How many calories are in 72 g of cherry tomatoes?

November 19, 2025 •

3 min read

According to nutrition data, 72 grams of cherry tomatoes contains approximately 13 calories. This makes them an exceptionally low-calorie snack, perfect for those monitoring their intake. Beyond their minimal calorie count, they offer a wealth of nutrients, including vitamins and antioxidants.

Quick Summary

A 72-gram serving of cherry tomatoes has about 13 calories. This small portion is also rich in essential nutrients like Vitamin C and potassium, making them a very healthy and low-energy-density food choice.

Key Points

13 Calories: A 72-gram serving of cherry tomatoes contains only about 13 calories, making it a very low-energy food.
Rich in Lycopene: The vibrant red color indicates a high concentration of lycopene, a potent antioxidant with numerous health benefits.
Source of Vitamins: They are an excellent source of essential vitamins, including Vitamin C and Vitamin K.
High Water and Fiber Content: With a high water and fiber content, cherry tomatoes contribute to a feeling of fullness, aiding in weight management.
Versatile and Nutritious: These tomatoes can be incorporated into diets in various ways, from salads to roasted dishes, while providing significant nutritional value for minimal calories.

Calorie and Nutritional Profile of 72g of Cherry Tomatoes

Understanding the nutritional value of what we eat is a cornerstone of a healthy lifestyle. When it comes to a specific serving size, such as 72 grams of cherry tomatoes, the numbers are quite favorable for those watching their weight or simply aiming for a nutrient-rich diet. With only about 13 calories, this snack provides a satisfying bite without a significant caloric impact.

The low-calorie density is a major advantage. You can eat a relatively large volume of cherry tomatoes to feel full, but consume a minimal amount of calories in the process. This is primarily due to their high water content and dietary fiber. The macronutrient breakdown for this serving is also interesting, consisting mainly of carbohydrates, with very little fat and a small amount of protein.

Macronutrient Breakdown for 72g

Carbohydrates: Roughly 3 grams, mostly from natural sugars.
Fiber: Approximately 1 gram, which aids in digestion and satiety.
Protein: Around 1 gram.
Fat: Minimal, at only about 0.1 grams.

Micronutrients and Health Benefits

Beyond the basic macronutrients, cherry tomatoes are packed with vitamins and minerals that contribute to overall health. Their bright red color is a tell-tale sign of their antioxidant content, particularly lycopene, which is well-known for its health-promoting properties. Here is a list of some of the key micronutrients found in a 72g serving:

Vitamin C: An excellent source for immune support.
Potassium: Essential for maintaining proper fluid balance and blood pressure.
Vitamin K: Important for blood clotting and bone health.
Folate (B9): Crucial for cell growth and metabolism.
Lycopene: A powerful antioxidant linked to reduced risk of several chronic diseases.

Comparison Table: Cherry Tomatoes vs. Other Snacks

To put the calorie count of cherry tomatoes into perspective, let's compare a similar-sized portion to a few other common snack foods.


Snack (72g)	Approximate Calories	Key Nutrients	Comparison	Calorie Impact
Cherry Tomatoes	~13 kcal	Vitamin C, K, Lycopene	High in nutrients, low in calories.	Minimal
Potato Chips	~390 kcal	Potassium, Saturated Fat	High in calories, often high in sodium.	High
Pretzels	~290 kcal	Sodium, Carbohydrates	Low fat, but high in refined carbs.	Moderate-High
Baby Carrots	~26 kcal	Vitamin A, Fiber	Slightly more calories, also very healthy.	Minimal
Apple Slices	~38 kcal	Fiber, Vitamin C	More calories, but good source of fiber.	Low

This comparison clearly illustrates that cherry tomatoes are an excellent choice for a low-calorie, nutrient-dense snack. They provide a high volume of food for a very small energy cost, which is particularly beneficial for weight management.

Incorporating Cherry Tomatoes into Your Diet

There are countless ways to enjoy the mild, sweet flavor of cherry tomatoes. Their small size makes them incredibly versatile for both cooking and snacking. Here are a few simple ideas:

Salads: Toss them whole into a garden salad or a pasta salad for a burst of flavor.
Roasted: Halve them and roast with a little olive oil, garlic, and herbs until they are soft and slightly caramelized. This process actually helps to release more lycopene, making it more bioavailable.
Snack Pack: Pair them with a low-fat cheese or a few nuts for a more substantial, yet still healthy, snack.
Caprese Skewers: Thread cherry tomatoes, small mozzarella balls, and fresh basil leaves onto skewers. Drizzle with a balsamic glaze for a perfect appetizer.
Salsa: Chop them up for a fresh, chunky salsa that is delicious with grilled chicken or fish.

Conclusion

In summary, 72 grams of cherry tomatoes contain a negligible amount of calories, approximately 13 kcal. This, combined with their rich profile of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants like lycopene, solidifies their status as a nutritional powerhouse. Whether you are aiming to lose weight, maintain a healthy diet, or simply enjoy a delicious, fresh snack, cherry tomatoes are an excellent and versatile choice. Their low-calorie density allows for a satisfying portion size, making them a smart and healthy addition to any meal plan.

For more detailed nutritional information and a breakdown of different serving sizes, you can visit the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) website, a reliable resource for nutritional data.

Frequently Asked Questions

The number of cherry tomatoes in 72 grams can vary depending on their size, but it typically equates to about 6 to 8 medium-sized cherry tomatoes.

Yes, cherry tomatoes are excellent for weight loss. They are low in calories and high in water and fiber, which helps you feel full without consuming many calories, supporting a calorie-controlled diet.

One of the most notable nutrients in cherry tomatoes is lycopene, a powerful antioxidant. They are also a great source of Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and potassium.

Cooking cherry tomatoes does not significantly change their calorie count. However, it can increase the bioavailability of some nutrients, like lycopene, making them easier for your body to absorb.

While both are healthy snacks, 72 grams of grapes contains significantly more calories than 72 grams of cherry tomatoes. Grapes are higher in sugar and thus have a higher energy density.

While highly nutritious, consuming excessively large amounts of any single food is not recommended. Overconsumption could lead to minor stomach discomfort in some individuals due to the acidity.

Canned or processed cherry tomatoes may contain added salt or sugars, which can alter their nutritional profile and calorie count. Opt for fresh cherry tomatoes to ensure you are getting the most natural and lowest-calorie option.