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Nutritional Density
Food guide

Grits

Coarsely ground maize simmered to a porridge, a staple of the American South.

Plant-Based
Grits, a nutrient-dense plant-based food, photographed on a plain linen surface

Nutrition per 100 g

Standardised to 100 g of grits, cooked for fair comparison. Typical serving: 150 g cooked — 90 kcal per 150 g serving.

Nutrition information for Grits
NutrientPer 100 gPer serving (150 g)Per 100 kcal
Energy60 kcal90 kcal100 kcal
Protein1.3 g2 g2.2 g
Carbohydrate13.3 g20 g22.2 g
Fat0.2 g0.3 g0.3 g
Fibre0.7 g1 g1.1 g

Figures are typical values and vary with variety, preparation and brand.

Micronutrients

Vitamins and minerals per 100 g of grits, with a typical serving and FDA Daily Value for adults.

Micronutrients for Grits
NutrientPer 100 gPer serving (150 g)% DV
Vitamins
Vitamin A0 µg0 µg0%
Vitamin C0 mg0 mg0%
Vitamin D0 µg0 µg0%
Vitamin E0.03 mg0.045 mg<1%
Vitamin K0 µg0 µg0%
Thiamin0.086 mg0.13 mg7%
Riboflavin0.058 mg0.087 mg4%
Niacin0.8 mg1.2 mg5%
Vitamin B60.046 mg0.069 mg3%
Folate38 µg57 µg10%
Vitamin B120 µg0 µg0%
Pantothenic acid0.046 mg0.069 mg<1%
Choline2.6 mg3.9 mg<1%
Minerals
Calcium1 mg1.5 mg<1%
Iron0.57 mg0.85 mg3%
Magnesium7 mg10.5 mg2%
Phosphorus20 mg30 mg2%
Potassium27 mg40.5 mg<1%
Sodium2 mg3 mg<1%
Zinc0.18 mg0.27 mg2%
Selenium3.1 µg4.7 µg6%
Copper0 mg0 mg0%
Manganese0.037 mg0.056 mg2%

Source: USDA FoodData Central — Cereals, corn grits, white, regular and quick, enriched, cooked with water, without salt

% DV uses FDA Daily Values for adults. Nutrients that USDA does not report for this entry are omitted. Values vary with variety, preparation and brand.

Why eat grits?

  • Gluten-free and very inexpensive.
  • Enriched varieties supply added B vitamins and iron.

How to include it

  • Cook in milk or stock, then top with egg and greens.
  • Stir through beans for a fuller meal.

Things to consider

  • Low protein and fibre on their own.
  • Cheese and butter versions change the profile substantially.

Educational content. This article is for general information and is not medical advice. Speak to a qualified health professional about your individual circumstances.

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