Catsup
FDC 168556tbsp (17 g)
Source: USDA FoodData Central · Public domain
Original analysis by NutriVerdict
Density 4 · -89 vs Vegetables medianFiled under Vegetables because of its tomato base, catsup scores just 4 of 100 on the Nutrient Density Score, a Low band placement that lands it 58th of 60 in that category, far below the vegetable median, though it does carry a modest vitamin E showing at 10% DV.
As a condiment, it's spooned or squeezed onto fries, burgers, and eggs rather than eaten in vegetable-sized portions, with a single tablespoon (17 g) being the typical serving. That small serving still concentrates sodium and sugar, running high in sodium at 907 mg per 100 g and high in sugars at 21.3 g per 100 g, so a low-sodium catsup is the straightforward swap for those watching either number closely.
See how this score is calculated, build a plate around catsup, or compare it with another food.
Source: USDA FoodData Central · Public domain
Percent of calories derived by NutriVerdict from USDA grams
Nutrition facts
| Nutrient | Amount | % DV |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 101 kcal | 5% |
| Total fat | 0.1 g | 0% |
| Saturated fat | 0.01 g | 0% |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% |
| Sodium | 907 mg | 39% |
| Carbohydrate | 27 g | 10% |
| Dietary fiber | 0.3 g | 1% |
| Sugars | 21 g | |
| Protein | 1 g | 2% |
| Potassium | 281 mg | 6% |
| Calcium | 15 mg | 1% |
| Iron | 0.35 mg | 2% |
| Magnesium | 13 mg | 3% |
| Vitamin C | 4.1 mg | 5% |
| Vitamin A | 26 µg | 3% |
| Vitamin E | 1.5 mg | 10% |
| Nutrient | Amount | % DV |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 17 kcal | 1% |
| Total fat | 0.02 g | 0% |
| Saturated fat | 0 g | 0% |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% |
| Sodium | 154 mg | 7% |
| Carbohydrate | 4.7 g | 2% |
| Dietary fiber | 0.05 g | 0% |
| Sugars | 3.6 g | |
| Protein | 0.18 g | 0% |
| Potassium | 48 mg | 1% |
| Calcium | 2.6 mg | 0% |
| Iron | 0.06 mg | 0% |
| Magnesium | 2.2 mg | 1% |
| Vitamin C | 0.7 mg | 1% |
| Vitamin A | 4.4 µg | 0% |
| Vitamin E | 0.25 mg | 2% |
Source: USDA FoodData Central · Public domain
FDC 168556Original 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.
Original analysis by NutriVerdict
Versus the vegetables median
Original analysis by NutriVerdict
More nutrient-dense swaps
Foods in the same category that score higher on nutrient density.
Catsup, low sodiumDensity 22 vs 4Potato pancakesDensity 47 vs 4Spinach souffleDensity 49 vs 4Original analysis by NutriVerdict
In the kitchen and how to use it
Catsup, the classic tomato ketchup, is a cooked and strained tomato condiment sweetened and seasoned with vinegar, sugar and spices until it reaches a thick, pourable consistency. It's used as a table condiment for fries, burgers, hot dogs and eggs, and as a cooking ingredient in meatloaf glazes, barbecue sauce bases, cocktail sauce and braises, where its acidity and sweetness balance rich or fatty meats. Its smooth texture and tangy-sweet flavor make it one of the most common condiments in home kitchens, and it's also a frequent starting point for homemade barbecue and steak sauces once mixed with vinegar, spices or a splash of hot sauce.
A tablespoon serving is 17 grams, and per 100 grams catsup has 101 calories with 21.3 grams of sugar and 27.4 grams of carbohydrate, reflecting the added sugar used to balance the tomatoes' natural acidity. It also carries 907 mg of sodium per 100 grams, so it adds up quickly if used generously on a plate. Once opened, keep it refrigerated, where it will keep for months due to its vinegar and sugar content; it's best treated as a flavoring condiment used in tablespoon amounts rather than a base for a dish, and it also contributes 10% DV vitamin E per 100 grams.
Frequently asked questions about catsup
How many calories are in catsup?
Catsup has 101 calories per 100 grams, or about 17 calories in a tablespoon.
Does catsup need to be refrigerated?
Yes, once opened it should be kept in the refrigerator, where its vinegar and sugar content help it keep for months.
How much sugar is in catsup?
Catsup contains 21.3 grams of sugar per 100 grams, reflecting the sugar added to balance the tomatoes' natural acidity.