Whelk

Whelk

Seafood

Item Rating: 74/100

1 serving (85 grams) contains 126 calories, 23.8 grams of protein, 1.2 grams of fat, and 4.5 grams of carbohydrates.

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350
calories
66.1
protein
12.5
carbohydrates
3.3
fat

Nutrition Information

1 cup (236.1g)
Calories
350
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 3.3 g 4%
Saturated Fat 0.8 g 4%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0 g
Cholesterol 194.4 mg 64%
Sodium 500 mg 21%
Total Carbohydrates 12.5 g 4%
Dietary Fiber 0 g 0%
Sugars 0 g
protein 66.1 g 132%
Vitamin D 0 mcg 0%
Calcium 111.1 mg 8%
Iron 7.8 mg 43%
Potassium 722.2 mg 15%

* 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

🥓 Keto friendly
🍯 Low sugar
🧂 Low sodium
🧂 Low salt
🥩 High protein
🍞 Low carbs

Source of Calories

14.5%
76.8%
8.6%
Fat: 29 cal (8.6%)
Protein: 264 cal (76.8%)
Carbs: 50 cal (14.5%)

About Whelk

Whelks are a type of edible sea snail commonly found in coastal waters across the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. They are a staple in European and Asian cuisines, often served steamed, boiled, or in seafood dishes like chowders and stews. Nutritionally, whelks are an excellent source of lean protein and are relatively low in fat and carbohydrates. A 100g serving provides about 148 calories, 28g of protein, and is rich in minerals like iron and calcium. However, they lack significant amounts of vitamin C or fiber. Due to their high protein content and mineral density, whelks make a nutrient-dense addition to seafood-based diets while being both satisfying and low in fat content.

Health Benefits

  • High protein content (28g per 100g) supports muscle repair, growth, and overall body function.
  • Rich in iron (3.3 mg per 100g), which aids in oxygen transport and energy production.
  • Contains calcium (47 mg per 100g), supporting bone health and proper nerve function.

Dietary Considerations

Allergens: Contains shellfish
Suitable for: Low-fat diets, high-protein diets, pescatarian diets
Not suitable for: Vegan diets, vegetarian diets, individuals with shellfish allergies

Selection and Storage

Store live whelks in the refrigerator in a breathable container or covered with a damp cloth, and use within 1-2 days. Cook thoroughly by boiling or steaming to ensure safety.

Common Questions About Whelk Nutrition

Is whelk high in protein?

Yes, whelk is high in protein, providing 28 grams of protein per 100 grams. This makes it an excellent choice for those looking to increase their protein intake, such as athletes or individuals on high-protein diets.

Can I eat whelk on a keto diet?

Yes, whelk is compatible with a keto diet as it contains only 5.3 grams of carbs per 100 grams. Its low carbohydrate content, combined with its high protein and minimal fat, makes it a keto-friendly food.

What are the health benefits of eating whelk?

Whelk is rich in protein and low in fat, making it a great choice for muscle repair and maintenance. It also contains essential minerals like sodium, though its amount—211.8 mg per 100 grams—may need to be monitored by those watching their sodium intake.

How much whelk should I eat per serving?

A standard serving size of whelk is typically around 85 grams (3 ounces), which provides roughly 126 calories, 24 grams of protein, and just over 4.5 grams of carbohydrates. This portion is suitable for most balanced diets.

How does whelk compare to other shellfish like shrimp?

Compared to shrimp, whelk has slightly more calories and protein but also more carbohydrates. For example, shrimp contains about 99 calories, 24 grams of protein, and 0 grams of carbs per 100 grams, making shrimp leaner, but whelk provides a more filling option with additional energy.

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.

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.