Calories in Tomato Juice: Full Nutrition Breakdown

Tomato juice is a low-calorie beverage with approximately 41 calories per 8 oz cup, making it a nutrient-dense choice for those watching their calorie intake. It is an excellent source of vitamins A and C, lycopene, and potassium, offering meaningful nutritional value in every glass. However, conventional tomato juice can be high in sodium, so it is worth checking labels or choosing low-sodium varieties.

Calories by serving size:

While tomato juice is low in calories and sugar compared to most fruit juices, its sodium content is a key nutritional consideration. A single 8 oz serving provides about 670 mg of sodium, which is roughly 29 percent of the recommended daily limit. Low-sodium versions typically cut this down to around 140 mg per cup while retaining the same calorie and nutrient profile, making them a better option for those monitoring sodium intake.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is tomato juice healthy?

Tomato juice is rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant linked to reduced risk of heart disease and certain cancers, as well as vitamins A and C. It is also one of the best juice sources of potassium, an essential mineral for blood pressure regulation. The main drawback is its typically high sodium content, which can be addressed by choosing low-sodium varieties.

How much sodium is in tomato juice?

A standard 8 oz cup of tomato juice contains approximately 670 mg of sodium, which accounts for about 29 percent of the daily recommended intake of 2,300 mg. Some brands and Bloody Mary mixes contain even more. Low-sodium tomato juice typically contains around 140 mg per 8 oz serving, making it a significantly better choice for heart health.

What is the difference between V8 and regular tomato juice?

V8 Original Vegetable Juice is a blend of tomato juice with small amounts of other vegetable juices including beets, celery, carrots, lettuce, parsley, spinach, and watercress. It has a slightly higher calorie count at about 60 calories per 11.5 oz can compared to roughly 41 calories per 8 oz of pure tomato juice. The added vegetables provide a somewhat broader micronutrient profile, but V8 also tends to be higher in sodium.

Are low-sodium tomato juice options available?

Yes, most major tomato juice brands offer low-sodium versions that contain around 140 mg of sodium per 8 oz serving compared to 670 mg in regular versions. These low-sodium varieties maintain the same calorie count, lycopene content, and vitamin profile. They are widely available in grocery stores and are an excellent choice for anyone on a sodium-restricted diet.

Is tomato juice better than eating whole tomatoes?

A medium raw tomato has about 22 calories and provides similar vitamins and lycopene as tomato juice, but with the added benefit of dietary fiber (about 1.5 grams) that is largely removed during juicing. Tomato juice does offer more concentrated lycopene per serving, and the processing actually makes lycopene easier for the body to absorb. However, whole tomatoes have the advantage of much lower sodium content and higher fiber, making them a better option for overall nutrition.