Do Seasonings Have Calories

Do Seasonings Have Calories? Here’s What You Need to Know

When you're counting calories, seasoning your food might seem harmless, but have you ever wondered if those flavorful sprinkles and dashes carry a caloric cost? The short answer is yes—seasonings can have calories, but it depends on what you're using.

Many dry herbs and spices, like basil, oregano, or paprika, have negligible calories—usually less than 5 calories per teaspoon. These are great calorie-free ways to enhance the taste of your meals. However, blends like taco seasoning or BBQ rubs can add hidden calories because they often include sugar, salt, or carbohydrate fillers.

Liquid seasonings like soy sauce, hot sauce, or vinegar also tend to be low in calories, but be mindful of the portion size and ingredients. Teriyaki sauce or dressings, for example, can pack more calories than you'd think due to added sugar or oil.

The calories in seasonings might feel insignificant, but if you use them generously or rely on flavoring mixes frequently, they can subtly add up over time. To ensure your meal prep stays on track, it’s always a good idea to check the nutrition label of your seasoning options.

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