1 serving (100 grams) contains 164 calories, 7.6 grams of protein, 6.8 grams of fat, and 18.2 grams of carbohydrates.
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Nutrition Information
Calories |
377.2 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 15.6 g | 20% | |
| Saturated Fat | 6.2 g | 31% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.5 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 43.7 mg | 14% | |
| Sodium | 404.8 mg | 17% | |
| Total Carbohydrates | 41.9 g | 15% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.8 g | 6% | |
| Sugars | 6.5 g | ||
| protein | 17.5 g | 35% | |
| Vitamin D | 36.8 mcg | 183% | |
| Calcium | 117.3 mg | 9% | |
| Iron | 2.0 mg | 11% | |
| Potassium | 172.5 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 Tuna mac and cheese
Tuna Mac and Cheese is a comforting dish combining pasta, cheese, and canned tuna, originating from American home cooking traditions. It blends creamy cheese sauce with the protein-rich addition of tuna, offering a hearty meal. Nutritionally, it provides a good balance of carbs, fats, and proteins. Tuna is an excellent source of lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids, while cheese contributes calcium and vitamin B12. The dish is calorie-dense due to its rich ingredients, making it ideal for energy needs, but portions should be moderated for calorie-conscious eaters.
Health Benefits
- High in protein (approximately 20-25g per serving) due to tuna, supporting muscle growth and repair.
- Rich in omega-3 fatty acids from tuna, which promote heart health and reduce inflammation.
- Contains calcium and phosphorus from cheese, essential for strong bones and teeth.
Dietary Considerations
Selection and Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat thoroughly before consuming.
Common Questions About Tuna mac and cheese Nutrition
Is Tuna Mac And Cheese high in protein?
Tuna Mac And Cheese is a good source of protein, depending on the recipe. A typical serving can provide approximately 20-25 grams of protein, primarily from the canned tuna and cheese. Adding extra tuna or cheese can increase the protein content further.
Can I eat Tuna Mac And Cheese on a keto diet?
Tuna Mac And Cheese is generally not keto-friendly due to the pasta, which is high in carbohydrates. A single serving can contain upwards of 30-40 grams of carbs, making it incompatible with keto. To make it keto-friendly, you could substitute traditional pasta with low-carb alternatives like zucchini noodles or cauliflower.
Are there any health concerns with eating Tuna Mac And Cheese?
While Tuna Mac And Cheese can be a balanced meal when prepared responsibly, certain health concerns exist. Regular canned tuna may contain trace amounts of mercury, so moderation is recommended, especially for pregnant individuals. Additionally, the dish may be high in sodium and saturated fats depending on the type of cheese and seasoning used.
What is a recommended serving size for Tuna Mac And Cheese?
A recommended serving size for Tuna Mac And Cheese is approximately 1 cup or about 250 grams. This portion typically provides around 300-400 calories, depending on the recipe. Adjust portion sizes based on dietary needs or additional ingredients like vegetables or protein.
How does Tuna Mac And Cheese compare to other pasta dishes?
Tuna Mac And Cheese typically offers more protein than standard mac and cheese due to the addition of tuna. However, it may also have higher sodium and fat content. In comparison to vegetarian pasta dishes, Tuna Mac And Cheese provides animal-based protein, which can be beneficial for non-vegetarian diets but unsuitable for vegans.
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 - Tuna mac and cheese DataU.S. Department of AgricultureOfficial nutrition data for this specific food item from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's comprehensive food database.
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.
