Do Apple Sauces Have Potassium? Unpacking the Nutritional Facts

October 29, 2025 •

3 min read

According to the USDA, a single cup of unsweetened applesauce can contain approximately 180 milligrams of potassium, demonstrating that yes, apple sauces do have potassium. The exact amount depends on whether it's sweetened or unsweetened and whether it's made with or without the peel, but applesauce is generally considered a low-potassium food option.

Quick Summary

Applesauce is a source of potassium, though it is not considered high in the mineral. The content varies by preparation, with unsweetened versions typically containing moderate amounts. It's often recommended for low-potassium diets, but portion control is important.

Key Points

Yes, Applesauce Has Potassium: Applesauce naturally contains potassium because it is made from apples, which are a source of this mineral.
Low to Moderate Content: Despite containing potassium, applesauce is generally considered a low-potassium food compared to other fruits like bananas.
Serving Size Matters: A standard 1/2 cup serving of unsweetened applesauce provides approximately 90-122 mg of potassium, contributing about 2-3% of the daily recommended value.
Good for Low-Potassium Diets: Applesauce is often recommended for those on potassium-restricted diets, such as individuals with certain kidney conditions, but portion control is essential.
Check the Label: The exact potassium content can vary by brand and recipe, so checking the nutrition label on commercially prepared applesauce is crucial.
Other Nutritional Benefits: Beyond potassium, applesauce is a source of dietary fiber (pectin) and antioxidants, especially in versions made with the apple peel.

The Applesauce and Potassium Connection

Applesauce is a popular and versatile food, often used as a snack, a baking ingredient, or a side dish. As a product of apples, it naturally contains many of the same nutrients, including potassium. However, its potassium content is relatively low compared to other fruits like bananas or oranges, making it a suitable option for those on a low-potassium diet. The amount of potassium can vary based on several factors, including the type of apples used and whether the applesauce is processed with or without the skin. For example, leaving the skin on during processing increases the fiber and nutrient content, potentially affecting the final potassium level.

Nutritional Comparison: Applesauce vs. Other Fruits

To put applesauce's potassium content into perspective, it is useful to compare it with other common fruits. While a 1/2 cup serving of unsweetened applesauce contains a moderate amount of potassium (around 90-122 mg, depending on the source), fruits like bananas are famously high in potassium.

Low-Potassium Fruits

Applesauce (1/2 cup)
Apples (1 medium)
Blueberries (1/2 cup)
Cherries (1/2 cup)
Strawberries (1/2 cup)

High-Potassium Fruits

Bananas
Oranges and Orange Juice
Cantaloupe
Dried apricots
Prunes

Understanding Potassium for Kidney Health

For individuals with kidney disease, managing potassium intake is crucial, as impaired kidneys may struggle to remove excess potassium from the blood. This can lead to a condition called hyperkalemia, which can cause serious heart problems. Healthcare providers, often including a kidney dietitian, may recommend a diet that includes low-potassium fruits like applesauce. It is important to note that many people with kidney disease do not need to restrict their potassium, and they should only do so under medical supervision. Furthermore, portion size is a key consideration; even a low-potassium food can become a high-potassium food if consumed in a large enough quantity.

The Role of Preparation and Ingredients

Commercial applesauce and homemade versions can have different potassium levels. Homemade applesauce, especially when prepared with the skin on, may contain slightly more nutrients, including potassium, than store-bought varieties. Conversely, commercially prepared applesauce sometimes has added ingredients. It is always important to check the nutrition label for specifics, especially for those with specific dietary needs. For example, some brands may add vitamin C (ascorbic acid) for preservation, which does not significantly impact potassium levels.

Here is a comparison of different applesauce varieties based on typical nutritional data for a 1/2 cup serving:


Feature	Unsweetened Applesauce	Sweetened Applesauce (Typical)
Calories	~50 kcal	~80+ kcal
Sugar	~11.5g (natural)	~18g (natural + added)
Potassium	~90-122 mg	~70-120 mg*
Fiber	~1.3g	~1.3g
Processing	Just apples, sometimes with ascorbic acid	Apples + added sugars and possibly other flavorings
Best For	Lower-sugar diets, general wellness	For those who prefer a sweeter taste profile

*Potassium content can vary significantly based on ingredients and processing, so always check the label.

Beyond the Basic Facts: A Look at Fiber and Antioxidants

Applesauce offers more than just potassium. It contains dietary fiber, especially the soluble fiber pectin, which is beneficial for digestion and can help lower cholesterol. The antioxidant content, including phytochemicals like quercetin, is also a notable benefit. These antioxidants are associated with a reduced risk of chronic diseases. The health benefits are maximized when using applesauce made with the apple peel. When dealing with digestive issues like diarrhea, applesauce is often recommended as part of the BRAT diet (bananas, rice, applesauce, toast) because of its pectin content, which can help firm up stools.

Conclusion: Applesauce as Part of a Balanced Diet

Do apple sauces have potassium? Yes, but they are considered a low-potassium fruit, especially in controlled portions. For most people, applesauce is a nutritious and healthy option, offering fiber, antioxidants, and moderate amounts of minerals like potassium. For those with specific dietary restrictions, such as a low-potassium diet for kidney disease, applesauce can be an excellent choice when consumed in appropriate serving sizes. Always read nutrition labels and consult with a healthcare professional or dietitian to ensure it fits within your specific dietary needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, applesauce is not considered a high-potassium food. It contains a moderate amount of the mineral, making it a suitable option for those who need to monitor their intake, such as people on a low-potassium diet.

A 1/2 cup serving of unsweetened applesauce typically contains between 90 and 122 milligrams of potassium, though this can vary slightly by brand and preparation.

Both sweetened and unsweetened applesauce are generally low in potassium. However, unsweetened applesauce is a healthier choice overall as it avoids the added sugars found in sweetened varieties.

Yes, applesauce made with the peel may have slightly more potassium, along with a higher concentration of fiber and antioxidants, compared to applesauce made without the peel.

Applesauce is often included in low-potassium diets recommended for people with kidney disease, but it's important to control portion sizes and consult with a healthcare provider or dietitian. Not all kidney patients need to restrict potassium.

Whole apples, especially with the skin, contain slightly more potassium and significantly more fiber than applesauce. However, both are considered low-potassium fruit options.

No, if you are on a low-potassium diet, you should avoid salt substitutes. These products often contain potassium chloride and are very high in potassium.