Pickles are a popular snack around the world. While the term “pickle” is not unique to the snack many people think of, it is colloquially recognized as being the same as a pickled cucumber.
This is important, because many different foods can actually be pickled, including eggs, onions, ginger, tomatoes, and so much more.
As we understand it, however, pickle is commonly used to refer to good old pickled cucumbers and gherkins.
With “pickles” being as popular as they are, it might have gotten you thinking – how many calories are actually in a pickle? Are they healthy, or are they something to limit in your everyday life?
We will explore everything you need to know on the topic right here.
What Exactly Is A Pickle?
Like we said – the term “pickle” is usually used to describe a particular kind of pickled food – cucumbers. However, this term really just refers to any kind of food that has gone through the pickling process.
The primary ingredient used for pickling foods is vinegar, but recipes can vary greatly. Many recipes call for ingredients such as rice wine, red wine, apple cider, and different seasoning options, too.
These will all play a role in how many calories are in a batch of pickles.
Cucumbers are the most popular kind of pickled food on the market, and are the ones that we are all familiar with. These can be crunchy or softer, but also sweet, salty, or sour, depending on what you put in with them.
The most popular kind of cucumber used for pickling are Persian or Kirby cucumbers – they are the perfect size and shape.
However, many other cucumber varieties can be used, including English cucumbers, Picklebush, Hokus, Lemon, Honey Plus, and a plethora of other options.
What Are Pickles Used For?
Pickles, or pickled cucumbers, in this case, can be used for a variety of things in the kitchen. One of the most popular ways to enjoy these pickles is simply as-is! Get the jar open (if you can) and pinch one out to snack on.
Besides that, there are nearly countless ways that you could use your pickles. From gliding them up and using them on burgers, sandwiches, or pizzas, or throwing them on bakes, in salads, and turning them into a relish.
The opportunities are limitless, so just get out there and try new things.
How Many Calories Are In A Pickle?
According to the USDA, there are just 11 calories in 100 grams of pickles! This is pretty impressive, right?
Well, this might not always be the case, so be careful with low numbers like these. There is a good chance that every pickle (or every 100 grams of pickles) are not going to have this exact calorie number.
For example, 100g of pickles from Crosse Blackwell Branston Small Chunk Pickle is calculated to contain around 111 calories – that’s 100 more than the aforementioned calorie count!
As such, there is not going to be a one answer fits all in his scenario.
Does The Brine Impact The Calorie Count?
There are a number of factors that could come into play when calculating how many calories are in a pickle. One important one is the brining solution the pickle is placed in.
Pickle brine usually consists of water, white vinegar, salt and sugar. The sugar content will pack on the calories, but the exact numbers will vary from one brand to another.
The healthiest pickles you could probably get your hands on will be homemade ones, where you can control what goes into the brine.
What About Kool Aid Pickles?
According to myfitnesspal, Kool Aid pickles are around 15 calories per serving (0.25 of a cup, rather than measured in grams). Other recipes (such as this tasty one) state that their cherry Kool Aid pickles are worth roughly 65 calories per 100g.
The flavor of Kool Aid is likely to make a difference, too. The popular flavor for Kool Aid pickles is cherry, but there are a variety of flavors you may enjoy.
Are Pickles Good For Weight Loss?
Regular pickles with minimal amounts of sugar in the brine are excellent options for weight loss, as they are known to be low in calories. Even pickles that have been brined with sugary brines are unlikely to be the worst thing you could eat.
If you are on a weight loss journey, however, we would suggest trying to stick to the pickles with less sugar.
Some will argue for eating pickles while you are trying to lose weight, and others will strongly argue against it. In the end, it is up to you to determine which side you are going to take, and which one you want to try – you can always change your mind later.
Enjoy your dill pickles, but like with anything, enjoy them in moderation. Too much of any good thing isn’t good for you!
Final Thoughts
Pickles contain around 11 calories per 100g – which is an impressive number in the food world! It is important to remember that pickles as we know are simply pickled cucumbers. Cucumbers are naturally low in calories and a great health food.
However, it is worth pointing out that the calories in pickles may vary depending on brand and the ingredients used. Kool Aid pickles are going to contain more calories than regular dill pickles, and there may be brands that are worse than others.
As such, there is no way to give a solid answer. The best you can do is go with the average 11 calories per 100g, and work from there.
If you are purchasing pickles from the store, make sure to check the information on the back. This should always tell you how many calories are in the jar and in every serving.
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