A standard 300g tin of Batchelors Bigga Marrowfat Processed Peas, once drained of its liquid, contains approximately 153 calories. This is based on a drained weight of around 180g, with 85 calories per 100g of the drained peas. A typical serving, which is half a can or 90g drained, provides about 76 calories.
Decoding the Calories in a Tin of Bigga Peas
To accurately calculate the calories, it's crucial to understand the difference between the total contents and the drained, edible portion. The water and other liquids in the can do not contribute significantly to the calorie count. The focus should always be on the drained weight, which is the solid peas you will be eating.
Nutritional Breakdown (per 100g drained weight)
Beyond just calories, Bigga peas offer a good source of other nutrients. A 100g serving of drained peas contains:
- Energy: 358kJ / 85kcal
- Fat: 0.6g (of which saturates is 0.1g)
- Carbohydrate: 11.8g (of which sugars is 1.7g)
- Fibre: 5.0g
- Protein: 5.6g
- Salt: 0.45g
Understanding the Ingredients
The ingredient list for Batchelors Bigga Marrowfat Processed Peas is straightforward, typically including marrowfat processed peas, water, salt, sugar, colours (such as Riboflavin and Brilliant Blue FCF), and mint flavouring. The processing of the peas, including the soaking and preserving process, is what differentiates them from fresh or frozen varieties.
Comparing Canned Peas: Bigga vs. Alternatives
Choosing between different types of peas can impact your calorie intake and overall nutritional profile. Here is a comparison based on typical drained values per 100g:
| Pea Type | Calories (per 100g drained) | Protein (per 100g) | Fibre (per 100g) | Salt (per 100g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Batchelors Bigga Peas | 85 kcal | 5.6g | 5.0g | 0.45g |
| Sainsbury's Marrowfat Processed Peas | 66 kcal | Not specified | Not specified | Not specified |
| Farrow's Giant Marrowfat Peas | 106 kcal | 7.2g | 6.2g | 0.47g |
| Standard Canned Green Peas | ~72 kcal | ~4.3g | ~2.8g | ~0.43g |
| Fresh Green Peas (Cooked) | ~67 kcal | ~4.3g | ~4.4g | 0.02g |
Health Implications and Benefits
Despite being a processed food, canned peas still offer several health benefits. They are naturally low in fat and sugar, high in fibre, and a good source of plant-based protein. For those looking to increase their daily vegetable intake, a tin of Bigga peas can contribute significantly to one of your five-a-day portions. The primary health consideration is the salt content, which is higher in canned varieties compared to fresh peas due to the preserving process. However, a moderate intake is unlikely to cause issues for most people.
How to Reduce Sodium Intake
If you are watching your salt intake, you can take simple steps to mitigate the effect of canned peas. Rinsing the peas thoroughly under cold water before heating can help to wash away some of the excess sodium from the preserving liquid. You can also opt for lower-salt versions if available or balance your meal by pairing the peas with low-sodium ingredients. You can find more information on the full range of Batchelors products and their nutritional information here: Batchelors Peas website.
Conclusion
In summary, a full 300g tin of Batchelors Bigga Marrowfat Processed Peas contains about 153 calories, based on a drained weight of 180g. These peas provide a decent source of protein and fibre, contributing to your daily vegetable intake. While processed varieties have a higher salt content than fresh peas, they remain a convenient and nutritious option when consumed in moderation. By understanding the nutritional details and preparing them healthily, Bigga peas can be a valuable part of a balanced diet.
