Baby Carrots — Nutrients, Health Benefits, and Shopping Tips
Written by Listonic Team
Last update on September 4, 2024
Nutrients
Nutrition facts
Amount per 100 g
Calories
🔥 35 kcal
| Nutrients per: 100 g | Value | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Carbs | 8 g | 2.91% |
| Fiber | 3 g | 10.71% |
| Sugars | 5 g | 10% |
| Glycemic Index | 35 | - |
| Protein | 1 g | 2% |
| Sodium | 69 mg | 3% |
| Total Fat | 0 | - |
*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.
35
🍏 Low-Calorie Foods
35
🟢 Low Glycemic Index
Key takeaways
Health benefits
- Rich in beta-carotene, which is converted into Vitamin A, essential for eye health and vision.
- Supports digestive health with their high fiber content, promoting regular bowel movements.
- Low in calories, making them a healthy snack option for weight management.
- Contains essential vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin K, Vitamin C, and potassium, which are important for overall health and well-being.
Health risks
- Choking hazard especially for young children, as the small, firm shape of baby carrots can pose a choking risk if not properly chewed.
- Nutrient loss compared to whole carrots, as the peeling process can remove some nutrients and fiber.
- Possible contamination with harmful bacteria such as Listeria or E. coli if not properly washed or stored.
- High sugar content relative to other vegetables, which may contribute to an increased risk of dental issues if not balanced with proper oral hygiene.
How to choose baby carrots
Baby carrots should be bright orange, firm, and smooth. They're best when they have a crisp texture and a sweet, clean taste.
Avoid those that are limp or have turned a pale color, as these are signs that the carrots have lost their freshness. White blush on baby carrots, while not harmful, can indicate they are drying out.
How to store baby carrots
Baby carrots should be stored in the refrigerator, ideally in the crisper drawer. Keeping them in a perforated plastic bag can help maintain their crispness and freshness for up to two weeks. They can also be kept in an airtight container with a damp paper towel.
Moisture is key to preventing baby carrots from drying out. Avoid storing them in open containers, as this can cause them to lose moisture and become limp. Keeping baby carrots away from strong odors is also important, as they can absorb unwanted flavors.
✅ Extra Tip
How long do they last?
Baby carrots can last for 3-4 weeks in the refrigerator when stored in their original packaging or a plastic bag. To maintain their freshness, keep them away from moisture and store them in the crisper drawer. Once opened, consume them within 1-2 weeks.
What to do with leftovers?
Leftover baby carrots can be enjoyed in many ways. Roast them with olive oil, salt, and pepper for a simple and flavorful side dish. They are also great when glazed with honey or maple syrup, adding a sweet touch to any meal.
Chop baby carrots and add them to stir-fries, soups, or stews for a pop of color and nutrition. You can also blend them into a carrot puree or soup, which is perfect for a healthy snack or side. If you have an abundance, try making pickled baby carrots for a tangy treat. Baby carrots can also be sliced and added to salads or used as a crunchy snack with hummus or other dips.
👨⚕️️ Medical disclaimer
How baby carrots support specific health conditions
Baby carrots are an excellent source of beta-carotene, supporting eye health by reducing the risk of macular degeneration. Their fiber content promotes digestive health by aiding in regular bowel movements, while their low calorie and high nutrient content make them ideal for weight management. Additionally, the antioxidants in carrots help improve skin health by reducing oxidative stress.
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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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