The Calorie Count: Bakery vs. Great Value
When asking how many calories are in a Walmart glazed donut, it's important to differentiate between products. Walmart sells donuts both fresh from its in-store bakery and in pre-packaged containers under its 'Great Value' brand. The nutritional content varies between these two types due to differences in size, ingredients, and preparation.
A medium, fresh Baker's glazed donut weighs around 64 grams and contains 269 calories. Its calorie composition is heavily skewed towards fat and carbohydrates, specifically sugar. In contrast, the Great Value 'Old Fashioned Glazed Donut' product has a slightly lower calorie count, coming in at 230 calories for a 2-ounce donut. A different pre-packaged item, the 'Glazed Ring Donuts' by Walmart, weighs about 57 grams and contains 250 calories. These variations highlight the importance of checking the nutritional label for the specific product you are purchasing.
Nutritional Breakdown of a Walmart Bakery Glazed Donut
To understand the 269-calorie figure, let's break down the macronutrient profile of a medium Baker's glazed donut:
- Total Fat: 15g (19% of the Daily Value)
- Saturated Fat: 6g (30% of the Daily Value)
- Cholesterol: 19mg (6% of the Daily Value)
- Sodium: 202mg (9% of the Daily Value)
- Total Carbohydrates: 31g (11% of the Daily Value)
- Dietary Fiber: 1g (5% of the Daily Value)
- Sugars: 15g
- Protein: 4g
This breakdown shows that a significant portion of the calories comes from fat and sugar. The saturated fat content alone accounts for a substantial percentage of the recommended daily intake. For context, the 269 calories are based on a 2,000-calorie daily diet, so for many, this represents a considerable percentage of a single meal's calorie allowance.
How Walmart's Donut Stacks Up Against Competitors
For comparison, here is a table showing the nutritional information for a standard glazed donut from Walmart's bakery and some other well-known brands. Note that these figures can vary based on exact serving size and preparation methods. These comparisons help contextualize the calorie density of Walmart's offering.
| Brand | Donut Type | Calories | Total Fat (g) | Total Sugars (g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Walmart Baker's | Glazed Donut (Medium) | 269 | 15 | 15 |
| Krispy Kreme | Original Glazed® | 190 | 8.8 | 11.6 |
| Dunkin' | Glazed Donut | 269 | 15 | 15 |
As the table shows, Walmart's bakery glazed donut has a calorie and sugar profile very similar to a standard glazed donut from Dunkin', while Krispy Kreme's Original Glazed offers a lower-calorie option. This indicates that store-brand donuts are often not a lower-calorie alternative to larger chains.
Making an Informed Choice
While a single donut can be a delicious treat, its high calorie, sugar, and fat content means it should be consumed in moderation. Here are some tips for enjoying your donut while keeping your health goals in mind:
- Portion Control: Consider sharing the donut or enjoying a smaller portion. The mini glazed donuts also offer a way to control portion size and calories.
- Balanced Diet: Don't let a single donut derail your day. Ensure the rest of your meals are rich in nutrients, fiber, and lean protein to balance out the treat.
- Check the Label: If buying pre-packaged, always read the nutritional information on the box. As seen, Great Value products may differ from the fresh bakery items.
- Alternative Treats: If looking for a lower-calorie alternative, consider fresh fruit or a homemade baked good where you can control the ingredients.
The Bottom Line on Walmart Glazed Donut Calories
In conclusion, a typical medium-sized glazed donut from the Walmart bakery contains 269 calories, with a high proportion of that coming from fat and sugar. The calorie count can differ slightly for Great Value branded donuts and mini varieties. Enjoying a treat like this in moderation is key to a balanced diet. Remember that it's important to account for these calories in your daily intake, as they are not particularly nutrient-dense. For more information on general donut nutrition, refer to resources such as Healthline's article on Glazed Doughnut Nutrition.
