Calorie Count in a 45g Serving
A 45-gram serving of grape tomatoes typically contains a very modest 8 to 9 calories. This small serving is roughly equivalent to about 6 to 8 individual grape tomatoes, depending on their exact size. This incredibly low-calorie count makes them a perfect snack or addition to any meal, particularly for those monitoring their caloric intake.
The calories primarily come from carbohydrates, specifically natural sugars and fiber, with negligible amounts of fat and protein.
Complete Nutritional Breakdown for 45g Grape Tomatoes
Beyond just calories, 45 grams of grape tomatoes offers a surprising amount of nutrients. The precise values can vary slightly based on the specific tomato variety and growing conditions, but general estimates are consistent with USDA data.
Here is a detailed look at the macronutrients and key micronutrients found in this serving size:
- Calories: 8-9 kcal
- Total Fat: ~0.1 g
- Total Carbohydrates: ~2 g
- Dietary Fiber: ~1 g
- Sugars: ~1 g
- Protein: ~0.4 g
- Sodium: ~2-3 mg
- Potassium: ~107-114 mg
- Vitamin C: ~6-7 mg (around 7-8% of Daily Value)
- Vitamin A: ~19 mcg (around 2% of Daily Value)
- Lycopene: ~1158 mcg
This breakdown demonstrates that grape tomatoes are an excellent source of hydration (being over 95% water) and essential vitamins, especially Vitamin C and various antioxidants.
Comparison Table: Grape Tomatoes vs. Other Tomato Varieties
To put the calorie count in perspective, here is a comparison of 100-gram servings of different types of raw tomatoes.
| Tomato Variety | Serving Size | Calories | Carbohydrates | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grape Tomatoes | 100 g | 18 kcal | 3.9 g | Small, sweet, firm texture |
| Cherry Tomatoes | 100 g | 18 kcal | 3.9 g | Round, juicy, slightly tarter |
| Medium Red Tomato | 100 g | 18 kcal | 3.9 g | Classic, versatile, higher water content |
| Roma (Plum) Tomatoes | 100 g | ~20 kcal | ~4.3 g | Meaty texture, ideal for sauces |
As the table indicates, the calorie density across raw tomato varieties is very similar, hovering around 18-20 calories per 100 grams.
Health Benefits of Incorporating Grape Tomatoes into Your Diet
Adding grape tomatoes to your daily meals goes beyond just managing calories. They are packed with beneficial compounds that contribute to overall wellness:
- Rich in Lycopene: This powerful antioxidant is responsible for the tomato's red color and has been linked to numerous health benefits, including heart health and protection against certain types of cancer.
- Excellent Source of Vitamin C: A 45g serving provides a good portion of your daily Vitamin C needs, which is crucial for immune function and collagen production.
- Hydration Support: Given their high water content (over 95%), grape tomatoes are great for staying hydrated, especially during warm weather or after exercise.
- Fiber for Digestion: The fiber content aids in healthy digestion and helps maintain a feeling of fullness.
Conclusion
In summary, 45 g of grape tomatoes contain approximately 8 to 9 calories, confirming their status as a light, healthy food option. They are a smart, low-calorie choice for anyone looking to add flavor, volume, and essential nutrients to salads, snacks, or main dishes without a significant caloric impact. Their rich antioxidant profile and vitamin content make them a valuable addition to a balanced diet. For comprehensive nutritional data, you can refer to authoritative sources like the USDA FoodData Central.
