1 serving (35 grams) contains 5 calories, 0.2 grams of protein, 0.0 grams of fat, and 1.0 grams of carbohydrates.
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Nutrition Information
Calories |
34.0 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 0 g | 0% | |
| Saturated Fat | 0 g | 0% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 1904.8 mg | 82% | |
| Total Carbohydrates | 6.8 g | 2% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.0 g | 7% | |
| Sugars | 2.7 g | ||
| protein | 1.4 g | 2% | |
| Vitamin D | 0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 34.0 mg | 2% | |
| Iron | 0.7 mg | 3% | |
| Potassium | 170.1 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.
Food Attributes
Source of Calories
About Pickle spear
A pickle spear is a cucumber that has been preserved in a brine solution of vinegar, water, salt, and often spices. Pickling is an ancient preservation method believed to have originated over 4,000 years ago in Mesopotamia. Pickles are a common accompaniment in many cuisines, including American, Middle Eastern, and European. Nutritionally, a pickle spear is low in calories (approximately 4–8 kcal) and fat and provides small amounts of vitamins such as Vitamin K. However, it is relatively high in sodium due to the brining process, which can account for up to 15% of the daily recommended sodium intake per spear depending on the recipe. Pickles also contain trace amounts of potassium and antioxidants derived from the cucumbers and spices used in preparation.
Health Benefits
- Pickle spears are a good source of Vitamin K, essential for blood clotting and bone health, providing around 12–15% of the recommended daily intake per spear.
- They contain probiotics if naturally fermented, which promote gut health and support a balanced microbiome.
- Pickles made from cucumbers contribute small amounts of antioxidants, such as beta-carotene, which help reduce oxidative stress.
Dietary Considerations
Selection and Storage
Store pickle spears in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For best quality and crunch, consume within 1–2 months of opening.
Common Questions About Pickle spear Nutrition
Is a pickle spear high in protein?
Pickle spears are not a significant source of protein. On average, one spear contains less than 1 gram of protein, meaning they are primarily consumed as a low-calorie snack or condiment rather than a protein source.
Can I eat pickle spears on a keto diet?
Yes, pickle spears are keto-friendly as they are low in carbohydrates, typically containing about 1-2 grams of net carbs per spear. However, check the label for added sugars, as some pickles may contain sweeteners that increase their carb content.
Are pickle spears healthy?
Pickle spears can be a healthy snack in moderation. They are low in calories (about 5-7 calories per spear) and contain small amounts of vitamins like vitamin K. However, they can be high in sodium, with one spear containing around 300-500 mg of sodium, which may be a concern for those monitoring their salt intake.
How many pickle spears should I eat in one serving?
A serving of pickle spears is typically 1-2 spears, providing around 10-15 calories and 600-1,000 mg of sodium. Because of their high sodium content, it's best to enjoy them sparingly as a snack or side dish.
How do pickle spears compare to fresh cucumbers?
Pickle spears are cucumbers that have been brined, which adds sodium and changes their flavor profile. While both are low in calories and carbs, fresh cucumbers contain more water and fewer electrolytes like sodium, making them a better option for hydration and low-sodium diets.
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.
- Pickles as a source of probioticsNational Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI)Explores fermented pickles as potential sources of probiotics and their impact on gut health.
- Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2020-2025U.S. Department of Health and Human ServicesProvides guidelines on sodium intake, a key consideration with pickle consumption, and overall dietary patterns.
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.
