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How Many Calories Are in 330g of Tomatoes?

4 min read

Tomatoes are composed of over 90% water, which contributes to their extremely low calorie density. For those managing their intake, knowing precisely how many calories are in 330g of tomatoes is key to planning a healthy, low-calorie meal.

Quick Summary

The calorie count for 330g of raw tomatoes is approximately 59-60 calories, making them a low-calorie, nutrient-dense food. This article details the specific calorie breakdown and explores the abundant health benefits, including antioxidants and fiber content.

Key Points

  • Low Calorie Count: 330g of raw tomatoes contains approximately 59-60 calories, making them ideal for weight management.

  • Rich in Nutrients: Tomatoes are an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K1, as well as potassium and folate.

  • High in Lycopene: They are rich in lycopene, an antioxidant that offers powerful protection against free radicals and chronic diseases.

  • Cooking Increases Antioxidants: Cooking tomatoes with a healthy fat like olive oil can increase the bioavailability of lycopene, making it easier for the body to absorb.

  • Promotes Satiety: With a high water and fiber content, tomatoes help you feel full, which can aid in reducing overall calorie intake.

  • Versatile Ingredient: Tomatoes are extremely versatile and can be incorporated into a wide variety of meals, from salads and sandwiches to sauces and soups.

In This Article

Calculating the Calorie Count for 330g of Tomatoes

To determine the precise calorie count for 330g of tomatoes, we can rely on standard nutritional data. On average, a raw, ripe tomato contains approximately 18 calories per 100g. Using this widely accepted figure, the calculation for 330g is straightforward.

The Standard Raw Tomato

The average calorie value for raw tomatoes is a reliable starting point. At 18 calories per 100g, tomatoes are considered a low-calorie food, which is why they are often recommended for weight management. This calculation assumes you are using a standard, red, ripe tomato.

A Quick Calculation

Here's the simple math for a 330g serving:

  • Step 1: Find the calories per gram: 18 calories / 100g = 0.18 calories per gram.
  • Step 2: Multiply by the serving size: 0.18 calories/g * 330g = 59.4 calories.

Therefore, 330g of raw tomatoes contains approximately 59-60 calories. This low-energy count makes a significant portion of tomatoes a satisfying addition to any meal without a high caloric cost.

Nutritional Profile Beyond the Calories

While the low-calorie count is impressive, the true value of tomatoes lies in their rich nutritional content. They are packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and powerful antioxidants.

Essential Vitamins and Minerals

Tomatoes are an excellent source of several key micronutrients essential for overall health.

  • Vitamin C: A powerful antioxidant that supports the immune system and skin health. A 330g serving can provide a significant portion of your daily recommended intake.
  • Potassium: An important mineral for regulating blood pressure and fluid balance. The high potassium content in tomatoes supports heart health.
  • Vitamin K1: Crucial for blood clotting and bone health.
  • Folate (Vitamin B9): Essential for normal tissue growth and cell function.

Antioxidants: The Power of Lycopene

Tomatoes are particularly famous for their high concentration of lycopene, a potent antioxidant responsible for their red color. Lycopene has been linked to numerous health benefits.

  • It helps protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
  • Studies suggest that lycopene may help reduce the risk of certain cancers, especially prostate cancer.
  • It also contributes to a lower risk of cardiovascular disease.

Notably, the bioavailability of lycopene is higher when tomatoes are cooked, particularly with a small amount of healthy fat like olive oil, which can increase absorption.

Calorie Comparison: Raw vs. Prepared Tomatoes

It's important to recognize that the preparation method significantly impacts the final calorie count. The addition of other ingredients can change a low-calorie tomato into a calorie-dense dish. Here is a comparison to illustrate the difference.

Tomato Preparation Approximate Calories (per 100g) Calorie Comments
Raw, ripe tomato ~18 kcal A natural, low-calorie, and hydrating option.
Sun-dried tomatoes ~258 kcal Much higher due to water loss and concentration of sugars.
Sun-dried tomatoes in oil ~213 kcal Added oil dramatically increases the fat and calorie content.
Canned tomato sauce ~24 kcal Still low-calorie, but often contains added salt or sugar.
Stewed tomatoes ~79 kcal Calories increase due to added ingredients like sugar and oil.

The Role of Tomatoes in a Healthy Diet

Thanks to their low-calorie and high-nutrient profile, tomatoes are a valuable component of a balanced diet, especially for those with specific health goals.

Weight Management and Satiety

Because they are high in water and dietary fiber, tomatoes can contribute to a feeling of fullness, or satiety. Eating satisfying, low-calorie foods is a key strategy for weight management. By filling up on nutrient-dense foods like tomatoes, you may naturally reduce your overall caloric intake without feeling deprived.

Incorporating Tomatoes into Your Meals

Tomatoes are incredibly versatile and can be used in a wide variety of dishes.

  • In salads: A simple way to add volume, flavor, and nutrients to any salad.
  • As a snack: Cherry or grape tomatoes are perfect for a quick, healthy snack.
  • Homemade sauces: Creating your own tomato-based sauce for pasta or pizza allows you to control the ingredients and avoid excessive sugar and sodium.
  • Soups and stews: Tomatoes form a delicious and nutritious base for many soups and stews.
  • Grilled or roasted: Roasting tomatoes enhances their natural sweetness, making them a fantastic side dish.
  • Salsa: A fresh tomato salsa is a healthy, flavor-packed accompaniment for various foods.

For a boost of lycopene, enjoy cooked tomatoes with a healthy fat, like in a classic pasta sauce with olive oil. For a dose of vitamin C and fiber, opt for fresh, raw tomatoes.

Conclusion

In summary, 330g of raw, ripe tomatoes contains a very modest 59-60 calories, confirming their status as a low-calorie and diet-friendly food. However, their contribution to a healthy lifestyle extends far beyond this number, offering a wealth of vitamins, minerals, and potent antioxidants like lycopene. Whether enjoyed raw or cooked, tomatoes can be a delicious and nutritious addition to any meal plan, supporting weight management and overall wellness.

For more detailed nutritional information, consult a reliable resource like Healthline.

Frequently Asked Questions

Cooking tomatoes does not significantly increase their intrinsic calorie count. However, the total calories will rise if you add ingredients like oil, sugar, or cheese during the cooking process.

According to standard nutritional data, there are approximately 18 calories in 100g of raw, ripe tomatoes.

Yes, calorie counts can vary slightly by variety. For example, 330g of cherry tomatoes contains approximately 59 calories, which is very similar to standard ripe tomatoes.

Yes, sun-dried tomatoes are significantly higher in calories. The drying process removes most of the water, concentrating the sugars and nutrients, leading to a much higher calorie density per 100g.

Yes, tomatoes are excellent for weight loss. They are low in calories and high in water and fiber, which helps promote a feeling of fullness and supports a reduced overall calorie intake.

Both raw and cooked tomatoes offer unique benefits. Raw tomatoes are a better source of vitamin C, while cooked tomatoes have higher levels of bioavailable lycopene. It's best to consume both forms for maximum nutritional benefit.

Tomatoes support heart health through their rich content of lycopene and potassium. Lycopene has been associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases, while potassium helps regulate blood pressure.

References

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Medical Disclaimer

This content is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice.