Ketchup — Nutrients, Health Benefits, And Shopping Tips
Written by Listonic Team
Last update on September 4, 2024
Nutrition facts
Nutrition facts
Amount per 100 g
Calories
🔥 100 kcal
| Nutrition per: 100 g | Value | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Carbs | 25 g | 9.09% |
| Fiber | 1 g | 3.57% |
| Sugars | 23 g | 46% |
| Glycemic Index | 55 | - |
| Protein | 2 g | 4% |
| Sodium | 1100 mg | 47.83% |
| Total Fat | 0 g | - |
*The % of Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
55
🟢 Low Glycemic Index
Did you know?
Health benefits
- Rich in antioxidants such as lycopene from tomatoes, which help protect the body from free radicals and reduce inflammation.
- Low in calories, making it a healthier condiment option for adding flavor to meals.
- Contains vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and potassium, which support overall health and well-being.
- Enhances flavor of foods, making meals more enjoyable and palatable.
Health risks
- High sugar content in many commercial ketchups, which can contribute to weight gain, tooth decay, and increased risk of diabetes when consumed frequently.
- High sodium content which can contribute to hypertension and increased cardiovascular risks when consumed frequently.
- Low nutrient density as ketchup is primarily composed of tomatoes, sugar, and vinegar, offering limited vitamins or minerals.
- Potential for artificial additives such as preservatives, colorings, or flavorings in some commercial ketchups, which may cause adverse reactions in sensitive individuals.
How to choose ketchup
Ketchup should have a deep red color and a thick, smooth texture that holds its shape when squeezed out. The flavor should be a balanced mix of sweet and tangy, with a hint of spices.
Avoid ketchup that is too runny or has an overly sweet or bland taste. Good ketchup will complement a variety of foods, enhancing them without overpowering the dishes.
How to store ketchup
Ketchup should be refrigerated after opening. Keeping it in its original bottle maintains its taste and consistency. Properly stored, ketchup remains a staple condiment for various dishes.
Allowing ketchup to sit in warm environments can lead to fermentation and spoilage. It's best to keep it away from direct heat. Consistent refrigeration ensures it stays tangy and fresh, preventing any bacterial growth.
✅ Extra Tip
How long does it last?
Ketchup can last for 1-2 years unopened when stored in a cool, dark place. Once opened, it should be refrigerated and used within 6 months.
What to do with leftovers?
Leftover ketchup can be used in a variety of creative ways. Mix it into a marinade or sauce for grilled meats, adding a sweet and tangy flavor, or use it as a base for a barbecue sauce with added spices, vinegar, and molasses. Ketchup is also great when mixed into meatloaf or meatball mixtures, where it adds moisture and flavor.
Use ketchup as a dipping sauce for fries, onion rings, or chicken tenders, or spread it on sandwiches and burgers for a classic condiment. If you have a lot of ketchup, consider using it in a sloppy joe filling with ground meat and onions, or mix it into stews or chili for a touch of sweetness. Ketchup can also be used in Asian-inspired dishes like sweet and sour sauce, or as a topping for baked potatoes with cheese and bacon. For a quick snack, try dipping potato chips or pretzels in ketchup for a tangy treat.
👨⚕️️ Medical disclaimer
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Listonic Team
Fact-checked
Our editorial team checked this article to make sure it was accurate at the time of publishing it.
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