Does Sliced Pepperoni Have Carbs? A Low-Carb Nutrition Guide

October 23, 2025 •

3 min read

A 1-ounce serving of standard pepperoni typically contains 0 to 1 gram of total carbohydrates, making it a staple for many low-carb and ketogenic diets. So, does sliced pepperoni have carbs? The short answer is very few, if any, but the full nutritional picture is more nuanced.

Quick Summary

Sliced pepperoni is a very low-carb, high-fat food, often containing 0-1 gram of carbohydrates per serving, making it suitable for keto diets. It is, however, high in sodium and saturated fat, so moderation is key for a balanced diet.

Key Points

Very Low to Zero Carbs: A standard serving of sliced pepperoni typically contains 0-1 gram of total carbohydrates, making it an excellent choice for low-carb and keto diets.
High in Fat and Protein: Pepperoni is calorie-dense, deriving most of its energy from fat and a moderate amount from protein.
Read the Label for Added Sugars: Some brands may include dextrose or other sugars, so always check the nutrition label to confirm the minimal carb count.
High Sodium Content: Pepperoni is high in sodium due to the curing process, necessitating mindful consumption, especially for those with blood pressure concerns.
Turkey vs. Pork/Beef: Turkey pepperoni is a leaner, higher-protein option compared to traditional pork and beef varieties, but both are very low-carb.
Moderation is Key: Despite being low in carbs, the high saturated fat and sodium content mean pepperoni is best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

The Macronutrient Breakdown of Sliced Pepperoni

Pepperoni is a cured salami made from a combination of pork and beef, seasoned with paprika or other chili peppers. As a meat product, its nutritional profile is primarily composed of fat and protein, with a negligible amount of carbohydrates. On average, a 1-ounce serving (approximately 28 grams) of pepperoni contains around 12-13 grams of fat, 5-6 grams of protein, and very little to no carbs. This high-fat, low-carb composition is what makes it a popular ingredient in ketogenic and other low-carb eating plans.

Standard vs. Turkey Pepperoni: A Nutritional Comparison

When choosing pepperoni, you may encounter standard (pork and beef) and turkey varieties. While both are very low in carbohydrates, there are notable differences in their fat content and overall nutritional value.


Feature	Standard Pepperoni	Turkey Pepperoni
Fat Content	Higher (approx. 12-13g per 1 oz)	Lower (approx. 9g per 1 oz)
Protein Content	Moderate (approx. 5-6g per 1 oz)	Higher (approx. 9g per 1 oz)
Carbohydrates	Very low (0-1g per 1 oz)	Very low (0-1g per 1 oz)
Saturated Fat	Higher	Lower
Sodium	High	High (check labels)
Calories	Higher (approx. 130-140 kcal per 1 oz)	Lower (check labels)

Turkey pepperoni offers a leaner alternative for those watching their fat intake, but it is important to check the nutrition labels for specific brands, as sodium levels can still be high.

Ingredients to Watch Out For: Reading the Fine Print

While the carbohydrate content of pepperoni is consistently low, not all pepperoni is created equal. Some processed versions may contain additives that slightly increase the carb count.

Added Sugars: Some brands include dextrose or corn syrup in the curing process, which can add trace amounts of carbohydrates. Always check the ingredient list to ensure it doesn't contain these added sugars.
Preservatives: Pepperoni is a cured meat, and this process involves the use of nitrates or nitrites. While these are necessary for preservation and preventing bacterial growth, some individuals prefer to choose nitrate-free versions.
Fillers: Lower-quality pepperoni may contain unnecessary fillers or starches. A good quality pepperoni should have a short ingredient list, primarily featuring meat, salt, and spices.

Incorporating Pepperoni into a Low-Carb Diet

Pepperoni's minimal carb content and high fat profile make it a versatile ingredient for those on a keto or low-carb diet. Here are some popular ways to use it:

Quick Snack: Enjoy slices of pepperoni on their own for a satisfying, high-fat, low-carb snack.
Keto Pepperoni Chips: Bake pepperoni slices on a baking sheet until crispy for a crunchy, flavorful alternative to crackers or potato chips.
Pizza Topping: Use it on a low-carb pizza crust made from cauliflower, almond flour, or a “fathead” dough.
Salad Topper: Add a boost of flavor and fat to your salads by chopping up some pepperoni.
Roll-Ups: Pair pepperoni with cheese and a low-carb sauce for an easy, savory roll-up snack.

Considerations for Mindful Consumption

While pepperoni is a great low-carb choice, its high saturated fat and sodium content warrant careful consideration, especially for those with health concerns.

Sodium: The high sodium content, which helps preserve the meat, can be a concern for individuals with high blood pressure or other cardiovascular issues.
Saturated Fat: The high proportion of saturated fat means it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet rich in other healthy fats from sources like avocados, nuts, and olive oil.
Processed Meat: As a processed meat, some nutritional experts recommend limiting its intake. Opting for higher-quality brands with minimal additives can be a better choice.

Conclusion: The Low-Carb Answer and Beyond

In conclusion, sliced pepperoni does have carbs, but in such small, negligible amounts (typically 0-1 gram per serving) that it is considered a low-carb and keto-friendly food. Its nutritional value primarily comes from fat and protein. While it is a convenient and flavorful option for those watching their carb intake, it is also high in sodium and saturated fat. Mindful consumption, checking ingredient labels for added sugars, and balancing it with other nutrient-dense foods are key to enjoying pepperoni as part of a healthy diet. Ultimately, a balanced approach ensures you can enjoy the zesty flavor of pepperoni without derailing your nutritional goals.

For further information on integrating processed meats into a low-carb diet, the Diet Doctor resource offers helpful perspectives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, pepperoni is considered keto-friendly because of its very low carbohydrate content and high fat and protein profile, which aligns with the macronutrient ratios of a ketogenic diet.

Both standard (pork/beef) and turkey pepperoni are typically very low in carbohydrates, often containing 0-1 gram per serving. The main difference is that turkey pepperoni is a leaner alternative with less fat.

A single, small slice of pepperoni usually contains 0 grams of carbohydrates. The trace amounts sometimes seen on nutrition labels apply to larger serving sizes, like 1 ounce or multiple slices.

Pepperoni is high in sodium because salt is a key component in the curing and preserving process. It helps to enhance flavor and prevent spoilage.

While low in carbs, excessive pepperoni consumption can be detrimental due to its high levels of saturated fat and sodium, which can contribute to high cholesterol and blood pressure if not moderated.

Many brands list 0g total carbohydrates per serving, effectively making them carb-free for practical purposes, as long as you read the ingredient list for any sneaky added sugars.

When buying pepperoni for a low-carb diet, check the ingredients for added sugars like dextrose. Opt for brands with a simple ingredient list, mainly featuring meat, salt, and spices.