Does German Sausage Have Carbs? A Complete Guide

December 28, 2025 •

4 min read

According to Nutritionix, many German-style sausages, like Bratwurst, contain minimal to no carbohydrates, typically ranging from 0 to 3 grams per serving. This makes the question of whether German sausage has carbs more complex than a simple yes or no, as the specific type and preparation method are crucial factors in determining the final carb count.

Quick Summary

German sausages are generally very low in carbohydrates, but the exact amount depends on the type and whether fillers are used. Traditional, high-quality sausages are often keto-friendly.

Key Points

Low-Carb by Nature: Most traditional German sausages are very low in carbs, made primarily from meat and fat with minimal added ingredients.
Not All Sausages are Equal: The carb content can vary based on the specific type of sausage and the use of fillers or additives in commercial versions.
Read the Label: Always check the ingredients list for packaged sausages, looking out for dextrose, corn syrup solids, or flours which add carbohydrates.
Source Matters: High-quality sausages from a local butcher are generally a safer, lower-carb option than mass-produced supermarket varieties.
Watch the Sides: The biggest source of carbohydrates typically comes from accompaniments like buns, sweet mustard, and potato-based salads, not the sausage itself.
Choose Carefully: For keto or low-carb diets, opt for traditional options like Bratwurst or Weisswurst and pair them with low-carb sides like sauerkraut.

German Sausage: The Low-Carb Snapshot

Traditionally, German sausages, or 'Wurst', are made from a simple mixture of ground meat (pork, beef, or veal), fat, and spices, which by nature, is very low in carbohydrates. The vast majority of a sausage's calories and macronutrients come from protein and fat. However, while the core sausage meat is typically carb-free, the overall carb content can be influenced by additional ingredients or fillers.

Some commercially produced sausages, especially lower-cost options, might include fillers or binders to save money or improve texture. These fillers, which can add carbohydrates, might include corn syrup solids, dextrose (a form of sugar), or starches. This is why the importance of checking labels, especially for packaged sausages, cannot be overstated. A high-quality sausage from a reputable butcher is the best way to ensure a minimal carb count.

Carb Content Varies by Wurst Type

Germany boasts an incredible variety of sausages, each with its own regional traditions and recipes. The carb content can differ slightly between types, though most remain very low.

Bratwurst: A classic grilled sausage, typically made from pork and/or veal. Most traditional bratwurst contains 1 to 3 grams of carbs per link from seasonings, and sometimes a tiny amount of sugar for flavor balancing.
Weisswurst: A delicate Bavarian veal and pork sausage. A typical Weisswurst can contain as little as 0 grams of carbohydrates.
Frankfurter (Wiener): A thinner, cooked sausage. High-quality Frankfurters are very low-carb, but cheaper supermarket versions can include fillers, so checking the label is essential.
Blutwurst (Blood Sausage): While primarily made of blood and meat, some regional variations might contain fillers like oatmeal or bread crumbs, adding to the carb total.
Kochwürste (Cooked Sausages): This category includes many types of sausages that are cooked or cured. Some, like certain types of liverwurst, might have fillers to help with binding, though traditional German regulations often list all ingredients clearly.

Reading the Label: The Key to Knowing

German food regulations are quite strict about processed meat ingredients. A key takeaway for low-carb enthusiasts is that the presence of ingredients like 'Dextrose', 'Corn Syrup Solids', or 'Starch' indicates added carbohydrates. Reputable butchers often make their sausages with simple, traditional recipes, making them a safer bet. When shopping, look for sausages with a short, understandable ingredient list.

The Real Carb Culprit: The Condiments

For many, the biggest source of carbs when eating German sausage isn't the sausage itself, but the accompaniments. Pairing a low-carb sausage with high-carb sides can quickly change the nutritional profile of your meal.

Traditional Carb Sides: Pretzel buns, potato salad, and beer are all high in carbohydrates.
Low-Carb Side Alternatives: Sauerkraut, a classic pairing, is naturally low in carbs and pairs perfectly with sausage. Opt for low-sugar mustard over honey or sweet varieties.

German Sausages Carb Comparison


Sausage Type	Typical Carbs (per link/serving)	Notes
Bratwurst	1-3g	Varies slightly based on spices and any minor additives.
Weisswurst	0g	Very low-carb, made from pork and veal.
Frankfurter	0-3g	Check labels for fillers, especially for hot dog-style versions.
Blutwurst (Blood Sausage)	Varies	Watch for filler ingredients like oats or breadcrumbs in some recipes.
Cooked Smoked Sausage	1-5g	Carb content can rise with additives; always check the label.
High-Quality Butcher Sausage	Usually under 1g	Often made with only meat and spices, minimizing carbs.

How to Ensure Your German Sausage is Low-Carb

Making mindful choices when purchasing and preparing German sausage can ensure it fits into a low-carb or keto diet. Here's a practical guide:

Read the Ingredient Label: This is the most important step for packaged sausages. Look for ingredients like dextrose, corn syrup solids, flour, or starch, and avoid products where these appear high on the list.
Shop at a Butcher: A quality butcher who makes their own sausages is an excellent source for minimal-ingredient options. Don't be afraid to ask about the ingredients used.
Choose the Right Wurst: For the safest low-carb bets, stick to traditional, simple sausages like Bratwurst or Weisswurst.
Consider 'Gluten-Free' Options: While not always a perfect indicator for low-carb, a sausage labeled gluten-free will at least be free of wheat fillers, which are a common source of carbohydrates.
Watch the Accompaniments: The biggest carb load often comes from buns, sugary mustard, or potato sides. Enjoy your sausage with low-carb sides like sauerkraut or a green salad instead.

Conclusion

In conclusion, traditional, high-quality German sausages are a naturally low-carb and keto-friendly food. Made primarily from meat and spices, they offer a delicious and satisfying protein and fat source with minimal carbohydrates. The key is to be a savvy shopper by reading labels and sourcing products from reputable butchers to avoid commercial versions that may contain fillers like dextrose or corn syrup. By focusing on the sausage itself and pairing it with low-carb sides like sauerkraut and sugar-free mustard, you can enjoy this classic cuisine without derailing your low-carb goals.

Get the Best Quality Sausage

For an excellent example of traditional German sausage making, visit your local German butcher or specialty meat shop. Many use time-honored recipes that adhere to purity laws, ensuring a delicious and authentically low-carb experience. For further insight into the ingredients of various sausages, the website Meats and Sausages offers a comprehensive guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, not all German sausages contain fillers. Traditional and high-quality artisanal sausages are typically made from pure meat, fat, and spices. However, some commercially produced, lower-cost sausages may use fillers like corn syrup solids or flours to reduce production costs.

Yes, traditional Bratwurst is generally a very good low-carb option. It typically contains between 1 and 3 grams of carbs per link, deriving mostly from the spices and seasonings rather than added fillers.

High-quality Bratwurst and Weisswurst are excellent choices for a keto diet, as they are typically made with minimal to no carbohydrates. Always check labels or buy from a trusted butcher to ensure there are no added fillers.

To ensure a sausage is low in carbs, check the ingredients list for starches, flours, dextrose, or corn syrup solids. High-quality sausages from a butcher with a simple ingredient list of just meat and spices are a safe bet. Look for 'gluten-free' labels as well, as they indicate the absence of wheat fillers.

No, the small amount of carbs that come from spices used in traditional German sausage recipes is generally negligible. These amounts contribute to the minimal carb count and are not a concern for those following a low-carb diet.

Not necessarily. The process of smoking does not add carbohydrates. The carb content depends on the initial ingredients. Some smoked sausages might use additives, so it's always best to check the label for any added sugars or fillers.

Excellent low-carb side dishes to pair with German sausage include sauerkraut (made without sugar), steamed green vegetables, a simple mixed salad, or a side of low-carb mustard.

Natural sausage casings, made from animal intestines, do not contain carbohydrates. For synthetic casings, checking the packaging is best, but they are generally carb-free. Some processed sausages may use vegetable-based casings with minimal carbs.