Understanding the Nutritional Information
Pinpointing the precise number of carbs in the proprietary In N Out spread can be a challenge. The company does not release the nutrition facts for the spread as a standalone item, instead bundling its nutritional information with full menu items. For example, the official nutrition guide provides totals for a burger 'with spread' versus one 'with mustard & ketchup instead of spread,' making it possible to deduce the spread's approximate contribution. Several external resources and food databases have attempted to calculate or estimate the carb content based on common copycat recipes or menu item comparisons, providing a general range to consider.
Where Do the Carbs in the Spread Come From?
The carbs present in the In N Out spread are not a total mystery. The sauce, which is essentially a Thousand Island-style dressing, relies on several key ingredients that contribute to its carbohydrate profile.
- Ketchup: A primary component of the spread, ketchup contains added sugars and corn syrup, which directly contribute to the total carb count.
- Sweet Pickle Relish: This ingredient, made from pickled cucumbers, is also sweetened, providing another source of sugar and, consequently, carbohydrates.
- Sugar and Vinegar: Many copycat recipes include small amounts of added sugar and white vinegar to balance the flavors, further contributing to the carbohydrate content.
It's important to remember that these are often small amounts on a per-serving basis. However, for those on strict low-carb diets like keto, even a small number of carbs can impact daily totals.
Implications for Low-Carb and Keto Diets
For individuals following a ketogenic or low-carb diet, the In N Out spread presents a small but significant source of carbohydrates that needs consideration. While a single serving of the spread won't single-handedly break a diet, consuming multiple servings or ordering "Animal Style," which adds extra spread, can push one over their daily carb limit. The general consensus among the low-carb community is that for those with room in their daily carb budget, a standard amount of spread is acceptable, but extra servings should be avoided. For stricter approaches, it's recommended to skip the spread entirely.
Instead of the spread, keto-conscious diners can opt for mustard, which is virtually carb-free, or request extra lettuce, tomato, or pickles for flavor without the added sugars.
Carb Count Comparison: In N Out Spread vs. Other Sauces
When evaluating the carb impact of the In N Out spread, it can be helpful to compare it to other common fast-food condiments. This table provides a rough comparison based on typical serving sizes.
| Condiment | Estimated Carbs per Serving | Main Carb Source | Suitability for Strict Keto |
|---|---|---|---|
| In N Out Spread | ~4-6g | Ketchup, Relish, Sugar | Moderate |
| Ketchup | ~4g | Sugar, Corn Syrup | Low |
| Mayonnaise (Plain) | <1g | None (unless flavored) | High |
| Mustard | <1g | None | High |
| BBQ Sauce | ~10-15g | High Fructose Corn Syrup | Low |
| Sweet and Sour | ~11-15g | Sugar, Preservatives | Low |
Note: Carb counts for the spread are estimates based on copycat recipes and menu comparison calculations. Other sauces reflect general brand averages.
How to Reduce Carbs at In N Out
For those who want to enjoy In N Out while keeping carb counts low, there are several strategies beyond just omitting the spread. Making mindful choices can make a significant difference.
- Order "Protein Style": This swaps the traditional bun for a lettuce wrap, eliminating a major source of carbohydrates and making the burger suitable for low-carb dieters.
- Modify Condiments: Requesting mustard and ketchup instead of the spread significantly reduces the sugar and carb intake. Mustard has virtually no carbs, while the small amount of ketchup used is manageable for many.
- Control Add-ons: While grilled onions are delicious, they are cooked in oil and can add a small amount of extra carbs. For a stricter keto approach, stick with raw onions.
- Skip the Fries: This is the most obvious way to avoid a large carb load. The fries are a significant source of carbohydrates, and skipping them is a must for most low-carb plans.
Conclusion: The Final Verdict on In N Out Spread Carbs
In conclusion, the In N Out spread does contain carbohydrates, primarily from its ketchup and sweet pickle relish ingredients. While the exact amount is not officially published, approximations based on menu analysis and copycat recipes place it in the range of 4-6 grams per serving. For casual diners, this is a negligible amount. However, for those committed to a strict low-carb or keto diet, the spread represents a small but notable carb source that should be factored into daily intake. Alternatives like skipping the spread, opting for mustard, or ordering "Protein Style" are excellent ways to enjoy the iconic In N Out burger experience while managing carbohydrate consumption. For more detail on creating your own version of the sauce, you can consult copycat recipes from reputable sources, such as this one from Serious Eats.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is the carb count of the In N Out spread estimated?
The carb count is typically estimated by comparing the nutritional information of a standard burger with spread to a burger ordered with mustard and ketchup instead. Copycat recipes also provide insight into the sugar-containing ingredients.
Is the In N Out spread keto friendly?
The spread contains a measurable amount of carbs from sugar and relish, making it not strictly keto-friendly. However, a small serving might fit within the daily carb limit for some individuals on a less strict low-carb diet.
What can I use instead of In N Out spread for a keto burger?
For a keto option, you can request mustard, which has no carbs, or a small side of mayonnaise if you prefer a creamy flavor. Asking for extra raw onions and pickles is another way to add flavor without carbs.
Do grilled onions at In N Out add carbs?
Grilled onions can add a small amount of extra carbs due to the caramelization process and the oil they are cooked in. While the amount is minimal, strict keto followers may prefer raw onions.
Can I get an Animal Style burger on a low-carb diet?
An Animal Style burger includes extra spread and grilled onions, increasing the overall carb content. A common low-carb hack is to order it "Protein Style" (lettuce wrapped) and ask for light or no spread to manage the carb intake.
Does the In N Out spread contain high-fructose corn syrup?
According to a 2025 news report, In-N-Out replaced high-fructose corn syrup with natural sugar in their spread and other items. However, the spread still contains sugar, which contributes to the carb count.
Does In-N-Out offer low-carb alternatives?
Yes, the most popular low-carb alternative is the "Protein Style" burger, which uses a lettuce wrap instead of a bun. You can also customize your condiments to omit the spread.
How does the carb content of the spread compare to ketchup?
While both contain sugar, the In N Out spread is a mix of ingredients that often results in a higher total carb count per serving than a similar quantity of plain ketchup, especially when you factor in the added sugar and relish.
