Nachos

Nachos

Appetizer

Item Rating: 63/100

1 serving (250 grams) contains 662 calories, 19.2 grams of protein, 39.2 grams of fat, and 59.5 grams of carbohydrates.

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357.8
calories
10.4
protein
32.1
carbohydrates
21.2
fat

Nutrition Information

1 cup (135g)
Calories
357.8
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 21.2 g 27%
Saturated Fat 4.7 g 23%
Polyunsaturated Fat 7.5 g
Cholesterol 22.9 mg 7%
Sodium 654.8 mg 28%
Total Carbohydrates 32.1 g 11%
Dietary Fiber 2.3 g 8%
Sugars 0.5 g
protein 10.4 g 20%
Vitamin D 5.4 mcg 27%
Calcium 101.2 mg 7%
Iron 1.6 mg 8%
Potassium 151.2 mg 3%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

  • USDA FoodData - Nachos Data
    U.S. Department of Agriculture
    Official nutrition data for this specific food item from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's comprehensive food database.
  • Food Attributes

    🍯 Low sugar

    Source of Calories

    35.6%
    11.5%
    52.9%
    Fat: 190 cal (52.9%)
    Protein: 41 cal (11.5%)
    Carbs: 128 cal (35.6%)

    About Nachos

    Nachos are a popular Mexican-inspired dish that originated in the 1940s, traditionally consisting of tortilla chips topped with melted cheese and various other ingredients such as beans, meat, and vegetables. Nachos are a calorie-dense food, typically containing a significant amount of fats and carbohydrates, as well as moderate protein. A standard serving of nachos provides approximately 265 calories, 7.69g protein, 23.8g carbohydrates, and 15.7g fat. While not inherently nutrient-rich, the addition of toppings like fresh vegetables and beans can enhance their nutritional value by contributing fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

    Health Benefits

    • Provides energy due to its carbohydrate content (23.8g per serving), essential for bodily functions and physical activity.
    • Contains calcium (75mg per serving), which supports bone health and nerve function.
    • Provides iron (1.15mg per serving), a mineral essential for oxygen transport and preventing anemia.

    Dietary Considerations

    Allergens: Contains dairy (cheese), corn (tortilla chips), gluten (if chips or toppings contain wheat)
    Suitable for: Vegetarian (if made without meat), gluten-free (if certified gf chips used)
    Not suitable for: Vegan (due to cheese unless plant-based alternatives are used), low-fat diets (due to high fat content)

    Selection and Storage

    Store leftover nachos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to restore crispness, as microwaving may cause them to become soggy.

    Common Questions About Nachos Nutrition

    Are nachos high in protein?

    Nachos contain a moderate amount of protein, with 7.69 grams per 100-gram serving. While they do provide some protein, they are not considered a high-protein food compared to options like lean meats or legumes.

    Can I eat nachos on a keto diet?

    Traditional nachos made with tortilla chips are not suitable for a keto diet due to their high carbohydrate content (23.8 grams per 100 grams). However, you can make keto-friendly nachos using low-carb chips or alternatives like cheese crisps.

    Are nachos healthy to eat regularly?

    Nachos can be calorie-dense, with 265 calories and 15.7 grams of fat per 100-gram serving, and they are relatively high in sodium (485 mg). They should be enjoyed in moderation, as excessive consumption may contribute to weight gain and increased sodium intake.

    What is the recommended serving size for nachos?

    A standard serving size of nachos is typically around 30-40 grams, which provides approximately 80-110 calories. This portion size can help manage calorie intake, especially if served alongside a balanced meal with vegetables and protein.

    How do nachos compare to other snack foods?

    Nachos are higher in fat (15.7 grams) and sodium (485 mg) compared to some other snacks like plain popcorn but tend to have more protein (7.69 grams) than potato chips. Adding toppings like beans, salsa, or guacamole can enhance their nutritional value.

    Data Sources & Scientific References

    Our nutrition data comes from trusted, authoritative sources to ensure accuracy and reliability. Below are specific scientific references and authoritative sources for this food item.

    1. USDA FoodData - Nachos Data
      U.S. Department of Agriculture
      Official nutrition data for this specific food item from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's comprehensive food database.
    2. Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2020-2025
      U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
      Provides guidance on balanced diets, such as moderating saturated fat and sodium intake, which are relevant for nacho preparation.
    3. The Impact of Processed Foods on Dietary Quality
      American Journal of Clinical Nutrition
      Examines the nutritional implications of processed foods like nacho components, contributing to dietary excesses in fat and sodium.

    Additional Authoritative Sources:

    Daily value percentages based on FDA guidelines. Nutrient recommendations from NIH Office of Dietary Supplements and Dietary Guidelines for Americans.

    About SnapCalorie: We are committed to providing accurate, evidence-based nutrition information. Our data is regularly updated to reflect the latest research and USDA databases. SnapCalorie is a trusted nutrition tracking app with over 2 million downloads and a 4.8/5 star rating.