Understanding the Calorie Count: How Many Calories Are in 100 g of Grape Tomatoes?
Grape tomatoes are a popular and convenient food for many health-conscious individuals. Their small size and burst of flavor make them a staple in salads, side dishes, and as a simple snack. When considering how many calories are in 100 g of grape tomatoes, the answer is remarkably low. A standard 100-gram serving contains approximately 18 calories. This minimal energy contribution comes predominantly from carbohydrates, with a small amount of protein and fat rounding out the macronutrient profile. Their high water content, which makes up about 95% of their weight, further contributes to their low-calorie density.
Nutritional Breakdown of a 100g Serving
Beyond just the low-calorie count, a 100-gram serving of grape tomatoes offers a range of beneficial nutrients. Their simple macronutrient composition is what keeps the calorie count down, making them a filling yet light option. A typical serving breaks down as follows:
- Calories: 18 kcal
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 4 grams, with about 3 grams of net carbs
- Fiber: Around 1 gram, which aids in digestion and satiety
- Sugar: About 3 grams
- Protein: Approximately 1 gram
- Fat: A negligible 0.2 grams
These tiny tomatoes are also a source of essential vitamins and minerals. They are particularly known for their high content of Vitamin A and Vitamin C, which act as powerful antioxidants. Additionally, they provide potassium, which is vital for maintaining healthy blood pressure and fluid balance.
Comparing Grape Tomatoes with Other Tomato Varieties
While grape tomatoes are a great low-calorie choice, it's helpful to see how they stack up against other popular tomato types. The nutritional differences between small tomato varieties like grape and cherry are minimal, with most variations depending on ripeness and brand. Larger tomatoes also have a very similar profile per 100 grams, with the main variations coming from slight differences in water and sugar content.
| Feature | Grape Tomatoes (per 100g) | Cherry Tomatoes (per 100g) | Standard Tomato (per 100g) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Calories | ~18 kcal | ~25 kcal | ~18-20 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | ~4 g | ~4 g | ~4 g |
| Fat | ~0.2 g | <0.5 g | ~0.2 g |
| Fiber | ~1 g | ~1 g | ~1.2 g |
| Lycopene | High, though slightly lower than cooked tomatoes | High | High |
| Flavor | Sweet, less watery | Sweeter, slightly more acidic | Milder, more watery |
The Health Benefits of Snacking on Grape Tomatoes
Choosing grape tomatoes as a regular part of your diet offers more than just low calories. They are nutrient-dense powerhouses that can support overall health in several ways:
- Antioxidant Protection: Rich in lycopene, a potent antioxidant, grape tomatoes help protect the body from oxidative stress. Lycopene is also associated with reduced risks of certain cancers and improved heart health.
- Heart Health: Their potassium content helps regulate blood pressure, while fiber assists in managing cholesterol levels.
- Immune System Support: Both Vitamin C and Vitamin A are crucial for a healthy immune system, helping to fight off infections.
- Skin and Eye Health: Vitamin A, derived from beta-carotene in tomatoes, is essential for good vision and skin protection. The antioxidants also contribute to skin health and can help slow down the aging process.
- Weight Management: Their high water and fiber content promote satiety, helping you feel full on fewer calories, making them an excellent snack for weight management.
Creative Ways to Incorporate Grape Tomatoes
Grape tomatoes are a versatile ingredient that can be used in many dishes, both raw and cooked. Their firm texture makes them less prone to getting soggy than other tomato varieties.
- Roasted: Roasting grape tomatoes with a drizzle of olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs like basil or oregano intensifies their sweetness and flavor. They can be added to pasta, used as a pizza topping, or served as a side dish.
- Salads and Wraps: Add them whole or halved to salads for a burst of flavor and texture. They also work wonderfully in wraps or sandwiches.
- Salsas and Bruschetta: Their firm flesh holds up well in fresh salsas or chunky bruschetta toppings.
- Skewers: Pair them with mozzarella balls and fresh basil for simple and attractive caprese skewers.
- Pasta Sauce: While often used raw, cooking them down gently can create a simple, fresh sauce.
Conclusion: A Healthy and Low-Calorie Choice
For those wondering how many calories are in 100 g of grape tomatoes, the answer is a very favorable approximately 18 calories. This low-energy density, combined with their rich profile of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants like lycopene, makes them a highly nutritious food choice. They are an easy addition to any meal plan, whether you are seeking weight management, enhanced antioxidant intake, or simply a healthy and delicious snack. Their versatility and robust flavor ensure they can be enjoyed in countless ways while providing significant health benefits.
Visit the USDA FoodData Central for more detailed nutritional information on various foods.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many calories are in a single grape tomato?
A single grape tomato contains roughly 1 calorie, as a 100-gram serving averages around 18 calories, and each tomato weighs just a few grams.
Are grape tomatoes good for weight loss?
Yes, grape tomatoes are excellent for weight loss. They are low in calories and high in water and fiber, which helps promote a feeling of fullness without adding excessive calories to your diet.
Do grape tomatoes have more calories than cherry tomatoes?
The calorie content of grape tomatoes and cherry tomatoes is very similar. Any small variations are typically minor and depend on the specific variety, ripeness, and growing conditions.
What are the main nutrients in grape tomatoes?
Grape tomatoes are rich in Vitamins A and C, potassium, and the antioxidant lycopene. They also contain small amounts of fiber and other minerals.
Is it better to eat grape tomatoes cooked or raw?
Both raw and cooked grape tomatoes are healthy. Cooking tomatoes, especially with a little bit of fat like olive oil, can increase the bioavailability of lycopene, a key antioxidant. However, eating them raw preserves more Vitamin C.
Can grape tomatoes help improve my skin?
Yes, the Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and other antioxidants present in grape tomatoes can contribute to healthier skin by protecting against sun damage and fighting signs of aging.
Are grape tomatoes high in sugar?
No, grape tomatoes are not high in sugar. While they contain natural sugars, a 100-gram serving only has about 3 grams of sugar, making them a low-sugar fruit option.
