Does Seasoning Count as Calories? The Full Breakdown

October 24, 2025 •

4 min read

According to nutrition experts, all plant-based seasonings contain some calories, but their contribution to your daily intake is typically negligible unless consumed in very large quantities. This is because herbs and spices are used in such small amounts primarily for flavor, not for their energy content.

Quick Summary

Pure herbs and spices contain minimal calories per serving, but calorie counts can increase with larger portions or with blended seasonings containing additives like sugar, oil, or flour. Understanding the calorie content of different seasonings and additives is crucial for accurate calorie tracking, especially when aiming for weight management goals.

Key Points

Negligible for pure spices: The calorie count in pure herbs and spices is generally so low it does not need to be counted for most dietary purposes.
Blends contain hidden calories: Pre-packaged seasoning blends can contain significant calories from added sugar, oil, or flour, which should be considered when counting.
Fresh vs. dried: Fresh herbs are less calorie-dense by weight, but the difference is minimal in cooking, as smaller amounts of dried herbs are used.
Zero-calorie options exist: Salt-free brands like Mrs. Dash offer flavorful, calorie-free seasoning options.
Always check labels: For pre-made mixes, reading the nutrition label is the most accurate way to track added calories.
Enhance flavor naturally: Use fresh herbs, citrus juice, and aromatic vegetables to boost taste without adding calories.

Understanding the Calories in Herbs and Spices

When you're meticulously tracking your calorie intake, it's natural to question whether every small addition to your food, like a sprinkle of seasoning, needs to be counted. The answer is nuanced: while pure herbs and spices do contain some calories, the amount is usually so minimal that it's considered insignificant for most people. The key difference lies between pure, single-ingredient spices and pre-made seasoning blends.

The Calorie Reality of Pure Spices

Pure, dried herbs and spices are essentially dried plant parts, and like all organic matter, they contain energy in the form of calories. However, the amounts are typically so low that they are considered negligible. For example, a teaspoon of dried parsley has only about one calorie, and a teaspoon of ground cumin contains around eight calories. Given that a single dish rarely calls for an entire cup of these ingredients, their impact on your total daily calorie count is minimal. This is why most calorie-counting apps and diets don't bother including them.

Here is a list of common spices and their approximate calories per teaspoon:

Parsley (dried): 1 calorie
Basil (dried): 2 calories
Oregano (dried): 3 calories
Black Pepper: 6 calories
Cinnamon (ground): 6 calories
Curry Powder: 7 calories
Garlic Powder: 10 calories
Nutmeg (ground): 12 calories

The Sneaky Calories in Seasoning Blends

The real concern for those monitoring their calorie intake is with pre-packaged seasoning blends. Many commercial seasoning mixes and rubs contain more than just herbs and spices. To enhance flavor, texture, or shelf life, manufacturers often add other ingredients that can significantly increase the calorie count.

Common additives found in seasoning blends that contribute to calories include:

Sugar and Corn Syrup Solids: Often found in BBQ rubs and some marinades for a sweet flavor and to aid caramelization.
Flour or Starches: Used as anti-caking agents or thickeners, these can add carbohydrates and calories.
Oils: Some blends are pre-mixed with oils for flavor and adherence, increasing the fat content and calories.
Salt: While salt itself is zero-calorie, it can contribute to water retention, which some may mistake for weight gain.

It is essential to read the nutrition label on any store-bought seasoning mix, especially if you are using it in large quantities. A single serving, or even a tablespoon, can have a surprisingly high calorie count, which could add up over time.

Fresh Herbs vs. Dried Spices: What's the Calorie Difference?

Both fresh and dried options contain calories, but their concentration differs. Because fresh herbs contain water, their calorie density is much lower by weight than their dried counterparts. However, because dried herbs are more potent, a smaller quantity is typically used. In most cases, the difference is negligible and not a significant factor in your overall diet.

A Practical Comparison of Seasoning Types

To illustrate the difference, here is a comparison table outlining the caloric impact of different seasoning approaches.


Seasoning Type	Example	Caloric Impact per Serving (approx.)	Considerations
Pure Spices & Herbs	1 tsp ground paprika	~6 calories	Almost always negligible; provides flavor without significant calories.
Zero-Calorie Seasoning	Mrs. Dash, Salt-Free Blends	0 calories	Excellent choice for maximum flavor control with no caloric impact.
Commercial Blend	1 tbsp Taco Seasoning Mix	10-18 calories	Must check labels for added sugar, flour, and oils. Can add up quickly.
Oil-Based Marinade	1 tbsp store-bought Italian dressing	30-50+ calories	Calories primarily come from oil. Watch portion sizes carefully.
Homemade Blend	Your own mix of herbs and spices	Minimal, depending on ingredients	Complete control over ingredients. No hidden calories.

How to Season Smarter for Calorie Control

For those watching their calorie intake, there are several ways to boost flavor without adding unnecessary calories.

Use Fresh Herbs: Maximize flavor with fresh basil, parsley, or cilantro, which provide vibrant taste with minimal calories.
Embrace Natural Aromatics: Sautéing onions, garlic, and ginger can build a flavorful base for many dishes.
Harness Citrus Power: A squeeze of lemon or lime juice adds a bright, fresh flavor without adding any calories.
Create Your Own Blends: Mixing your own spices allows you to control the ingredients and avoid hidden sugars or starches.
Opt for Vinegars: Flavored vinegars, such as balsamic or apple cider, can add a tangy kick with very few calories.

The Final Verdict on Seasoning and Calories

So, does seasoning count as calories? Yes, but for the most part, not enough to worry about. Pure herbs and spices contribute a minuscule amount of calories that will not derail your weight loss or management efforts. The important distinction lies in being mindful of commercial seasoning blends, which can contain calorie-dense additives like sugar or flour. For accurate tracking, especially if you use large quantities of pre-made mixes, always check the nutritional label. For everyday cooking, feel free to be generous with pure herbs and spices—they offer a delicious, virtually calorie-free way to enhance your meals and a better alternative to high-calorie condiments and sauces.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, pure salt is an inorganic mineral and contains zero calories. However, excessive sodium intake can lead to water retention, which may impact perceived weight.

A teaspoon of black pepper contains approximately six calories. This is a very small amount and is generally not significant for overall calorie counting.

Yes, fresh herbs do contain calories, but in such small quantities that they are considered negligible. For example, five sprigs of fresh dill contain less than one calorie.

No, unless you are using unusually large quantities. The calorie content of most dried spices per serving is so low that it is considered a 'rounding error' in the grand scheme of your total daily intake.

The biggest concern lies with pre-made seasoning blends that often have added ingredients like sugar, flour, or oil to enhance flavor or texture. Always read the label on packaged mixes.

Using herbs and spices to add flavor can help reduce overall calories by allowing you to cut back on high-calorie fats like butter, oils, and high-sugar condiments. Seasoning can make healthy foods more palatable without adding significant calories.

Yes, salt-free seasoning brands like Mrs. Dash are genuinely calorie-free because they rely on herbs, spices, and natural flavors instead of calorie-rich ingredients. They are an excellent option for flavor without calories.