65 kcal P 0.15g C 15.7g F 0.16g
🥦 Vegetables and Vegetable Products
Calories in Cabbage, red
Red cabbage is a natural pH indicator that shifts from red to blue depending on kitchen acidity.
34 kcal
What makes cabbage so powerful?
Red cabbage owes its striking purple-red hue to a class of water-soluble pigments called anthocyanins. These compounds are natural pH indicators, meaning their color shifts depending on the acidity or alkalinity of their environment. In acidic conditions, the leaves turn a vivid red or pink, while in alkaline conditions they shift toward blue or green. This is why traditional German red cabbage recipes often include vinegar or apples, which provide acid to keep the cabbage bright red during cooking. Without an acid, the vegetable can turn an unappetizing blue-gray. Anthocyanins also function as antioxidants in the human body, helping to neutralize free radicals. Interestingly, the same pigments are responsible for the reds and purples in blueberries, blackberries, and autumn maple leaves. Red cabbage contains significantly higher levels of anthocyanins than its green counterpart, which relies on chlorophyll for its color. This chemical property makes red cabbage not just a nutritious vegetable, but a fascinating edible indicator of kitchen chemistry.
pH Indicator Pigment
Anthocyanins change color based on acidity, turning red with vinegar and blue with baking soda.
High in Antioxidants
It provides more anthocyanins than green cabbage, supporting cellular defense against oxidative stress.
Pairs with Acid
Cooking with an acidic ingredient like apple cider vinegar preserves its bright red color.
💡 When & how to use it
To keep red cabbage vibrant during cooking, always add an acidic element like vinegar, lemon juice, or tart apples. Without acid, the anthocyanins will react with alkaline minerals in your tap water, turning the leaves a dull blue-gray. For a raw preparation, shred it finely and massage with a little salt or an acidic vinaigrette to break down the tough cell walls, making the leaves more digestible and tender. Store whole heads tightly wrapped in the refrigerator crisper drawer for up to two weeks.
Calories by Serving Size
100g
34 kcal
P 1.24g C 6.79g F 0.21g
1 RACC (85g)
29 kcal
P 1.1g C 5.8g F 0.2g
200g
68 kcal
P 2.5g C 13.6g F 0.4g
50g
17 kcal
P 0.6g C 3.4g F 0.1g
Full Nutrition Facts
Per 100g — daily values based on a 2,000 calorie diet
Nutrition Facts
Serving size: 100g
Calories 34
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 0.21g 0%
Sodium 11.7mg 1%
Total Carbohydrate 6.79g 2%
Protein 1.24g 2%
Vitamin C 53.9mg 60%
Calcium 31mg 2%
Iron 0mg 0%
Potassium 269mg 6%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
How does Cabbage fit your daily goals?
7 min
Walking to burn 34 kcal
2%
of 2,000 kcal daily goal
1.24g
protein (2% of daily 50g)
59
servings until 2,000 kcal
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many calories are in Cabbage, red?
Cabbage, red contains 34 calories per 100g. A standard serving of 1 RACC (85g) provides 29 calories. It is considered a very low-calorie food (under 50 kcal/100g), making it excellent for weight management.
How much protein does Cabbage, red have?
Cabbage, red provides 1.24g of protein per 100g, which is 2% of the 50g daily recommended value. It is not a primary protein source.
How many carbs are in Cabbage, red?
Cabbage, red contains 6.79g of carbohydrates per 100g .
Is Cabbage, red good for weight loss?
Yes! Cabbage, red is very low in calories (34 kcal/100g) and can be eaten in generous portions even on a calorie-restricted diet.
How do I track Cabbage, red calories accurately?
The easiest way to track cabbage is with CalRay. Simply snap a photo of your meal and the AI will automatically identify the food and calculate calories and macros based on the estimated portion size — no manual lookup required. You can also search by name and adjust gram weight manually.
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