Grains & pasta

Amaranth grain, uncooked

FDC 170682cup (193 g)

Source: USDA FoodData Central · Public domain

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

Density 72 · +8 vs Grains & pasta median

Amaranth is a tiny pseudo-grain that punches above its size on our index, scoring 72 of 100 and landing 10th of 60 in grains and pasta. Per 100 grams it delivers 59% of the Daily Value for magnesium and 42% for iron, alongside 27% for protein and 24% for fiber, an unusually broad mineral profile for something you cook like a grain.

Uncooked it reads as calorie-dense at 371 per 100 grams, but you rarely eat it dry: simmered with plenty of water it swells into a soft porridge, and a little of the raw grain goes a long way. It has a nutty, slightly peppery flavor that suits breakfast bowls or a side in place of rice, and because it is naturally gluten-free it makes a useful swap for anyone avoiding wheat.

Source: USDA FoodData Central · Public domain

Fig. 1 · Macronutrient composition
Protein 13.6 g · 14%Carb 65.2 g · 69%Fat 7 g · 17%

Percent of calories derived by NutriVerdict from USDA grams

Nutrition facts

NutrientAmount% DV
Calories371 kcal19%
Total fat7 g9%
Saturated fat1.5 g7%
Cholesterol0 mg0%
Sodium4 mg0%
Carbohydrate65 g24%
Dietary fiber6.7 g24%
Sugars1.7 g
Protein14 g27%
Potassium508 mg11%
Calcium159 mg12%
Iron7.6 mg42%
Magnesium248 mg59%
Vitamin C4.2 mg5%
Vitamin A0 µg0%
Vitamin E1.2 mg8%

Source: USDA FoodData Central · Public domain

FDC 170682

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

What it is rich in

Nutrients supplying at least 10% of the Daily Value per 100 grams. 20% or more is an excellent source.

Magnesium59% DV
Iron42% DV
Protein27% DV
Dietary fiber24% DV
Calcium12% DV
Potassium11% DV

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

Versus the grains & pasta median

Nutrient density72 vs 64 median
Protein / 100 g14 vs 11 median
Fiber / 100 g6.7 vs 6.7 median
Sodium / 100 g4 vs 5 median

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

More nutrient-dense swaps

Foods in the same category that score higher on nutrient density.

Amaranth grain, cookedDensity 73 vs 72Vital wheat glutenDensity 76 vs 72Wheat germ, crudeDensity 78 vs 72

View the USDA source record