The Basic Nutritional Profile of In-N-Out Fries
In-N-Out Burger is famous for its simple menu and fresh ingredients, including potatoes cut and fried on-site. An order of their standard french fries is a significant source of carbohydrates, which are the body's primary energy source.
According to the official In-N-Out nutrition information, a single serving of their regular french fries (which weighs approximately 125 grams) contains specific macronutrient values.
Nutritional Breakdown of Regular In-N-Out Fries
For a standard order of In-N-Out fries, the nutritional values are as follows:
- Total Carbohydrates: 49g
- Dietary Fiber: 6g
- Net Carbohydrates: 43g
- Protein: 6g
- Total Fat: 15g
- Calories: 360
These fries are cooked using 100% sunflower oil and contain zero sugars. The majority of the carbohydrates come from the potato starch.
Comparing Regular vs. Animal Style Fries
One of In-N-Out's most popular "secret menu" items is Animal Style fries, which are topped with cheese, spread (a Thousand Island-style dressing), and grilled onions. This addition significantly changes the nutritional profile.
In-N-Out Fries Nutritional Comparison Table
| Nutrient | Regular Fries (approx. 125g) | Animal Style Fries (estimated per serving) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 360 | ~750 |
| Total Carbs | 49g | ~54g |
| Net Carbs | 43g | ~52g |
| Total Fat | 15g | ~54g |
| Protein | 6g | ~15g |
| Sodium | 150mg | ~553mg (or higher) |
The Animal Style preparation adds a substantial amount of calories and fat, primarily due to the spread and melted cheese. While the total carbohydrates only increase slightly compared to regular fries (from 49g to around 54g), the overall caloric impact is more than double.
How In-N-Out Fries Fit Into Popular Diets
Understanding how many carbs are in an order of In-N-Out fries is essential for managing dietary goals.
Low-Carbohydrate and Keto Diets
For individuals following a strict ketogenic diet, where daily carb intake is typically limited to 20-50 grams, a full order of In-N-Out fries (49g carbs) would likely exceed the daily allowance in a single sitting. Even Animal Style fries, despite the added fats, contain too many carbs to be considered keto-friendly. People on these diets often opt for "Protein Style" burgers and skip the fries entirely or eat only a few.
High-Carbohydrate or Bulking Diets
For athletes or individuals on a bulking diet, the carbohydrate content can be a useful source of energy. The potatoes provide complex carbohydrates, while the cooking oil adds necessary fats.
Tips for Reducing Carb Intake at In-N-Out
If you want to enjoy the In-N-Out experience while keeping carb count low, consider these strategies:
- Share an Order: Splitting a single order of fries with one or two others significantly reduces your individual carb intake.
- Choose a "Protein Style" Burger: Swapping the bun for lettuce on your burger can save over 30 grams of carbohydrates, allowing room for a small portion of fries if desired.
- Limit Condiments: The In-N-Out spread contains some carbs and fats. Opting for mustard and ketchup can slightly alter the nutritional balance.
- Plan Ahead: Factor the 49g of carbs from the fries into your daily macro budget before visiting the restaurant.
Conclusion
An order of In-N-Out fries contains approximately 49 grams of carbohydrates. This makes them a carb-dense food that may not be suitable for strict low-carb diets. However, when consumed in moderation or shared as part of a balanced meal, they can be an enjoyable treat. Always refer to the official nutritional information for the most accurate details.
