The calorie count for a single tablespoon of classic Bonne Maman preserves is consistently around 50 calories. This number holds true across many of their popular flavors, including Strawberry, Apricot, and Four Fruits. The calories in this product are almost entirely derived from carbohydrates, specifically the sugar, with very minimal fat or protein content. A standard tablespoon (20g serving) provides about 13 grams of total carbohydrates, with virtually all of it being sugar. For context, this is the equivalent of about three and a quarter teaspoons of granulated sugar, all of which are included to provide the classic sweet flavor and texture of the preserves.
Variations in Bonne Maman Products
While the classic preserves maintain a consistent calorie count, it is important to note that Bonne Maman offers a variety of products with different nutritional profiles. Their fruit spreads, for example, contain less sugar and are therefore lower in calories per tablespoon. The 'Intense' fruit spreads have even fewer calories, making them a suitable option for those monitoring their sugar intake more closely. The brand also produces jellies and marmalades, which may have slightly different calorie counts depending on the fruit and sugar concentration.
Comparing Preserves, Jams, and Spreads
Understanding the distinction between different types of fruit spreads is key to interpreting their nutritional value. Here's a brief look at how they differ:
- Preserves: These are made with whole or large pieces of fruit suspended in a jelly base. The high fruit content and sugar make them a rich and classic option.
- Jams: Jams are made from crushed fruit or fruit pulp. They have a more uniform consistency than preserves but can be nutritionally similar.
- Fruit Spreads: Typically made with a higher fruit-to-sugar ratio than traditional jams and preserves. Bonne Maman's fruit spreads are specifically formulated to have less sugar and, consequently, fewer calories.
Nutritional Comparison Table: Bonne Maman Products
To provide a clearer picture, here is a comparison of the calorie and sugar content in a 1-tablespoon serving (approx. 20g) of different Bonne Maman products.
| Product Type | Calories (per 1 Tbsp) | Total Sugars (per 1 Tbsp) | Main Ingredients |
|---|---|---|---|
| Classic Preserves (e.g., Strawberry, Apricot) | ~50 kcal | 12-13g | Fruits, Sugar, Brown Cane Sugar, Lemon Juice, Pectin |
| Standard Fruit Spreads (e.g., Strawberry) | ~30 kcal | ~8g | Fruits, Sugar, Blackcurrant Juice, Lemon Juice, Pectin |
| Intense Fruit Spreads (e.g., Apricot) | ~35 kcal | N/A* | More fruit, less added sugar |
| Orange Marmalade | ~50 kcal | ~13g | Fruits (Orange Peel, Orange Juice), Sugar, Brown Cane Sugar, Lemon Juice, Pectin |
| Lemon Curd | ~70 kcal | N/A* | Sugar, Eggs, Lemon, Butter |
*Sugar content may vary slightly or is not explicitly listed in the provided snippets for the specific flavor but is generally lower.
How to Account for Jam Calories in Your Diet
For most people, a tablespoon of Bonne Maman jam is a small part of their daily caloric intake. The key to moderation is portion control. It is easy to go over the recommended serving size when spreading it on toast or adding it to yogurt. For individuals on a low-sugar or calorie-controlled diet, paying close attention to these small details can be beneficial.
One strategy is to measure your serving rather than eyeballing it. Another is to opt for the lower-sugar fruit spreads offered by Bonne Maman, which deliver a similar fruit flavor profile with a reduced calorie impact. Combining your jam with high-fiber foods, like whole-grain toast or oatmeal, can help increase satiety and slow the absorption of sugar.
Conclusion
To answer the question directly, a single tablespoon of classic Bonne Maman jam contains approximately 50 calories, with most of these coming from sugar. However, the exact calorie count can fluctuate depending on the specific product, with lower-calorie fruit spreads also available. For those mindful of their sugar and calorie intake, measuring portions and considering the alternative fruit spread options can make a significant difference. Ultimately, enjoying jam in moderation as part of a balanced diet is the most sustainable approach for managing calorie intake while still enjoying this delicious treat.
Sources
- iHerb
- MyFoodDiary
- Eat This Much
- Bonne Maman US
- New Seasons Market
