FoodScore
0/ 100
PoorotherLIDL· 3 OLIVES

LIDL JUMBO KALAMATA OLIVES, PITTED & SEASONED

LIDL JUMBO KALAMATA OLIVES, PITTED & SEASONED received a FoodScore of 35/100 (Poor), primarily due to its high sodium content. This product is a processed food.

  • FoodScore is 35/100 (Poor), indicating a low nutritional density.
  • Contains 1857.14mg of sodium per 100g, a significant amount.
  • Provides 16% DV for iron per 100g, a minor nutritional bonus.
  • This product is a NOVA class 3 processed food, similar to generic seasoned olives.
  • Consider portion control due to the high sodium content.
  • Scores -7 points above the other category average (42/100 across 979 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
0g
0% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
1857.14mg
81% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Micronutrients (Iron)+2
What holds it back
Saturated fat (3.6g)-1
Sodium (1857.1mg)-11
Processed (NOVA 3)-5

Why it scores 35

LIDL JUMBO KALAMATA OLIVES, PITTED & SEASONED earned a FoodScore of 35 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. The primary factor driving this score is its exceptionally high sodium content, which stands at 1857.14mg per 100g. This significantly exceeds daily recommended limits and incurs a substantial penalty of -11 points. While the product contains 28.57g of total fat per 100g, the saturated fat component is 3.57g, which contributes a minor penalty of -1 point. On the positive side, the product receives a small bonus of +2 points for its iron content, providing 2.86mg (16% DV) per 100g. However, it lacks other significant micronutrients, with 0% DV for potassium, calcium, magnesium, zinc, and various vitamins. The inclusion of ingredients like canola oil and acetic acid, along with the processing steps, classifies this product as NOVA class 3 (processed), resulting in a -5 point penalty. Compared to a generic unbranded version of seasoned olives, this LIDL product's nutritional profile, particularly its sodium level, is a key consideration.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in lidl jumbo kalamata olives, pitted & seasoned actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Source of Iron

This product provides 2.86mg of iron per 100g, contributing 16% of the Daily Value. Iron is an essential mineral crucial for oxygen transport in the blood and various metabolic processes. While not a primary source, the iron content in LIDL JUMBO KALAMATA OLIVES can contribute to your daily intake, especially for individuals who may need to increase their iron consumption. It's important to consume a varied diet to meet all micronutrient needs.

Healthy Fats from Olives

Kalamata olives naturally contain monounsaturated fats, which are considered heart-healthy fats. These fats, including those from the olive oil used in processing, can help support cardiovascular health when consumed as part of a balanced diet. While this product contains 28.57g of total fat per 100g, the majority of this comes from beneficial unsaturated fats, with only 3.57g being saturated fat. This makes them a source of dietary fat that can fit into a balanced eating pattern.

Flavorful Addition to Meals

LIDL JUMBO KALAMATA OLIVES offer a distinctive savory flavor that can enhance a variety of dishes. Incorporating flavorful ingredients like olives can make meals more enjoyable, potentially reducing the need for excessive salt or other less nutritious flavor enhancers. Their unique taste can be a valuable component in creating satisfying and diverse culinary experiences, encouraging the consumption of more homemade meals.

How to eat it

Kalamata olives are typically enjoyed as a snack, an appetizer, or as an ingredient in Mediterranean-inspired dishes. A common serving size is 3 olives, which is a small portion. Due to their intense flavor and high sodium content, they are best consumed in moderation.

Pair with fresh vegetables like cucumbers and tomatoes to balance the salty flavor and add fiber.
Chop and sprinkle over salads or whole-grain pasta dishes to distribute the flavor and reduce individual olive intake.
Use as a garnish for homemade pizzas or flatbreads, rather than eating a large quantity as a standalone snack.
Combine with unsalted nuts or seeds for a snack that offers a mix of healthy fats and protein, helping to mitigate the high sodium intake.
Things to keep in mind

The primary caution for LIDL JUMBO KALAMATA OLIVES, PITTED & SEASONED is its very high sodium content of 1857.14mg per 100g. Individuals monitoring their blood pressure or those advised to follow a low-sodium diet should consume this product with extreme moderation. The ingredient list includes canola oil, which is a common vegetable oil. While generally recognized as safe, some individuals prefer to limit their intake of certain processed oils. There are no common allergens explicitly declared on the label, but individuals with specific sensitivities should always review the full ingredient list. Due to the high sodium, this product may not be suitable for young children in large quantities.

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Reader questions
Is LIDL JUMBO KALAMATA OLIVES, PITTED & SEASONED healthy?
This product received a FoodScore of 35/100 (Poor), primarily due to its high sodium content. While it offers some iron and healthy fats, its overall nutritional density is low. It is best consumed in moderation as a flavorful addition to meals rather than a staple.
How does LIDL JUMBO KALAMATA OLIVES compare to other brands?
Compared to generic unbranded kalamata olives, this LIDL product has a similar nutritional profile, especially regarding its high sodium level. For example, brands like Pearls or Lindsay may offer similar products, and consumers should always check the nutrition facts panel for sodium and fat content to make informed comparisons.
What is the role of acetic acid in these olives?
Acetic acid is used as a preservative and flavor enhancer in many pickled and brined products, including olives. It contributes to the characteristic tangy flavor of kalamata olives and helps to extend their shelf life. It is a common and safe food additive.
What is a reasonable portion size for these olives?
The declared serving size is 3 olives. Given the high sodium content, sticking to this portion size or even less is advisable, especially if you are watching your sodium intake. Incorporating them into a larger dish can help distribute the flavor and reduce the amount consumed per bite.
Can I rinse these olives to reduce sodium?
Rinsing olives can help reduce some of the surface sodium, but it will not eliminate it entirely, as the salt has permeated the olives during brining. While it might slightly lower the sodium per serving, it's still important to consider the overall sodium contribution when adding them to your diet.

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Data & references