Dry Unsweetened Gelatin Powder: Nutritional Information
Dry unsweetened gelatin powder is a versatile ingredient commonly used in both savory and sweet dishes, providing structure and texture to a wide range of recipes, from jellies and puddings to gummy treats and marshmallows. This product is known for its simple, pure composition, consisting primarily of protein derived from animal collagen.
Here’s an overview of the nutritional profile for dry unsweetened gelatin powder:
Nutritional Information (Per 100g)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Energy | 335 kcal |
| Protein | 85.6 g |
| Total Fat | 0.1 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.07 g |
| Carbohydrates | 0.0 g |
| Fiber | 0.0 g |
| Sugar | 0.0 g |
| Calcium | 55 mg |
| Iron | 1.11 mg |
| Magnesium | 22 mg |
| Phosphorus | 39.0 mg |
| Potassium | 16.0 mg |
| Sodium | 196 mg |
| Zinc | 0.14 mg |
| Copper | 2.161 mcg |
| Manganese | 0.105 mg |
| Selenium | 39.5 mcg |
| Vitamin C | 0.0 mg |
| Thiamin (Vitamin B1) | 0.025 mg |
| Riboflavin (Vitamin B2) | 0.23 mg |
| Niacin (Vitamin B3) | 0.085 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.007 mg |
| Folate (Vitamin B9) | 30 mcg |
| Vitamin B12 | 0.0 mcg |
| Vitamin A | 0.0 mcg |
| Vitamin E | 0 mg |
| Vitamin D2 | 0.0 mcg |
Key Features
- High Protein Content: Gelatin powder is packed with protein (85.6g per 100g), making it a valuable addition to your diet, particularly for those looking to boost their protein intake without adding significant fats or carbs.
- Low Fat: It contains a minimal amount of fat (0.1g), with only a trace amount of saturated fat (0.07g).
- No Sugars or Carbs: The powder contains no sugars or carbohydrates, making it an ideal choice for low-carb and ketogenic diets.
- Rich in Minerals: It provides a modest amount of essential minerals, including calcium (55mg), iron (1.11mg), magnesium (22mg), and potassium (16mg), all of which play vital roles in maintaining overall health.
- Minimal Vitamins: While it doesn’t contribute much to daily vitamin needs (with no Vitamin C, Vitamin A, or Vitamin B12), it does contain small amounts of B vitamins, including riboflavin, niacin, and folate.
Allergen Information
Dry unsweetened gelatin powder is generally considered safe for most people. However, as it is derived from animal collagen (usually from beef or pork), it is not suitable for vegetarians, vegans, or individuals avoiding animal products for religious or dietary reasons. It also contains no common allergens like dairy, nuts, or gluten, making it a safe option for individuals with these sensitivities.
Dietary Preferences
- Low-Carb: Ideal for ketogenic and low-carb diets, as it contains no carbohydrates or sugars.
- High-Protein: Perfect for those seeking to increase their protein intake, such as athletes or individuals on high-protein diets.
- Gluten-Free: Since gelatin is naturally gluten-free, it is a safe ingredient for people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
- Non-Vegan: Since gelatin is animal-derived, it does not fit vegan or vegetarian dietary preferences.
Advice for Use
Dry unsweetened gelatin powder is incredibly versatile. You can use it to:
- Thicken Liquids: Ideal for making jelly, gummy candies, and marshmallows.
- Add Texture: Used in puddings, mousse, and some creamy desserts.
- As a Binding Agent: Can help bind ingredients together in recipes like no-bake cheesecakes or some meatballs.
When using gelatin, it is important to properly dissolve it in a small amount of cold water before adding it to hot liquids to prevent clumping. Always follow the specific instructions in the recipe for the best results.
Conclusion
Dry unsweetened gelatin powder is a nutrient-dense, low-fat, and versatile ingredient for a variety of culinary creations. Whether you’re making a savory dish or a sweet treat, this ingredient can provide the structure, texture, and protein needed for an array of recipes, all while maintaining a low carb and fat profile. However, it is essential to remember that gelatin is not suitable for vegetarians or vegans, and its benefits are most prominent when used in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
