1 serving (130 grams) contains 308 calories, 2.5 grams of protein, 20.2 grams of fat, and 31.7 grams of carbohydrates.
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Nutrition Information
Calories |
308.1 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 20.1 g | 25% | |
| Saturated Fat | 3.0 g | 15% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 7.6 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 547.3 mg | 23% | |
| Total Carbohydrates | 31.7 g | 11% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.0 g | 10% | |
| Sugars | 0.4 g | ||
| protein | 2.5 g | 5% | |
| Vitamin D | 0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 16.9 mg | 1% | |
| Iron | 0.6 mg | 3% | |
| Potassium | 315.9 mg | 6% | |
* 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 Tater tots
Tater tots are small, cylindrical bites made from grated or finely minced potatoes, often seasoned and fried to achieve a crispy texture. Originating from the United States in the 1950s, they were created as a way to minimize food waste by repurposing potato scraps. A typical serving of tater tots (around 85 grams) contains approximately 160 calories, 8 grams of fat, 20 grams of carbohydrates, and 2 grams of protein. They are a convenient, quick food but are often high in sodium and fat if fried. Prepared versions may also contain additives or preservatives, depending on the brand.
Health Benefits
- Provides potassium, which supports muscle function and maintains healthy blood pressure.
- Contains small amounts of vitamin C, which assists in boosting the immune system and collagen formation.
- Rich in carbohydrates, serving as a quick source of energy for physical activity.
Dietary Considerations
Selection and Storage
Store frozen tater tots in their original packaging in the freezer. Once cooked, refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container and consume within 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven for crispiness.
Common Questions About Tater tots Nutrition
Are tater tots high in calories?
Tater tots are moderately high in calories, with around 160–170 calories per standard 3-ounce serving (about 10-12 tots) depending on the brand or preparation method. The calories primarily come from carbohydrates and fats, as they are typically fried and made from potatoes.
Are tater tots compatible with a keto diet?
Tater tots are not keto-friendly as they are high in carbohydrates. A 3-ounce serving contains about 20–22 grams of carbs, which could quickly exceed the daily carb limit for most keto dieters. Cauliflower tots or low-carb alternatives may be better options for those on a keto diet.
Are there any health concerns with eating tater tots?
The main health concern with tater tots is their often high fat and sodium content due to frying and added seasonings. A single serving can contain 7–8 grams of fat and up to 400 mg of sodium, which can add up quickly if eaten in large portions. Consuming them occasionally as part of a balanced diet is recommended.
What is the recommended serving size for tater tots?
The recommended serving size for tater tots is typically around 3 ounces, or about 10–12 tots. This portion provides a manageable amount of calories (160–170) and nutrients while still leaving room for a balanced meal with protein and vegetables.
How do tater tots compare to French fries nutritionally?
Tater tots and French fries are similar in calories and macronutrients when prepared in the same way, but tater tots often have slightly more sodium because of their added seasoning. Additionally, their compact shape can make portion control harder, potentially leading to overeating if you're not careful.
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.
- USDA FoodData - Tater tots DataU.S. Department of AgricultureOfficial nutrition data for this specific food item from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's comprehensive food database.
- Potatoes and Potato Products: Nutritional Value and Health BenefitsAdvances in Nutrition (Journal of Nutrition Science)Examines the nutritional profile and health benefits of various processed potato products, relevant to understanding tater tots.
- Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2020-2025U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the U.S. Department of AgricultureHighlights recommendations for maintaining a healthy diet, including reducing consumption of sodium and processed foods like tater tots.
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.
