How Many Calories Are in a 5 ml Measure of Cumin?

One 5 ml measure of ground cumin (about 2 g) contains around 7 calories. Spices are used in such small amounts that they make a practically negligible contribution to daily calorie intake. Most of the calories in cumin come from its oil. Cumin seeds contain a small amount of essential oil, which contributes to both their aroma and their small calorie content.

How does cumin compare with other spices? Common spices such as black pepper, cinnamon, and red pepper flakes have a similar calorie range. A 5 ml measure of ground spice usually contains 5–10 calories. Root spices such as turmeric and ginger are also in a similarly low-calorie group; the difference between them is in the strength of their aroma, not their calorie count.

Is there a difference between whole and ground cumin? The calorie difference between whole cumin seeds and ground cumin is negligible. Grinding only increases the surface area and strengthens the aroma; it does not change the energy value. Toasted cumin seeds have a somewhat more intense flavor than untoasted ones. Although some moisture is lost during toasting, this does not measurably affect the calories in a 5 ml measure.

How much do spices contribute to daily calories? Several different spices added to one dish generally contribute no more than 20–30 calories in total. This makes using a wider variety of spices a way to add flavor without significantly increasing calories. Spice blends such as meatball seasoning and garam masala sometimes contain added salt or sugar; those ingredients, rather than the spices themselves, add calories to the blend. Toasting cumin in oil instead of adding it directly to a dish can raise the calorie count because of the oil, not the cumin. No matter how much cumin is used, this increase remains small.

What dishes commonly use cumin? Cumin is commonly used in red meat dishes, meatballs, and some soups. The total calories in these recipes come almost entirely from meat, fat, and grains, not cumin. Cumin is also used in legume dishes such as chickpeas and lentils for its flavor and perceived digestive benefits; its effect on calories in these dishes is likewise negligible.

How should cumin be stored? Ground cumin keeps its aroma for months when stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. Storage time does not affect its calories, although its aroma may gradually fade. Whole cumin seeds stay fresh longer than ground cumin. Grinding the seeds as needed provides a stronger aroma while retaining the same low calorie value.

Can cumin’s effects on digestion be confused with its calories? There is a common belief that cumin aids digestion. If it has this effect, it is separate from its calorie content and relates to its effect on the digestive system. A dish that feels “light” and its actual calorie content are different things. Adding cumin may make a dish feel easier to digest, but it does not reduce the total calories. Using cumin with salt does not change the calorie count either; salt is a mineral that provides no energy and does not add to cumin’s small calorie content.