Delving into the Del Taco Small Fry
For many fast-food enthusiasts, the side of fries is a non-negotiable part of the meal. Del Taco's crinkle-cut fries are a popular choice, known for their distinctive shape and satisfying crunch. Understanding the nutritional content, including the calorie count, is helpful for those tracking their diet. A small order of Del Taco crinkle-cut fries is reported to have around 160 calories. This places it on the lower end of the calorie spectrum compared to larger sizes and more indulgent menu options.
Nutritional Breakdown of a Small Order
Beyond just the total energy content, it's beneficial to look at the macronutrient breakdown that makes up the 160 calories. A typical small serving (around 85g) breaks down roughly as follows:
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 190mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 17g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Total Sugars: 0g
- Protein: 2g
It is important to note that nutritional information can vary slightly between locations and over time, so checking the most current data on the official Del Taco website is always recommended for the highest accuracy.
Comparing Del Taco Fry Sizes
To understand how the small fry fits into the menu, it is useful to compare its nutritional profile with the other available sizes. Choosing a smaller portion can have a significant impact on your overall calorie consumption during a meal.
| Item | Serving Size (g) | Calories | Total Fat (g) | Sodium (mg) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small Crinkle-Cut Fries | ~85 | ~160 | ~10 | ~190 |
| Medium Crinkle-Cut Fries | ~170 | ~320 | ~17 | ~320 |
| Macho Crinkle-Cut Fries | ~248 | ~470 | ~22 | ~470 |
As the table demonstrates, the calories, fat, and sodium increase significantly with each larger size. The medium fry effectively doubles the calories of the small, while the macho size nearly triples it. This highlights that portion control is a simple yet effective strategy for managing your intake at Del Taco.
The Bigger Picture: Fries and Your Diet
While a small order of fries can be a moderate addition to a meal, it's crucial to consider the context of your overall diet. French fries are typically high in calories from fat and carbohydrates due to the deep-frying process. Del Taco's crinkle-cut fries are made with potatoes, vegetable oil, dextrose, and sodium acid pyrophosphate. The type of vegetable oil and the length of the frying time are key variables that impact the final calorie count. While the fats and carbs provide a source of energy, fries offer minimal other beneficial nutrients like vitamins or minerals.
For a more balanced meal, consider pairing your Del Taco entree with a side that offers more fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Options like the 8 Layer Veggie Burrito (540 calories) or an Avocado Veggie Bowl (470 calories) can be more filling and nutrient-dense choices. If you can't resist the fries, sticking to the small size is the most sensible approach. Avoid any of the loaded fry options, like the Chili Cheddar Fries, which add considerable calories, saturated fat, and sodium.
The Impact of Ingredients and Preparation
The main calorie contributors in any french fry are the potato and the frying oil. Potatoes themselves are relatively low in calories but are rich in carbohydrates. However, when a potato is deep-fried, it absorbs a substantial amount of the cooking oil. Since fats contain 9 calories per gram compared to carbohydrates and protein at 4 calories per gram, the frying process is what dramatically increases the final calorie density. The vegetable oil used can also affect the fat profile, with different types having varying levels of saturated and unsaturated fats. Del Taco's ingredient statement mentions using vegetable oil that contains one or more of several oils, including canola, soybean, cottonseed, sunflower, and corn oil.
Conclusion
In summary, a small order of Del Taco crinkle-cut fries contains about 160 calories, making it a relatively moderate side dish option compared to other offerings on the menu. The calorie count is primarily driven by the fats absorbed during the frying process. By choosing the small size over larger or loaded alternatives, you can enjoy this tasty treat while keeping your overall calorie and fat intake in check. As with any fast-food item, moderation is key to maintaining a healthy and balanced diet.
For the most up-to-date information, always check the nutritional details on Del Taco's official website: Del Taco Menu.
