Calories in Cloves: Nutrition Facts & Serving Sizes
Per 1 tbsp (7g)
Per 100g
Source: USDA FoodData Central, SR Legacy, March 2026.
One teaspoon of cloves (2g) contains 5.8 calories, making it a negligible-calorie spice. Per 100g, cloves provide 274 calories with 6g of protein, 65.5g of carbs, and 13g of fat. The standout feature is the exceptional fiber content at 33.9g per 100g. Calcium is extraordinary at 632mg per 100g (about 63% daily value), and iron at 11.8mg per 100g covers about 66% of the daily value. Potassium is very high at 1,020mg per 100g. Vitamin E provides 8.8mg per 100g. Vitamin K is 141.8mcg per 100g (over 100% daily value). At typical culinary serving sizes (1-3 tsp), cloves contribute minimal calories but meaningful trace minerals. They are most commonly used in baking, spice blends, and hot beverages.
Nutrition Highlights
Calories by Serving Size
| Serving | Cal | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Fiber |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 tsp (2g) | 5.8 | 0.1g | 1.4g | 0.3g | 0.7g |
| 1 tbsp (7g) | 17.8 | 0.4g | 4.3g | 0.8g | 2.2g |
| 100g | 274 | 6g | 65.5g | 13g | 33.9g |
Full Nutrition Facts (per 100g)
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 274 | 14% |
| Protein | 6g | 12% |
| Total Fat | 13g | 17% |
| Saturated Fat | 4g | 20% |
| Trans Fat | 0.3g | |
| Total Carbohydrates | 65.5g | 24% |
| Dietary Fiber | 33.9g | 121% |
| Sugars | 2.4g | 5% |
| Sodium | 277mg | 12% |
Vitamins & Minerals (per 100g)
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Saturated Fat | 4g | 1% |
| Trans Fat | 0.3g | 0% |
| Calcium | 632mg | 49% |
| Iron | 11.8mg | 66% |
| Potassium | 1020mg | 22% |
| Vitamin A | 8mcg | 1% |
| Vitamin C | 0.2mg | 0% |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.4mg | 24% |
| Magnesium | 259mg | 62% |
| Phosphorus | 104mg | 8% |
| Zinc | 2.3mg | 21% |
| Selenium | 7.2mcg | 13% |
| Folate | 25mcg | 6% |
| Thiamin (B1) | 0.2mg | 17% |
| Riboflavin (B2) | 0.2mg | 15% |
| Niacin (B3) | 1.6mg | 10% |
% Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA reference).
Health Benefits of Cloves
Cloves are one of the most micronutrient-dense spices you can add to food. Despite being used in tiny quantities, the mineral density is impressive. At typical culinary doses (1-2 tsp), cloves contribute meaningful amounts of calcium, iron, and potassium relative to zero calorie impact.
The iron content at 11.8mg per 100g is particularly notable. A tablespoon of cloves provides about 0.77mg of iron, which contributes to your daily intake without adding calories. Iron supports oxygen transport in the blood and is essential for sustained athletic performance.
Potassium at 1,020mg per 100g is exceptional. While you would not eat 100g of cloves, even small amounts add potassium to your diet. Potassium is critical for electrolyte balance, blood pressure regulation, and muscle function.
Vitamin K at 141.8mcg per 100g covers over 100% of the daily value. This supports bone metabolism and proper blood clotting. Vitamin E at 8.8mg per 100g provides antioxidant protection.
Eugenol, the primary active compound in cloves, has documented anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. While you should not eat cloves in large amounts (they can be irritating at high doses), using them liberally in cooking is beneficial for overall health.
Dietary Considerations
Cloves are compatible with all diets including keto, vegan, and gluten-free. They add essentially no macros at culinary serving sizes. The high potassium and calcium content are notable benefits. No significant dietary concerns at normal culinary use. Clove essential oil or extract in very high doses can be harmful, but ground cloves used in cooking are safe for everyone.
Daily Intake (100g)
100g of clove provides 14% of a 2,000-calorie diet.
Track Your Intake
See how clove fits your personal calorie and macro targets.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many calories in cloves?
One teaspoon of cloves (2g) contains about 5.8 calories. A tablespoon (6.5g) has about 17.8 calories. Per 100g, cloves contain 274 calories, but this amount is far more than any culinary recipe would use.
Are cloves good for weight loss?
Cloves are excellent for weight loss cooking because they add intense flavor with essentially zero calories. A teaspoon adds under 6 calories while providing minerals and anti-inflammatory compounds.
How much iron is in cloves?
Cloves are extremely high in iron at 11.8mg per 100g. A tablespoon of cloves provides about 0.77mg of iron. This makes them one of the most iron-rich spices available.
What are cloves used for in cooking?
Cloves are used in spice blends, baked goods (pumpkin pie spice, gingerbread), marinades, rice dishes, mulled wine, and chai tea. They have a warm, pungent flavor that complements both sweet and savory dishes.
How much potassium is in cloves?
Cloves contain 1,020mg of potassium per 100g. A teaspoon (2g) provides about 21mg and a tablespoon (6.5g) provides about 66mg of potassium. These are small but meaningful contributions to daily potassium intake.