Is a Cheeseburger Low in Potassium? Nutritional Insights

November 22, 2025 •

3 min read

Typically, a standard fast-food cheeseburger contains between 225 and 400 mg of potassium per serving, indicating it is not low in potassium. Understanding this is important, especially for individuals monitoring their potassium intake due to health conditions.

Quick Summary

Cheeseburgers are generally not low in potassium, with levels varying based on ingredients. Beef, cheese, and toppings contribute significantly. Controlling portions and ingredients is essential for those on restricted diets.

Key Points

Not Low in Potassium: Standard cheeseburgers are not low in potassium, with 200-500 mg per serving common.
Key Ingredients: Beef, cheese, and the bun contribute the most potassium; toppings also add to the total.
Serving Size: Double or large cheeseburgers have higher potassium levels than smaller, single-patty options.
Dietary Considerations: Those on low-potassium diets should eat cheeseburgers in moderation and manage portion sizes.
Side Dish Impact: High-potassium sides like french fries can significantly increase a meal's total potassium. Choose lower-potassium sides.
Customization: Adjust your order by reducing cheese, limiting high-potassium toppings like tomatoes, and controlling condiments to lower potassium.

Potassium Content of Cheeseburgers: A Detailed Analysis

To determine if a cheeseburger is low in potassium, a breakdown of its components is necessary. Several ingredients contribute to the meal's overall potassium level, which is typically moderate to high.

Analyzing the Potassium Levels in Common Ingredients

Beef Patty: A single 3.5 oz beef patty can contain around 220-250 mg of potassium. A double cheeseburger will approximately double this amount, not including other components.
Cheese: Processed cheese, common in fast food, adds to the potassium content. Cheese also contributes phosphorus, a mineral that should be monitored on a renal diet.
Bun: The bread bun contributes to the meal's overall potassium and sodium levels, which should be considered, especially for those with health concerns.
Condiments and Toppings: Some condiments and toppings can increase potassium levels, although they typically add small amounts. Tomato slices, while a healthy addition, contain potassium and should be used in moderation for those on a low-potassium diet.

Fast Food Cheeseburger vs. Homemade: A Comparative Look

Potassium levels can significantly vary between fast-food and homemade cheeseburgers. Fast-food versions often have higher sodium, phosphorus, and potassium levels because of processed ingredients and preparation methods. Homemade burgers provide more control over ingredients, including the type of meat and the amount of condiments.

Fast Food Cheeseburger Potassium Levels: A Chain-by-Chain Comparison

Potassium levels in cheeseburgers can vary by fast-food chain. The table below presents an overview based on available nutritional data.


Cheeseburger Type	Description	Approximate Potassium (mg)	Notes
McDonald's Cheeseburger	Single patty, standard toppings	210	Generally lower potassium content among fast-food burgers.
McDonald's Double Cheeseburger	Two beef patties, cheese, standard toppings	350	Higher potassium due to the second patty and cheese.
Burger King Cheeseburger	Single patty, standard toppings	237	Similar potassium level to a single cheeseburger.
Double Patty Cheeseburger (Generic)	Two patties, plain	308-454	Potassium can vary based on size and processing; significantly higher than a single patty.
Large Patty Cheeseburger (Generic)	Single large patty, with toppings	479-489	Larger patty and added vegetables or condiments increase potassium.

Strategies for Managing Potassium Intake from Cheeseburgers

For those on a low-potassium diet, especially people with chronic kidney disease, moderation is crucial. A standard cheeseburger, while not inherently low in potassium, can be included in the diet with careful planning.

Tips for managing potassium:

Opt for Single-Patty Burgers: Choose smaller, single-patty burgers to reduce meat and cheese, which lowers potassium intake.
Control Condiments: Ask for condiments like ketchup and mustard on the side to control the amount consumed. Some toppings, such as tomato slices, add potassium.
Limit Cheese: Processed cheese is a source of potassium and phosphorus. Removing cheese or requesting less can help manage intake.
Choose Low-Potassium Sides: Avoid high-potassium sides like french fries. Consider alternatives such as a side salad with a vinegar and oil dressing or onion rings.
Consider Homemade Options: Preparing cheeseburgers at home allows you to use leaner, unprocessed meat and control all ingredients, including sodium and potassium levels.

Conclusion: Potassium and the Cheeseburger

A cheeseburger is generally not a low-potassium food. The combination of meat, cheese, and toppings places it in a moderate-to-high potassium category. This is especially true for those who need to limit their potassium intake. While not entirely off-limits, it requires careful consideration and portion control for individuals on a low-potassium diet. Consulting with a registered dietitian or using resources like the Kidney Community Kitchen can help create a personalized plan. Choosing smaller portions, managing toppings, and selecting kidney-friendly sides allow for occasional enjoyment without compromising dietary goals.

What is the potassium content of a fast food cheeseburger?

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, a double cheeseburger contains significantly more potassium. The additional beef patty and cheese add a substantial amount of potassium, as confirmed by nutritional data from fast-food chains.

The beef patty is typically the largest source of potassium in a cheeseburger, with a standard patty containing over 200 mg.

Generally, fast-food cheeseburgers are not ideal for those with kidney disease because they tend to be high in potassium. Portion control is essential.

To reduce potassium, choose a single-patty burger, limit or skip the cheese, and manage toppings such as tomatoes and condiments.

Better choices include onion rings, steamed rice, or a side salad with a kidney-friendly dressing, as french fries are high in potassium.

Yes, processed cheese does increase the cheeseburger's total potassium content. Limiting or avoiding processed cheese is often recommended for those on restricted diets.

Yes, a homemade cheeseburger is better for managing potassium levels because you can select leaner meats and control all ingredients and portion sizes.