vegan and is free from common allergens like soy (confirming the specific product’s allergen panel is key here, though the provided data lists soy as an allergen information). It’s also gluten-free and Kosher certified.
• Versatile Whipped Texture: The light, whipped consistency makes it easy to spread on warm bread or incorporate into recipes, offering superior blendability compared to some solid alternatives.

Cons

• Some users might find the whipped texture slightly less dense than traditional butter, which could require minor adjustments in recipes that rely heavily on the precise fat content of solid butter sticks.

For anyone seeking a top-tier plant-based butter substitute, Earth Balance Organic Whipped Buttery Spread is an outstanding choice. It seamlessly integrates into your cooking and baking, delivering delightful flavor and texture while adhering to a wholesome, vegan lifestyle.

3. Lorann Oils Butter Bakery Emulsion: True Butter Flavor, Ideal for

Elevate your baked goods with the authentic taste of real butter! Lorann Oils Butter Bakery Emulsion delivers unparalleled flavor impact, transforming ordinary cookies, cakes, and desserts into bakery-quality delights without the dairy.

This 4-ounce butter flavor emulsion is a game-changer for bakers seeking a concentrated, true butter taste. Unlike standard extracts, its emulsion blend ensures a robust flavor that withstands baking temperatures, providing consistent, delicious results every time.

Pros

• Provides a potent and authentic butter flavor that significantly surpasses standard extracts, achieving that coveted “bakery-grade” taste in homemade goods.
• Its emulsion form ensures the flavor doesn’t bake out, guaranteeing a rich and consistent butter essence throughout your cookies, cakes, and other baked treats.
• Ideal for specialized diets, this gluten-free and keto-friendly butter flavor allows individuals to enjoy delicious baked goods without compromising their dietary needs.
• Packaged in a durable, BPA-free, and recyclable PET plastic bottle, aligning with a commitment to both quality and environmental consciousness, with manufacturing in the USA.

Cons

• As an emulsion, it does not contribute to the texture or leavening in recipes where butter’s fat content is crucial for structure, unlike actual butter.

For bakers seeking intensified, true butter flavor without dairy, Lorann Oils Butter Bakery Emulsion is an indispensable kitchen essential. Achieve unparalleled richness and taste in your baking for everything from simple cookies to elaborate cakes, all while catering to dietary preferences.

4. Green Valley Lactose Free Butter, two 4 Ounce sticks

Experience the rich, creamy taste of real dairy butter without the digestive discomfort. Green Valley Creamery’s Lactose Free Butter offers a delicious solution for those seeking the authentic flavor and baking performance of cultured butter, now made easily digestible for everyone.

This real dairy cultured butter, finished with a touch of sea salt, is crafted from rBST-free milk. Its lactose-free nature makes it a fantastic option for sensitive stomachs, ensuring your culinary creations are both delightful and easily tolerated.

It’s a game-changer for anyone who loves to bake but needs a digestive-friendly dairy option.

Pros

• Enjoy the authentic, creamy taste and superior baking texture of real dairy cultured butter, now lactose-free and easily digestible thanks to a unique breakdown process.
• Certified FODMAP Friendly, making it a safe and accessible choice for individuals managing digestive sensitivities, promoting enjoyment without worry.
• Made with high-quality, rBST-free milk and Wisconsin Grade AA standards, ensuring a premium product with a clean, delicious flavor profile for all your cooking and baking needs.

Cons

• The two 4-ounce stick packaging might require purchasing multiple units for larger baking projects compared to bulk butter options.

Green Valley Creamery’s Lactose Free Butter is an excellent choice for home bakers and cooks seeking the traditional buttery goodness without the lactose. Whether you’re whipping up flaky pastries, rich sauces, or simply spreading it on toast, this butter delivers exceptional flavor and performance, proving that delicious dairy can be enjoyed by more people.

5. Anthony’s Premium Butter Powder, 1 lb, Gluten Free, Non GMO,

Unlock culinary possibilities with Anthony’s Premium Butter Powder, the versatile staple for home cooks seeking rich flavor and incredible convenience. This high-quality ingredient delivers the essence of butter without the refrigeration, making it an indispensable pantry essential for a wide range of culinary creations.

Boasting a 72% fat content, this gluten-free and non-GMO butter powder from the USA offers a pure, creamy taste. It seamlessly replaces traditional butter in your favorite recipes, and its shelf-stable nature makes it perfect for everything from camping trips to everyday gourmet meals.

Pros

• Exceptional Versatility: Perfectly substitutes churned butter in baking, sauces, soups, and more, delivering consistent richness and flavor. Enjoy it sprinkled on popcorn for an instant upgrade.
• Uncompromised Quality & Safety: Sourced non-GMO and rBST hormone-free, ensuring a premium butter taste and composition. This product adheres to high standards for discerning consumers.
• Ultimate Convenience: Shelf-stable and travel-friendly, making it ideal for camping, RVs, or simply reducing refrigerator clutter. Its powdered form guarantees a long lifespan and easy storage.
• Diet-Friendly: Certified Gluten-Free and Keto-Friendly, accommodating various dietary needs without sacrificing taste or culinary tradition. Discover exceptional flavor for healthy eating.

Cons

• Some users may find the reconstitution process requires careful attention to achieve the desired texture for specific applications.

Anthony’s Butter Powder is a game-changer for those who value both flavor and practicality in their kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or an outdoor enthusiast, this powdered butter alternative offers an elevated culinary experience with unparalleled ease of use.

6. Lotus Biscoff Cookie Butter Spread, Creamy, non GMO + Vegan,

Discover the irresistible charm of Lotus Biscoff Cookie Butter Spread, a delightful confection that offers a unique sweet indulgence for any occasion. Perfect for those seeking a delicious dairy-free alternative, this creamy spread transforms your everyday snacks and bakes into extraordinary treats.

Crafted from original Lotus Biscoff cookies, this spread boasts an incredibly smooth texture and an unforgettable taste. It serves as a versatile substitute for traditional nut butters like peanut butter or almond butter, and chocolate spreads such as hazelnut varieties, bringing a distinct Belgian flavor to your table.

Pros

• Exceptional Taste & Texture: Offers a unique, caramel-spiced flavor profile with a luxuriously smooth, spreadable consistency that’s perfect for toast, pancakes, or enjoying straight from the jar. It’s a sought-after treat for lovers of spiced cookies.
• Versatile Culinary Ingredient: Beyond simple spreading, it excels as a baking ingredient, adding depth and sweetness to cookies, cakes, and desserts when used as a filling, frosting, or even mixed into batter to create a truly special dairy-free dessert.
• Dietary Friendly & Allergy Conscious: This spread is proudly non-GMO, vegan-friendly, and contains no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives. Notably, it’s made in a nut-free facility and is free from nuts, making it a safer choice for many with dietary restrictions and allergies.
• Convenient & Shareable: The generously sized 25.4-ounce jar ensures there’s plenty for family snacking or for incorporating into multiple recipes, making it an ideal pantry staple for those who appreciate flavorful, plant-based sweet spreads or seeking alternatives to peanut butter.

Cons

• While it is a dairy-free butter alternative for spreading, its primary ingredients of biscoff cookies and palm oil mean it’s a decadent sweet treat rather than a direct fat substitute like some other vegan butters designed specifically for baking functionality where precise fat content is crucial.

Lotus Biscoff Cookie Butter Spread delivers a distinctively delightful experience, perfect for enhancing breakfast, elevating baked goods, or simply satisfying a sweet craving. Embrace the unique, spiced sweetness that makes this Belgian specialty a must-have for anyone exploring delicious dairy-free and nut-free sweet spreads.

7. Goodman’s Butter Extract – Gluten-Free, Non-GMO, Low Carb & Calorie,

Craving that rich, unmistakable butter flavor in your baked goods but avoiding dairy? Goodman’s Natural Butter Extract offers an intense, authentic buttery essence, perfect for transforming your cakes, cookies, and pastries into decadent delights without a single dairy ingredient.

This gluten-free, non-GMO butter essence delivers exceptional richness, making it an ideal companion for your dairy-free baking endeavors. From tantalizing pies to savory crusts, Goodman’s extract enhances every bite, ensuring a delightful taste experience for those with dietary sensitivities or anyone seeking a pure butter flavor boost.

Pros

• Intense, Authentic Butter Flavor: Imparts a robust, delicious buttery aroma and taste, akin to real butter, significantly elevating the flavor profile of baked goods like cookies, cakes, and brownies. This makes it a go-to for those seeking the best dairy free butter flavor substitute.
• Dairy-Free & Allergy-Friendly: An excellent choice for individuals with lactose intolerance, dairy allergies, or following a vegan lifestyle, providing rich butter taste without any dairy components. It truly stands out as a premier dairy-free butter substitute for baking.
• Versatile Culinary Applications: Beyond sweets, this extract adds a delightful buttery richness to savory dishes, including pizza crusts and pie bases, proving its worth as a versatile butter flavoring for cooking and baking.
• Clean Ingredient Profile: Formulated with high-quality, safe dairy extractives, it is gluten-free, non-GMO, kosher, low carb, low calorie, low alcohol, and contains no artificial colors or added sugar, aligning with healthy eating preferences and making it a trusted natural butter extract.
• Creative Flavor Enhancements: Offers unique uses beyond traditional baking, such as adding a buttery note to coffee or creamers, expanding its appeal as a unique flavor enhancer.

Cons

• Concentrated Flavor: The intensity of the butter flavor may require careful measurement, as overuse could potentially overpower other ingredients in delicate recipes.

Goodman’s Natural Butter Extract is your secret weapon for achieving that coveted buttery taste in a multitude of dishes, all while adhering to dietary needs. Elevate your kitchen creations with this potent, natural flavor enhancer for truly unforgettable results.

8. Nutiva Organic Coconut Oil with Non-Dairy Butter Flavor, 14 Ounce

Craving that rich, buttery taste without the dairy? Nutiva Organic Coconut Oil with Non-Dairy Butter Flavor delivers an exceptional plant-based alternative, perfect for elevating your everyday cooking and baking.

Experience the authentic aroma and creamy texture that makes this a go-to for health-conscious gourmets.

This USDA-certified organic, steam-refined coconut oil is infused with natural botanical extracts for a delightful butter flavor. Enjoy its versatility for popcorn, sautéing, spreading, and a wide array of baked goods. With its high smoke point of 400°F, it’s a reliable ingredient for both sweet and savory dishes, offering a pure, non-GMO, and hexane-free culinary experience.

With its high smoke point of 400°F, it’s a reliable ingredient for both sweet and savory dishes, offering a pure, non-GMO, and hexane-free culinary experience.

Pros

• Authentic Butter Flavor & Aroma: Imparts a delicious, creamy butter taste and scent to dishes, making it a superior dairy-free butter substitute for baking and cooking.
• Versatile Kitchen Staple: Ideal for a multitude of uses including homemade popcorn, sautéing vegetables, spreading on toast, and as a key ingredient in cakes, cookies, and other baked treats without compromising flavor.
• Healthy & Diet-Friendly: Certified organic, non-GMO, gluten-free, and suitable for Whole30, vegetarian, vegan, paleo, and ketogenic diets, meeting diverse dietary needs.
• High Smoke Point: With a heat tolerance up to 400°F, it’s perfect for various cooking methods, from low-heat simmering to high-heat searing.
• Nutrient-Rich Composition: Contains beneficial MCTs and lauric acid, derived from carefully sourced and sustainably grown coconuts.

Cons

• Some users may find the distinct coconut undertone noticeable, though this is generally masked by the butter flavor in most applications.

Nutiva Organic Coconut Oil with Non-Dairy Butter Flavor stands out as a premier choice for those seeking a truly satisfying dairy-free butter solution. Whether you’re a dedicated baker exploring vegan recipes or simply looking for a healthier cooking oil, this product offers exceptional taste and performance.

9. Dandies Marshmallow Cream, Vegan and Allergen Friendly Cream for Baking,

Unlock creamy, dreamy sweetness in your desserts with Dandies Marshmallow Cream! This fluffy, plant-based delight offers the classic, nostalgic marshmallow flavor you crave, perfect for enhancing all your favorite baked goods without any dairy or gelatin.

Crafted from simple, vegan ingredients, Dandies Marshmallow Cream provides a smooth, spreadable texture ideal for a wide array of sweet applications. Free from gluten, dairy, corn syrup, and artificial additives, it’s a trusted ingredient for families and conscious bakers alike seeking delicious, safer dessert options.

Pros

• Exceptional Allergen-Friendly Formulation: Completely free from dairy, gluten, gelatin, corn syrup, and artificial flavors or colors, making it a safe and inclusive choice for those with common dietary restrictions and allergies.
• Versatile Baking and Sweetening Ingredient: Beyond frostings and crispy treats, it excels in s’mores, cupcakes, cookies, fudge, and even as a luxurious hot chocolate topping, offering unparalleled flexibility for vegan baking ingredients.
• Authentic Marshmallow Texture and Taste: Delivers the beloved fluffy, light mouthfeel and sweet flavor of traditional marshmallows without compromising on its plant-based dessert status.
• Clean Label Ingredients: Features a straightforward ingredient list, avoiding high-fructose corn syrup and artificial components, appealing to consumers seeking healthier dessert options.

Cons

• While versatile, it may not achieve the same extreme stability as some traditional marshmallow products in very high-heat applications without additional stabilizers for some advanced confectionery recipes.

Dandies Marshmallow Cream truly shines as a versatile, safe, and delicious alternative for anyone looking to elevate their sweets. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan baker or simply seeking purer ingredients, this creamy delight is your go-to for achieving that perfect fluffy finish in a multitude of dairy-free desserts.

10. NuttZo Organic Power Fuel 7 Nuts and Seeds Butter, Smooth,

Elevate your culinary creations with NuttZo Organic Power Fuel, a uniquely blended nut and seed butter that offers a delicious and nutritious alternative for health-conscious individuals. Discover the versatility of this smooth, USDA Certified Organic spread, perfect for both sweet and savory applications, and experience guilt-free indulgence.

This exceptional butter is crafted from seven organic nuts and seeds, including cashews, almonds, and flaxseed, delivering a rich, creamy texture without added sugars, preservatives, or oils. Its naturally smooth consistency makes it an ideal ingredient for baking dairy-free treats, enhancing smoothies, or simply enjoying on toast.

Pros

• Nutrient-Dense Blend: Combines seven organic nuts and seeds (almonds, cashews, Brazil nuts, flax seeds, chia seeds, hazelnuts, pumpkin seeds) for a superior nutritional profile and complex flavor.
• Clean Ingredients: USDA Certified Organic, gluten-free, peanut-free, vegan, keto-friendly, and Kosher, with no added sugar, preservatives, or oils, making it a wholesome choice for various dietary needs.
• Exceptional Versatility: Perfect as a dairy-free butter substitute in baking, a flavorful addition to smoothies, oatmeal, pancakes, or enjoyed straight from the jar as a satisfying snack.
• Mission-Driven Purchase: Every purchase supports Project Left Behind, aiding underprivileged children in Peru, adding a feel-good element to your consumption.
• Easy to Use: The smooth, pourable consistency, especially after being stored upside down, facilitates easy stirring and seamless incorporation into recipes.

Cons

• Natural Oil Separation: Like many natural nut and seed butters, some separation of the oils may occur, requiring stirring before use.

NuttZo Organic Power Fuel stands out as a premium choice for those seeking the best dairy-free butter for baking and a multitude of other uses. Its commitment to organic ingredients and its unique blend offers a satisfying and healthy option that aligns with a conscious lifestyle.

Choosing the Best Dairy-Free Butter for Baking

Flavor profiles and ingredients

The composition of fats profoundly influences how a substitute butter performs and tastes in culinary creations.

Understanding the base ingredients is paramount, as they determine everything from texture to the subtle flavor notes that will emerge during baking.

For instance, plant-based fats like coconut oil can impart a distinct tropical aroma and a firmer texture, while oil blends often aim for a neutral flavor and a softer consistency that mimics traditional butter more closely. Beyond the primary fat source, scrutinize the full ingredient list for taste enhancers.

Manufacturers may utilize natural flavorings, derived from real food sources, to achieve a richer, more authentic buttery essence, or opt for artificial alternatives which can sometimes produce a less complex taste. Pay close attention to whether the product is sweetened or unsweetened, as this significantly impacts the final baked good. Unsweetened varieties offer greater control over the overall sweetness of your recipes, making them ideal for savory dishes or when you prefer to add sugar precisely to your liking, whereas sweetened options might already contain added sugars, which can alter the sugar balance in delicate pastries and cookies.

Performance in recipes

The true measure of a quality plant-based butter alternative lies in its functional culinary performance.

This characteristic is paramount because it directly dictates the success of your cherished recipes, ensuring that your efforts yield delicious and visually appealing results every time.

For instance, a superior dairy-free butter will expertly cream with sugar, forming the light and airy foundation essential for tender, perfectly textured cookies. Its structure is vital for laminating doughs, creating the coveted, shatteringly flaky layers in pastries and pie crusts. Furthermore, when introduced to the heat of the oven, it facilitates a beautiful browning on the surface of breads, adding both visual appeal and a depth of flavor.

Furthermore, when introduced to the heat of the oven, it facilitates a beautiful browning on the surface of breads, adding both visual appeal and a depth of flavor. In the realm of cakes, its fat content is indispensable for imparting a moist crumb and a rich, tender mouthfeel, effectively mimicking the properties of traditional butter.

Baking versatility

The ability of a plant-based butter alternative to perform across a wide range of culinary applications is paramount to its value.

For home bakers and cooks, a truly versatile dairy-free option means confidently tackling everything from delicate cakes and chewy cookies to flaky pie crusts, and it shouldn’t falter in savory preparations either.

Consider how well it creams with sugar for airy cake batters, how it holds its shape for perfectly formed cookies, and how it contributes to that desirable crispiness in baked goods. Its responsiveness to heat is also key; a good culinary shortening should have a usable melting point and excellent spreadability straight from the refrigerator for toast or frosting, yet maintain stability when heated for sautéing vegetables or enriching sauces without breaking or burning. Understanding its behavior at varying temperatures ensures consistent, delicious results regardless of the recipe or cooking method.

Understanding its behavior at varying temperatures ensures consistent, delicious results regardless of the recipe or cooking method.

Dietary considerations beyond dairyfree

Navigating broader dietary needs ensures every baker can create delicious results free from common allergens.

Beyond simply avoiding dairy, many individuals require options that exclude other prevalent allergens like soy and nuts, which are frequent ingredients in plant-based butters. For those with specific sensitivities, identifying a butter alternative that is certified soy-free is paramount to prevent adverse reactions and ensure safety. Additionally, nut-free formulations are essential for school-safe baking or individuals with tree nut or peanut allergies.

Additionally, nut-free formulations are essential for school-safe baking or individuals with tree nut or peanut allergies. This attention to ingredient sourcing extends to a preference for products that are NonGMO and organic.

Choosing products with NonGMO Project Verified or USDA Organic certifications provides assurance that ingredients have been grown and processed according to strict standards, free from genetically modified organisms and synthetic pesticides or fertilizers. This commitment to purity not only supports healthier eating but also aligns with environmentally conscious practices, offering bakers peace of mind that their creations are both wholesome and ethically produced.

Therefore, meticulously checking labels for these designations is a vital step for anyone with dietary restrictions beyond the absence of dairy, enabling them to confidently bake for themselves and others with diverse needs.

Quick Best Dairy Free Butter For Baking Buying Checklist

• Ingredient Check: Ensure it’s free from dairy and other allergens you avoid.
• Fat Content: Look for a fat percentage similar to dairy butter for best results.
• Flavor Notes: Consider if coconut or other oil flavors will complement your baking.
• Texture: Opt for varieties that cream well and mimic the texture of butter.
• Recipe Suitability: Research how the butter performs in specific types of baked goods.
• Brand Reputation: Choose well-regarded brands known for quality dairy-free products.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’S The Biggest Difference Between Dairy-Free Butter And Regular Butter For Recipes?

The primary difference is the absence of dairy. This can affect richness, browning, and sometimes the specific flavor profile of your baked goods.

Can I Substitute Dairy-Free Butter 1:1 For Dairy Butter In Any Recipe?

Often, yes, but some recipes might require slight adjustments. Higher fat content dairy-free butters tend to perform more similarly.

How Does Dairy-Free Butter Affect The Taste Of My Baked Goods?

It depends on the base ingredients. Coconut-based butters might impart a slight coconut flavor, while oil blends are often more neutral.

Which Dairy-Free Butter Is Best For Flaky Pie Crusts?

Look for a butter that is solid when cold and melts cleanly, creating steam pockets. Many brands designed specifically for baking work well.

Are There Dairy-Free Butters That Are Also Soy-Free Or Nut-Free?

Yes, many brands offer soy-free and nut-free options, often using blends of vegetable oils, coconut oil, or avocado oil.

Final Words

Finding the best dairy free butter for baking opens up a world of delicious possibilities without compromising on flavor or texture. With various formulations available, your favorite recipes can be enjoyed by everyone. Embrace the variety and elevate your baking with the perfect dairy-free choice.