Is Horseradish Fat Free? Separating the Root from the Sauce

December 11, 2025 •

3 min read

According to the Horseradish Information Council, a tablespoon of prepared horseradish contains zero fat. This makes the fiery root an excellent choice for adding flavor to meals without extra fat, though the final product can vary significantly depending on preparation.

Quick Summary

Pure horseradish root is naturally fat-free, but the fat content of store-bought products depends on the ingredients. Prepared horseradish with vinegar and salt is low-fat, whereas creamy sauces often contain added fats from dairy or mayonnaise.

Key Points

Pure Root: The root of the horseradish plant is naturally fat-free and low in calories.
Prepared Horseradish: This is made with root, vinegar, and salt, resulting in a product that is also essentially fat-free.
Creamy Sauces: Most creamy horseradish sauces contain high-fat ingredients like cream or mayonnaise, significantly increasing their fat content.
Check Labels: To avoid hidden fats, always check the nutritional label, especially on creamy or blended horseradish products.
Flavor with Benefits: Horseradish adds a potent flavor kick while providing antioxidants and other health benefits, making it a great low-fat condiment option.

The Nutritional Profile of Horseradish

Pure horseradish root, a member of the mustard family, is a powerful root vegetable renowned for its pungent kick rather than its caloric or fat content. In its unadulterated form, it contains virtually no fat and is very low in calories. This makes it an ideal flavoring agent for those monitoring their fat intake. However, it's crucial to understand that how it's prepared and bottled can significantly alter its nutritional makeup.

The Stark Difference: Prepared vs. Creamy Sauce

When most people refer to horseradish, they could be talking about one of two common preparations: simple prepared horseradish or a creamy horseradish sauce. Their nutritional content varies dramatically.

Prepared Horseradish: This version typically consists of grated horseradish root, vinegar, and salt. The vinegar is added immediately after grating to stabilize the flavor and prevent it from becoming overly pungent. Since none of these added ingredients contain fat, the end product remains exceptionally low in calories and essentially fat-free, just like the raw root.

Creamy Horseradish Sauce: This condiment is created by blending prepared horseradish with a fatty base like mayonnaise, sour cream, or heavy cream. The result is a much milder, richer, and, critically, higher-fat sauce. The fat content is determined entirely by the base ingredients used. This is why always checking the nutritional label is essential for store-bought creamy sauces.

Health Benefits Beyond Being Fat-Free

Beyond its low-fat nature, horseradish offers several potential health benefits. This spicy root is more than just a flavor enhancer; it's a source of beneficial compounds:

Rich in Antioxidants: Horseradish is naturally rich in antioxidants that protect your body from cell damage caused by free radicals. These plant compounds help reduce the risk of various diseases.
Antibacterial Properties: Research indicates that the compound allyl isothiocyanate, which is released when the root is cut, possesses powerful antibacterial properties. Some studies suggest it can combat harmful bacteria like E. coli and Salmonella.
Respiratory Relief: The sinus-clearing sensation that horseradish provides is no accident. Its high sulfur content can help clear mucus and support respiratory health, making it a centuries-old natural remedy for colds and bronchitis.
Potential Anticancer Effects: Test-tube studies have explored the potential anticancer effects of isothiocyanates found in horseradish. While more research is needed, these studies suggest the compounds may help inhibit the growth of certain cancer cells.

Culinary Uses for a Fat-Free Flavor Boost

For those seeking flavor without the added fat, here are some excellent ways to incorporate pure prepared horseradish into your diet:

Enhance Vinaigrettes: Add a small amount to your favorite vinaigrette for a spicy kick that cuts through the oil, adding complexity without fat.
Boost Marinades: Use it in marinades for beef, pork, or chicken to tenderize and infuse a sharp, distinct flavor.
Create a Low-Fat Cocktail Sauce: Mix prepared horseradish with ketchup and lemon juice for a classic, fat-free cocktail sauce.
Spice Up Sandwiches: Use a thin layer of prepared horseradish as a condiment on sandwiches instead of mayonnaise for a fiery alternative.

Horseradish Nutritional Comparison


Nutrient (per tbsp)	Prepared Horseradish	Creamy Horseradish Sauce
Calories	~6	~29+
Total Fat	0g	~2.9g+
Saturated Fat	0g	~1.8g+
Sodium	~14mg	~44mg+

Note: Nutritional values for creamy sauces vary significantly by brand and ingredients. Link to a detailed Healthline article on horseradish nutrition

Conclusion: The Final Verdict on Horseradish and Fat

To definitively answer the question, "Is horseradish fat free?" the answer is a nuanced yes and no. The horseradish root itself is naturally free of fat, and a simple preparation with vinegar and salt keeps it that way. However, many creamy, ready-made horseradish sauces found in grocery stores use high-fat bases like cream or mayonnaise. For health-conscious consumers, this means selecting products carefully. If your goal is to add a fat-free burst of flavor, reach for plain prepared horseradish. If you're using a creamy sauce, be mindful of the portion size and its impact on your overall fat intake. Ultimately, this versatile ingredient offers a wealth of flavor and potential health benefits, regardless of how you choose to enjoy its famous fiery sting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, prepared horseradish, which is typically just grated root mixed with vinegar and salt, is virtually fat-free and very low in calories.

Creamy horseradish sauce is not fat-free because it is made by adding high-fat ingredients like sour cream, mayonnaise, or heavy cream to the prepared horseradish base.

Yes, in its low-fat forms, horseradish is considered a healthy food. It contains antioxidants, has antibacterial properties, and is rich in nutrients like vitamin C.

The easiest way is to check the ingredient list and the nutrition facts label on the packaging. Ingredients like 'cream,' 'mayonnaise,' or 'sour cream' indicate a higher fat content.

As a low-calorie, low-fat flavor booster, horseradish can support weight loss by helping to reduce overall calorie consumption. It adds strong flavor without the need for fatty additions.

Grated horseradish root is simply the fresh, raw, grated vegetable. Prepared horseradish is the grated root combined with vinegar and salt, which stabilizes its flavor and pungency.

Yes, you can easily create a fat-free sauce by blending prepared horseradish with a low-fat or fat-free base, such as Greek yogurt or cottage cheese, for a creamy but healthier version.