Decoding the Protein in a Dave's Single
The question "How much protein is in a Dave's #1?" most commonly refers to the Wendy's Dave's Single cheeseburger. This signature item is built with a quarter-pound patty, cheese, lettuce, tomato, pickles, onion, mayonnaise, and ketchup on a toasted bun. For many customers, it's a staple order, sometimes ordered as part of the '#1 combo'. The search for its protein content highlights the growing awareness of macronutrient tracking, even when indulging in quick-service meals.
Based on several nutrition database sources, the Dave's Single contains approximately 29 grams of protein. This significant protein count primarily comes from the beef patty and the slice of cheese. For someone aiming to meet their daily protein goals, this can contribute substantially toward their target, though it's important to view it within the context of the burger's total nutritional profile.
Nutritional Breakdown of the Dave's Single
While the protein content is a key factor for many, the complete nutritional picture is what truly matters for overall diet. Here is a more detailed look at the nutrients in a typical Dave's Single, based on reported values:
- Calories: 590
- Total Fat: 37g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Total Carbohydrates: 37g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 8g
- Sodium: 1030mg
- Cholesterol: 80mg
This breakdown reveals that while it is a good source of protein, it is also high in total fat, saturated fat, and sodium. The 590 calories, combined with the other macros, provide substantial energy, but one must balance this against other food choices throughout the day.
Dave's Hot Chicken vs. Wendy's Dave's
It is important to note that a separate restaurant chain, Dave's Hot Chicken, also has a '#1 Combo'. The nutritional profile for this combo is very different from Wendy's. While the specific protein content for just the sandwich is not always listed separately, the entire combo meal (which includes a slider or tender, fries, and a drink) was found to have approximately 50g of protein, 275g carbs, and 78g fat, significantly altering the overall nutritional intake. When searching for nutritional data, double-checking the restaurant is essential.
Protein Comparison: Dave's Single vs. Double and Triple
For those seeking more protein, Wendy's offers larger versions of the Dave's burger. A side-by-side comparison highlights the differences in protein, calories, and other key nutrients. This table uses data points from multiple search results.
| Nutritional Aspect | Dave's Single (1/4 lb.) | Dave's Double (1/2 lb.) | Dave's Triple (3/4 lb.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Protein | ~29g | ~49g | ~70g |
| Calories | ~590 | ~860 | ~1160 |
| Total Fat | ~37g | ~57g | ~81g |
| Saturated Fat | ~14g | ~23g | ~34g |
| Sodium | ~1030mg | ~1200mg | ~1570mg |
As the number of beef patties increases, so does the protein, calories, fat, and sodium. The Dave's Double provides a substantial protein boost over the single, while the triple offers an extremely high protein and calorie count in a single meal.
Making Smart Nutritional Choices
An item like a Dave's Single can be part of a healthy diet, but moderation and balance are key. For instance, the National Academy of Medicine recommends that adults get a minimum of 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight per day. A 180-pound person (approx. 82 kg) would need around 65.6 grams of protein daily. With 29 grams, a Dave's Single provides a significant portion of this requirement, but its other high values must be managed by healthier choices for other meals.
- Modify Your Order: To reduce fat and sodium, consider customizations. Ask for no mayonnaise, fewer condiments, or no cheese. Choosing water instead of a sugary soda can also drastically reduce overall calorie and sugar intake.
- Pair Wisely: Instead of pairing the burger with medium fries and a soda (part of the typical combo), opt for a side salad with a lighter dressing and water. This swaps high-calorie, high-fat additions for more nutrient-dense, lower-calorie alternatives.
- Check Nutritional Info: Always check the most up-to-date nutritional information on the restaurant's official website or app, as recipes and data can change over time.
Conclusion
To directly answer how much protein is in a Dave's #1?, the Wendy's Dave's Single cheeseburger contains approximately 29 grams of protein. While this is a respectable amount, it is accompanied by notable levels of fat and sodium. For those seeking a higher protein intake in their fast-food choice, the Dave's Double offers 49 grams, and the Dave's Triple delivers 70 grams. Regardless of the size, incorporating fast food into a balanced diet requires smart choices. By being mindful of ingredients, modifying orders, and balancing the meal with healthier options, one can still enjoy a burger while maintaining a focus on overall nutrition. For more information on daily protein needs, refer to reputable health sources like The Nutrition Source from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health: https://nutritionsource.hsph.harvard.edu/what-should-you-eat/protein/.
