How many calories are typically in a clementine?

December 13, 2025 •

3 min read

According to the USDA, a single raw clementine contains approximately 35 calories, making it a very light and healthy snack option. The vast majority of calories are derived from its natural sugars, with minimal protein and virtually no fat. This small, sweet citrus fruit is also a fantastic source of vitamin C and fiber.

Quick Summary

A typical clementine contains around 35 calories, primarily from natural carbohydrates. The fruit is also rich in vitamin C, essential for immune function and skin health, and provides a good source of fiber, antioxidants, and key minerals like potassium. It's an excellent, low-calorie snack choice.

Key Points

Low Calorie: A single clementine contains about 35 calories, making it a very light snack option.
Nutrient-Dense: Despite being low in calories, it is rich in vitamin C, fiber, and various antioxidants.
Easy Snack: Clementines are convenient, easy to peel, and typically seedless, perfect for on-the-go consumption.
Health Benefits: The fruit supports immune health, promotes good skin, and aids in digestive wellness.
Dietary Considerations: While healthy, individuals on certain medications like statins should consult a doctor due to potential interactions with compounds found in citrus.

Nutritional Breakdown of a Clementine

Clementines are often prized for their sweet taste, easy-to-peel skin, and seedless nature, making them a popular and convenient snack. Beyond their appeal, they offer a host of nutritional benefits packed into a small, low-calorie package. A standard clementine weighing around 74 grams contains approximately 35 calories. The caloric content is primarily made up of natural sugars, which provide a quick burst of energy without the high fat content found in many processed snacks.

The nutritional profile of a single clementine includes:

Calories: ~35 kcal
Carbohydrates: ~9 grams
Dietary Fiber: ~1 gram
Sugars: ~7 grams
Protein: ~1 gram
Fat: ~0 grams

This makes clementines an excellent choice for those monitoring their calorie intake. The fiber content, though not high, contributes to digestive health and helps promote feelings of fullness. Their water content is also very high, contributing to hydration.

Comparing Clementines to Other Citrus Fruits

While clementines are a great choice, it can be helpful to compare their nutritional values with other popular citrus fruits to see how they stack up. Here is a comparison per 100g serving, as different fruits come in varying sizes.


Nutrient (per 100g)	Clementine	Mandarin	Tangerine	Orange
Calories	35 kcal	53 kcal	47 kcal	47 kcal
Carbohydrates	8.9 g	13.3 g	12.0 g	11.8 g
Sugars	8-9.2 g	10.6 g	9-10.5 g	9.4 g
Dietary Fiber	1.0 g	1.8 g	2.0 g	2.4 g
Vitamin C (%DV)	40%	27%	26%	59%

This table highlights that while all are healthy, clementines are among the lowest in calories and carbs on a per-gram basis, making them a very diet-friendly option. Oranges typically have higher levels of vitamin C and fiber, but the portion size of a clementine is often smaller and easier to consume as a quick snack.

The Health Benefits of Eating Clementines

Beyond just their low-calorie count, clementines offer several other health benefits.

Antioxidant Power: Clementines are rich in antioxidants, including vitamin C and beta carotene. These compounds help fight inflammation and protect the body from damage caused by unstable molecules called free radicals. This cellular protection can play a role in preventing various chronic diseases.
Skin Health: Vitamin C is crucial for skin health, as it aids in the synthesis of collagen, the protein that gives skin its structure and firmness. Regular intake can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles and protect the skin from UV damage.
Immune System Support: The high vitamin C content is a major immune booster, helping the body fight off infections and reducing the duration of common illnesses.
Digestive Health: The fiber in clementines supports healthy digestion by feeding beneficial gut bacteria and promoting regular bowel movements.
Mineral Source: Clementines provide key minerals like potassium, which is important for maintaining healthy blood pressure and fluid balance.

How to Incorporate Clementines into Your Diet

Clementines are versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways:

As a simple snack: Their portability and easy-to-peel nature make them a perfect grab-and-go snack.
In salads: Their sweet flavor pairs well with bitter greens, nuts, and cheeses in a winter salad.
In yogurt or oatmeal: Adding segmented clementines to your morning bowl provides natural sweetness and a nutritional boost.
In sauces and marinades: Clementine juice and zest can be used to create flavorful sauces for chicken or fish.
In smoothies: Blending clementines into a smoothie is an easy way to add a sweet, citrusy flavor.

For more great recipes and information on how to incorporate healthy ingredients into your diet, check out sources like EatingWell.

Are there any downsides?

For most people, clementines are a safe and healthy food. However, it's worth noting that, like grapefruit, they contain furanocoumarins, which can interact with certain medications, particularly cholesterol-lowering statins. If you are taking medication, it is always wise to consult with your doctor or pharmacist about potential interactions with citrus fruits. Additionally, the sugar content, while natural, should be considered as part of your overall daily intake, especially for those with blood sugar management concerns.

Conclusion

Clementines are a low-calorie, vitamin-rich fruit that make an excellent addition to a healthy diet. A single clementine contains approximately 35 calories and offers substantial amounts of vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants. These nutritional properties support everything from immune function and skin health to overall digestive wellness. Their natural sweetness and convenience make them a delicious and smart choice for a snack or meal accompaniment. By being mindful of their natural sugar content and potential drug interactions, most people can safely enjoy this winter citrus favorite.

Frequently Asked Questions

A clementine from a popular brand like Cuties contains approximately 40 calories. The exact calorie count can vary slightly depending on the size of the specific fruit.

Yes, clementines are a good source of fiber. A single fruit contains about 1 gram of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and can help you feel full longer.

Clementines and tangerines have very similar calorie counts, but clementines tend to be slightly lower. For example, a clementine has about 35 calories, while a tangerine has around 47 calories per 100g, though the exact numbers vary by size.

The primary source of calories in a clementine is natural sugar, which provides most of its energy. The fruit contains minimal amounts of protein and virtually no fat.

Yes, clementines are highly suitable for a weight loss diet. Their low-calorie count, combined with their fiber and high water content, makes them a satisfying and healthy snack option.

Yes, in addition to being an excellent source of vitamin C, clementines also contain other essential vitamins and minerals, including folate, thiamine, and potassium.

While clementines are healthy, eating them in excess can lead to a high intake of natural sugars. It's best to consume them as part of a balanced diet and to be mindful of your overall sugar intake.