Detailed Nutrition Breakdown for a Wendy's Dave's Single
Beyond the headline calorie number, a complete nutritional profile is essential for making informed dietary choices. A single Dave's Single offers a significant percentage of a person's daily recommended intake for several key nutrients, as detailed by recent nutrition data.
Macronutrient Profile
Here's a closer look at the macronutrient breakdown based on the 580-calorie baseline for a standard Dave's Single:
- Total Fat: 36 grams, which accounts for 46% of the daily value.
- Saturated Fat: 14 grams, making up 70% of the daily value.
- Carbohydrates: 35 grams, contributing 13% of the daily value.
- Protein: 29 grams.
- Sugar: 7 grams.
Other Notable Nutritional Information
- Sodium: The sandwich contains 1080mg of sodium, a substantial 47% of the daily recommended value.
- Cholesterol: At 80mg, it accounts for 27% of the daily value.
- Fiber: There are 2 grams of dietary fiber.
Customizing Your Dave's Single to Affect Calories
The standard Dave's Single comes with a square beef patty, American cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, ketchup, and mayo. Altering these ingredients can significantly change the overall calorie and fat content. For example:
- Removing the cheese: The American cheese slice adds approximately 50-60 calories. Removing it can bring the total down slightly.
- Removing the bun: While this changes the nature of the meal, removing the bun can save you over 100 calories and a significant portion of the carbohydrates.
- Hold the mayo: Mayonnaise is calorie-dense. Taking it off the burger is an easy way to trim about 90 calories and a considerable amount of fat.
- Adding extras: On the other hand, adding bacon or extra cheese will increase both the calorie and sodium counts.
Comparison Table: Dave's Single vs. Other Wendy's Burgers
To put the Dave's Single's caloric content into perspective, here's a comparison with its larger siblings and another popular menu item.
| Item | Calories | Total Fat (g) | Protein (g) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dave's Single | 580 | 36 | 29 |
| Dave's Double | 850 | 57 | 49 |
| Dave's Triple | 1,150 | 81 | 70 |
| Baconator® | 930 | 63 | 55 |
| Son of Baconator® | 610 | 41 | 35 |
Side Dishes and Combo Meals
It's important to remember that a burger is often part of a larger meal. Adding a side of fries and a sugary drink can dramatically increase your total calorie intake.
Common Wendy's Combo Additions
- Medium French Fries: Approximately 420 calories.
- Classic Frosty® (Medium): Around 470 calories, adding significant sugar.
- Coca-Cola (Medium): About 250 calories from sugar alone.
Choosing healthier alternatives like Apple Slices (35 calories) or a water can keep your meal under a more manageable calorie count.
Making Smarter Choices for Your Diet
For those monitoring their calorie intake, enjoying a Wendy's Dave's Single can still be part of a balanced diet. The key is moderation and being aware of the full nutritional impact. Consider having the burger as a standalone meal rather than a combo, or making simple modifications like holding the cheese or mayo. Being mindful of your side and beverage choices is also crucial. Knowledge is power when it comes to fast food and your health goals.
Conclusion
In summary, a standard Wendy's Dave's Single contains 580 calories, with a notable amount of fat, protein, and sodium. While a substantial meal on its own, its overall impact on your daily calorie budget depends heavily on customizations and accompanying items. By understanding the nutritional facts and making small, informed adjustments, you can still enjoy your fast-food favorites responsibly. For the most up-to-date information, always refer to the official Wendy's nutrition guide, which can be found on their website.
