The Core Nutritional Breakdown for Lemon & Herb PERinaise
Nando's Lemon & Herb PERinaise is a creamy, zesty mayonnaise-style sauce that adds a mild, flavorful kick to any meal. When examining its nutritional value, it's crucial to look at both the standard serving size and the per-100g breakdown for a complete picture. Based on nutritional information from retailers and food databases, the figures are consistent across various regions, with minor fluctuations.
For a standard 15g serving (approximately one tablespoon), the calorie count is around 30 calories. This is a key figure for those counting calories or managing their intake on a per-meal basis. The breakdown is primarily from fats, which is typical for a mayonnaise-based product.
Here is a detailed look at the typical nutritional values per 100g:
- Energy: 825 kJ (197 kcal)
- Total Fat: 18.0g
- Saturated Fat: 1.3g
- Carbohydrate: 9.6g
- Sugars: 6.0g
- Protein: 0.3g
- Sodium: 680mg
Serving Size vs. Actual Use
The 15g serving size is a standardized measurement, but many individuals may use more than this when dipping fries or topping a sandwich. A heavy-handed squeeze can easily double or triple the intended serving, proportionally increasing the calorie intake. Being mindful of your portion size is the most effective way to control calories from condiments.
Lemon & Herb Mayo vs. Other Nando's Condiments
It is a common mistake to confuse Nando's Lemon & Herb PERinaise with the Lemon & Herb PERi-PERi Sauce. The latter is a vinegar-based sauce with a significantly lower calorie and fat content. Comparing the Lemon & Herb mayo to other PERinaise and sauce options highlights how the creamy mayonnaise base impacts the overall nutritional profile. The high fat content in mayonnaise-based products is the primary driver of their higher calorie count.
| Condiment | Serving Size | Calories (per serving) | Calories (per 100g) | Fat (per 100g) | Main Ingredients | Key Difference |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| L&H PERinaise | 15g | ~30 kcal | ~200 kcal | ~18g | Rapeseed Oil, Egg Yolk, Spices | Mayonnaise base |
| Hot PERinaise | 15g | ~49 kcal | ~327 kcal | ~29g | Sunflower Oil, Egg Yolk, Spices | Higher fat content |
| Mild PERinaise | 15g | ~46 kcal | ~309 kcal | ~28g | Sunflower Oil, Egg Yolk, Spices | Higher fat content |
| L&H PERi-PERi Sauce | 20g | ~11 kcal | ~50 kcal | ~4.3g | Water, Vinegar, Lemon Puree, Oil | Vinegar-based, lower fat |
What's in Nando's Lemon & Herb PERinaise?
Understanding the ingredients provides insight into the nutritional composition. The list for Lemon & Herb PERinaise reveals its primary components:
- Water
- Rapeseed Oil: A significant source of the total fat and calories.
- Sugar: Added for flavor balance.
- Corn Starch: Acts as a thickener.
- Vinegar: Adds tanginess.
- Egg and Egg Yolks: Provides the rich, creamy texture characteristic of mayonnaise.
- Lemon Puree, Salt, Spices, and Herbs: Delivers the distinct Lemon & Herb flavor profile.
Dietary Considerations
According to Nando's product information, their PERinaise varieties are often suitable for vegetarians and gluten-free diets, but it's always best to check the specific product label for confirmation. The presence of egg yolks means it is not vegan-friendly. The inclusion of mustard as an ingredient also makes it important for those with allergies to note.
Tips for Enjoying Nando's Mayo Mindfully
While delicious, creamy sauces like mayonnaise add calories and fat to meals. Here are some tips for enjoying Nando's Lemon & Herb PERinaise while being mindful of your intake:
- Measure your portion: Instead of squeezing freely, use a measuring spoon to stick to the intended serving size.
- Alternate with lower-calorie options: For times when you want a similar flavor with fewer calories, consider using Nando's Lemon & Herb PERi-PERi Sauce or simply a spritz of lemon juice.
- Use it as a flavor booster: Mix a small amount of the mayo into a larger quantity of a lighter base, like Greek yogurt, for a creamy but lower-calorie dressing.
- Pair with lean protein: Drizzle the mayo on grilled chicken breast or fish rather than fattier cuts to balance the meal's overall fat content.
- Limit dipping: Instead of dipping each item, use the mayo sparingly on sandwiches or in wraps where the flavor can be distributed more evenly.
Conclusion
In summary, Nando's Lemon & Herb PERinaise contains approximately 30 calories per 15g serving, which primarily comes from its rapeseed oil content. This makes it a significantly more calorific option than the much lower-fat Lemon & Herb PERi-PERi Sauce. By understanding the nutritional breakdown and practicing mindful portion control, you can continue to enjoy this flavorful condiment as part of a balanced diet. For the most precise nutritional data, always check the packaging of the specific product you have purchased.
For more product details, you can visit the Nando's official product page at Nando's UK.
