The Calorie Breakdown of Popular Birds Eye Steamfresh Flavors
Birds Eye SteamFresh offers a variety of fish fillets, with each flavor pouch containing a different sauce that influences the total calorie count. For those tracking their intake, knowing the specific nutritional information is essential. Here is a breakdown of the calories and macronutrients for some popular varieties, typically based on a single 190g fillet serving.
Birds Eye SteamFresh Citrus & Parsley
This is one of the brand's most recognizable options. According to nutrition data, a single 190g fillet contains approximately 170 to 174 calories. Its macronutrient profile includes about 31g of protein, 4.9g of total fat, and minimal carbohydrates. The simple, light sauce contributes flavor without a significant calorie increase.
Birds Eye SteamFresh Soy & Ginger
The Soy & Ginger variety is a slightly lower-calorie option. A 190g fillet typically has around 152 calories. This version contains less fat than the Citrus & Parsley flavor, with about 2.7g of total fat and 31.5g of protein, making it an excellent choice for a lean, high-protein meal.
Birds Eye SteamFresh Thai Red Curry
For a more robust flavor, the Thai Red Curry option offers a slightly higher calorie count due to its creamier sauce. This fillet provides approximately 173 calories per 190g serving. It contains 32.5g of protein and a total fat content of 4.9g, similar to the citrus variety.
What Influences the Calorie Count?
Several factors can affect the final calorie count of a Steamfresh meal, even within the same brand. Understanding these variables helps in making more informed dietary choices.
- Sauce and Flavoring: The primary difference in calorie content between Steamfresh varieties comes from the sauce. Creamier or oil-based sauces will naturally contain more calories and fat than lighter, citrus-based alternatives.
- Fish Type: While the Birds Eye brand often uses mild, white fish, the specific type can also influence the macros. A fattier fish like salmon would contain more calories than a leaner one like cod or pollock.
- Serving Size: The caloric values mentioned are based on a single fillet. Combining multiple fillets or adding extra sauces would increase the total intake.
- Added Ingredients: Many consumers add vegetables or a side of rice to bulk up their meal. These additions must be factored into the final calorie count.
Steamed vs. Fried: A Calorie Comparison
When considering cooking methods, steaming is a clear winner for calorie control. Frying, especially deep-frying, adds a significant amount of oil and often a high-calorie breading or batter. A comparison reveals a stark difference in nutritional value.
| Preparation Method | Calories (per 100g, approx) | Fat Content (g, approx) | Health Implication |
|---|---|---|---|
| Birds Eye Steamfresh | 80-95 | 1.5-2.5 | Generally healthy, low-fat with added flavor. |
| Generic Steamed Fish | 139 | Minimal | Very healthy, clean protein source. |
| Deep-Fried Fish | >240 | >11 | Very high in fat and calories, less healthy. |
| Breaded Frozen Fish | >350 | 17-25 | High in fat and processed ingredients, less healthy option. |
As the table shows, a 100g serving of deep-fried fish can have nearly twice the calories and over 40 times the total fat of a comparable steamed fish fillet. Frozen, breaded fish is also significantly more calorie-dense than a Steamfresh fillet. Choosing the steaming method is a simple way to dramatically reduce calorie and fat intake while still enjoying a delicious and convenient meal.
Making it a Complete Meal: Adding Sides
To create a balanced and satisfying meal with your Steamfresh fish, consider adding healthy sides. Steamed vegetables like broccoli, carrots, and green beans pair perfectly and add minimal calories while boosting fiber and nutrient intake. For example, adding a cup of steamed broccoli and half a cup of brown rice will only increase the meal's total calories slightly, while significantly improving its satiety and nutritional profile.
Toppings and Extras: While the Steamfresh pouches contain their own sauce, you can also enhance the flavor with low-calorie additions. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice, a sprinkle of fresh herbs, or a dash of hot sauce can elevate the meal without piling on extra calories.
Conclusion
For those seeking a convenient and health-conscious meal option, Birds Eye Steamfresh fish offers a low-calorie solution. With most flavors ranging from 150 to 175 calories per fillet, they provide a significant amount of lean protein with a low-fat profile. The final calorie count, however, depends on the specific flavor's sauce and any additional sides you choose to include. By opting for steaming over frying, you can enjoy a nutritious and flavorful fish meal that aligns with your dietary goals. To explore more healthy options for preparing fish, you can read articles on health-focused sites like Verywell Fit.