Microwavable mac and cheese cups are a quick and easy meal solution, especially for busy people and families on the go. But what are you really eating when you grab one of these convenient cups?
This article provides a detailed look at the calorie content and nutritional information for a typical mac and cheese cup. We’ll cover the macronutrients (carbs, protein, and fat) and some of the micronutrients you’ll find inside.
Nutritional breakdown of a mac and cheese cup
Mac and cheese cups are quick and easy, but what do you get nutritionally? Here’s a look at the standard nutrition facts.
Calorie content
One cup of microwavable mac and cheese contains about 234 calories. If you’re trying to stick to a 2,000-calorie-per-day diet, that cup represents about 12% of your daily calories.
Macronutrient composition
Here’s the breakdown of carbs, protein, and fat in a one-cup serving:
- Carbs: 43.3g total carbs, 41.3g net carbs, 2g fiber
- Protein: 8.6g protein
- Fat: 3g fat
Carbohydrates are your body’s main source of energy. Protein helps you build and repair tissues. Fat also provides energy and helps your body absorb certain vitamins.
Carbohydrates in mac and cheese
A typical mac and cheese cup has about 43.3 grams of total carbohydrates, but not all carbs are created equal. Some people focus on “net carbs,” which is the total carbohydrate amount minus fiber. This cup has about 41.3 grams of net carbs and 2 grams of fiber.
The glycemic load, or GL, of mac and cheese is 19.27. The glycemic load gives you an idea of how much a serving of food will raise your blood sugar.
(Nutritional information on sugar content in mac and cheese cups was not available at the time of writing.)
Micronutrient Profile
A mac and cheese cup contains some vitamins and minerals, but not in great quantities. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Calcium: About 191 mg
- Iron: Around 2.1 mg
- Sodium: A hefty 571 mg
- Folate: 126 mcg
- Vitamin A: Roughly 11 mcg
- Vitamin B1 (Thiamin): 0.6 mg
These micronutrients are important for overall health. For example, calcium helps keep your bones strong, and iron helps your blood carry oxygen. Still, you shouldn’t rely on mac and cheese for your daily vitamin and mineral needs.
Key Takeaways
Mac and cheese cups are quick and easy, but they’re not exactly a nutritional powerhouse. Keep in mind the calories, carbs, fat, and protein in a serving.
Enjoy mac and cheese cups in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Being mindful of the nutritional information can help you make informed food choices.