Calorie Chart / Meat & Eggs / Mortadella
How Many Calories Are in Mortadella?
Calculation of the nutritional value & Recommended Dietary Intake of mortadella
For g and a calorie requirement of kcal
Calories 81 kcal | Proteins 3.5 g | Lipids 7.3 g | Carbohydrates 0.4 g |
4% | 5% | 11% | 0% |
Health benefits of mortadella

Mortadella - 100g
Calories 323 kcal
Proteins 14 g
Lipids 29 g
Carbohydrates 1.5 g
Made exclusively with finely ground pork, gentle spices, and often pistachios, mortadella is renowned for its smooth texture and pronounced aroma. Because it is prepared with a notable proportion of pork fat, it is classed as a high-calorie food: the concentration of calories provides quick energy but calls for portion control.
This delicacy supplies complete proteins and is a noteworthy source of B-group vitamins such as B1, B6, and B12, which support nerve function and red-blood-cell formation. Its mineral profile includes iron, zinc, and selenium, all indispensable for immunity and antioxidant defense. The pistachios traditionally embedded in the sausage contribute a touch of heart-friendly monounsaturated fat and magnesium. The presence of rosemary extract, often used as a natural preservative, adds further antioxidant potential, although this benefit is still considered "supposed" by some researchers.
Culinary historians trace mortadella back to ancient Rome, where a forerunner called "farcimen myrtatum" was flavored with myrtle berries. Today, Bologna's Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) specifies slow oven-cooking at about 90 °C, a method that locks in flavor but also maintains the high calories characteristic of the product. Remember: flavorful does not necessarily mean empty nutrition, yet the density of calories makes mindful servings essential.
Tips for incorporating mortadella into a balanced diet
Because mortadella delivers many calories in a small volume, balance is the key. Replace white bread with a slice of wholemeal bread and layer thin mortadella ribbons with crisp arugula and ripe tomato. The vegetables add fiber and water, helping you feel full without piling on extra calories, while the whole grains provide sustained energy.
For a warm option, dice mortadella into a bowl of al dente pasta, then bulk up the dish with steamed broccoli. A drizzle of olive oil, lemon zest, and fresh parsley keeps flavor high while controlling additional calories. Limit the sausage to 30 g per person so the recipe remains family-friendly in calories.
An Italian-style snack board can stay reasonable in calories by pairing modest mortadella cubes with semi-soft mozzarella, raw vegetables, and a handful of olives. Resist the temptation to add fried snacks, which would double the calories quickly. Instead, round off the meal with a piece of fresh fruit to finish on a sweet note without excess calories.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How many calories are in mortadella?
- There are 323 kcal per 100 g.
- Is mortadella higher in calories than cooked ham?
- Yes. Cooked ham contains roughly half the calories of mortadella, so switching to ham reduces total calories if you need a lighter sandwich.
- How can I cut calories when making a mortadella panini?
- Use just one thin slice, add plenty of salad vegetables, choose whole-grain bread, and skip butter or mayo; these adjustments can reduce the final calories by 30–40 %.
- Does frying mortadella change its calorie count?
- Brief pan-searing does not remove fat; if oil or butter is added, the calories rise. Dry-toast in a non-stick pan to avoid extra calories.
- What portion size keeps calories under control?
- A 30 g serving (about one large slice) provides roughly 100 kcal, a practical cap for people monitoring daily calories.
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Information provided by Calorie Menu may contain inaccuracies or errors. It cannot, under any circumstances, substitute medical advice or medication.