Healthy Fat Sources Commonly Stocked
Composition Overview of Salmon, Nuts, Seeds, and Plant-Based Oils
Salmon Fillets
Salmon fillets are widely available fresh or frozen in UK supermarkets. Raw salmon contains approximately 2100 kcal per 100g (due to high fat content) and approximately 20g of protein per 100g. Salmon is notable for containing omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA), which represent one type of polyunsaturated fat.
| Nutrient | Per 100g (raw) | Per 150g fillet |
|---|---|---|
| Energy | 208 kcal | 312 kcal |
| Protein | 20g | 30g |
| Fat | 13g | 20g |
| Omega-3 (EPA+DHA) | 2.3g | 3.5g |
Almonds
Almonds are widely available in UK supermarkets in various packaging sizes. They contain approximately 579 kcal per 100g and approximately 21g of protein per 100g. Almonds are a source of monounsaturated fats and vitamin E, and contain approximately 12.5g of fibre per 100g.
| Nutrient | Per 100g | Per 28g serving (handful) |
|---|---|---|
| Energy | 579 kcal | 162 kcal |
| Protein | 21g | 6g |
| Fat | 50g | 14g |
| Fibre | 12.5g | 3.5g |
Mixed Seeds
Mixed seeds (sunflower, pumpkin, sesame) are shelf-stable and available in various packaging options in UK supermarkets. Seeds typically contain approximately 500-600 kcal per 100g and are sources of polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats, along with fibre, protein, and micronutrients.
| Seed Type | Energy per 100g | Protein per 100g | Fat per 100g |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sunflower | 585 kcal | 9g | 51g |
| Pumpkin | 541 kcal | 19g | 45g |
| Sesame | 563 kcal | 17g | 50g |
Olive Oil
Olive oil is a plant-based oil widely available in UK supermarkets in various qualities and packaging sizes. It contains 884 kcal per 100ml (oil has higher caloric density than water-containing foods due to fat content). Olive oil is predominantly monounsaturated fat.
| Nutrient | Per 100ml | Per 15ml tablespoon |
|---|---|---|
| Energy | 884 kcal | 119 kcal |
| Fat (total) | 100g | 14g |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 73g | 10g |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 11g | 1.5g |
Fat Composition Overview
Fats are a macronutrient consisting of fatty acids and glycerol. Different types of fat exist: saturated fats, monounsaturated fats, polyunsaturated fats, and trans fats, each with different chemical structures and sources.
Saturated fats are found predominantly in animal products and tropical oils. Monounsaturated fats are found in oils like olive oil and in foods like nuts and avocados. Polyunsaturated fats include omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids.
All fats provide 9 kcal per gram, making them energy-dense compared to proteins and carbohydrates, which provide 4 kcal per gram. This contributes to the energy density of fat-containing foods.
Portion sizes and preparation methods significantly affect the total energy content of fat-containing foods. Small portions of high-fat foods contribute substantial energy due to their energy density.
Informational Content: The information presented here is educational and factual about food composition. Individual energy needs, food preferences, and dietary choices vary widely. This content does not provide nutritional recommendations or make claims about outcomes.
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