How many calories are in one mustard packet?

December 1, 2025 •

3 min read

According to USDA data cited by Nutritionix, a standard 1-teaspoon mustard packet contains approximately 3 calories. This makes yellow mustard one of the most diet-friendly condiments available and answers the direct question of how many calories are in one mustard packet.

Quick Summary

A standard yellow mustard packet contains a minimal number of calories, typically around 3, with negligible fat and sugar. Its primary ingredients are mustard seed, vinegar, salt, and spices. The low caloric density makes it an excellent option for adding flavor without excess calories, though sodium content should be considered.

Key Points

Low Calories: A standard yellow mustard packet contains approximately 3 to 5 calories.
Negligible Fat: The fat content in a typical packet is very low, contributing minimally to the caloric total.
Very Low Sugar: Unlike many other condiments, yellow mustard packets contain very little to no added sugar.
Variable Sodium: Sodium levels can be moderate to high, so it's important to be mindful of intake, especially for multiple packets.
Healthy Condiment Alternative: Due to its low caloric density, mustard is a great choice for adding flavor while managing your calorie intake.
Variations Matter: Other mustards, like honey mustard, will have higher calorie counts due to added sweeteners.

The Surprising Truth About Mustard Packets

When adding flavor to a hot dog or sandwich, most people don't give a second thought to the small, yellow packet of mustard. However, for those tracking their caloric intake, the low number is a welcome surprise. A standard 1-teaspoon (5-gram) serving of plain yellow mustard is remarkably light on calories, fats, and sugars, making it a favorite for many healthy eaters. The exact caloric value can vary slightly between brands, but it almost always hovers around 3 to 5 calories per packet.

What Exactly Is in a Standard Yellow Mustard Packet?

To understand why a mustard packet is so low in calories, it helps to break down its ingredients. The core components of classic yellow mustard include water, distilled vinegar, mustard seed, salt, turmeric, and paprika. Most of these ingredients are calorie-free or very low in calories individually. The mustard seed provides a small amount of fat, protein, and carbohydrates, which accounts for the minimal calorie count. Many commercial brands use very little or no sugar, a key difference that separates mustard from higher-calorie condiments like ketchup or barbecue sauce.

Water: A calorie-free base that provides the correct consistency.
Distilled Vinegar: A calorie-free liquid that adds the signature tangy flavor.
Mustard Seed: The crushed seed provides the flavor, bulk, and minimal nutritional content.
Salt: Used for seasoning and preservation, but adds no calories.
Turmeric and Paprika: Spices for color and flavor that also add no calories.

Comparing Different Types of Mustard

While classic yellow mustard is very low in calories, other varieties may contain higher amounts due to additional ingredients like sweeteners or oils. For example, honey mustard is known to have significantly more calories and sugar because honey is a major ingredient. Dijon mustard and spicy brown mustard typically remain low in calories, though some variations may add wine or higher-calorie bases. It's always best to check the nutritional information on the packaging for specific products.

Nutritional Comparison: Mustard vs. Other Condiments

Let's compare the caloric content of a standard yellow mustard packet to other popular single-serving condiments. This table illustrates just how minimal the caloric impact of mustard is compared to its counterparts.


Condiment	Calories Per Packet	Primary Calorie Source	Sugar Content	Sodium Content
Yellow Mustard	~3 kcal	Mustard Seed	Very Low	Moderate to High (varies)
Ketchup	~10-15 kcal	Added Sugars	High	Moderate to High
Mayonnaise	~30-50 kcal	Added Oils (Fats)	Low	Moderate
BBQ Sauce	~20-30 kcal	Added Sugars	High	High

This comparison highlights mustard's advantage as a weight-management friendly condiment. The high sugar content in many ketchup and barbecue sauce packets is a primary driver of their increased caloric density. Mayonnaise, conversely, is higher in fat, which is more calorie-dense than carbohydrates.

The Role of Sodium

While calories are low, a standard mustard packet is not without its considerations. The sodium content, typically ranging from 55mg to 70mg per packet, can add up quickly. For individuals on a low-sodium diet, or for those who use several packets at a time, this is a noteworthy detail to monitor. Despite this, mustard generally remains a healthier choice than many other condiments laden with added sugars or fats.

Conclusion

For those wondering how many calories are in one mustard packet, the answer is a refreshingly low 3 to 5 calories. This makes it a smart choice for adding flavor to meals without derailing dietary goals. While its low-calorie, low-fat, and low-sugar profile is a definite win, it's worth being mindful of the sodium content. Choosing mustard over other common condiments like ketchup or mayonnaise can make a small but meaningful difference in your overall nutritional intake. For more detailed nutrition information, including other varieties, consult the USDA FoodData Central database.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, while consumed in small amounts, mustard seeds contain small amounts of beneficial minerals like selenium and magnesium. As a condiment, it is a low-calorie alternative that adds flavor without high levels of sugar or fat.

Yes, honey mustard is significantly higher in calories because it contains honey, which is a sugar-based ingredient. Always check the label for exact nutritional information, as it will differ greatly from standard yellow mustard.

Mustard can be a helpful tool for weight management by providing flavor with minimal calories, which is a better option than higher-calorie condiments. However, it is not a weight loss cure on its own.

The sodium content varies by brand but typically ranges from 55mg to 70mg per packet. It is important to check the specific product label if you are watching your sodium intake.

Yes, calorie counts differ based on the type of mustard. Classic yellow mustard is the lowest in calories, while honey mustard is higher. Deli and Dijon mustards are generally low-calorie but may have slightly different profiles.

The primary caloric contribution in a mustard packet comes from the mustard seed itself, which contains trace amounts of fat, carbohydrates, and protein. Other ingredients are mostly calorie-free.

Mustard is considered healthy because it is very low in fat, sugar, and total calories compared to many other common condiments. It provides flavor from natural ingredients like vinegar and spices.