Whole food · Beverages
Photo: Wikipedia
Vodka is a clear, neutral distilled spirit, typically made from fermented grains or potatoes, known for its clean, crisp taste with minimal aroma. At 80 proof (40% ABV), it delivers a sharp, warming sensation on the palate. Nutritionally, it is a source of 'empty calories,' providing energy (231 kcal per 100g) with zero protein, carbs, fat, or micronutrients.
People love vodka for its remarkable versatility, acting as a blank canvas that can be infused with virtually any flavor, from citrus to herbs. It is the foundation of iconic cocktails like the Moscow Mule, Cosmopolitan, and Bloody Mary, deeply embedded in social and celebratory culture.
As an alcoholic beverage, it can impair judgment, and its high caloric content with no nutritional value can contribute to weight gain if consumed excessively. It may also cause dehydration and next-day discomfort. To mitigate, practice strict portion control (e.g., a standard 1.5 oz shot), hydrate with water between drinks, and avoid mixing with high-sugar syrups or sodas.
The word 'vodka' comes from the Slavic word 'voda,' meaning water, reflecting its historical use as a medicinal tonic and its clear, water-like appearance.
| Water | 66.6 g |
| Energy | 231 kcal |
| Energy | 967 kj |
| Protein | 0.00 g |
| Total lipid (fat) | 0.00 g |
| Ash | 0.01 g |
| Carbohydrate, by difference | 0.00 g |
| Fiber, total dietary | 0.00 g |
| Total Sugars | 0.00 g |
| Calcium, Ca | 0.00 mg |
| Iron, Fe | 0.01 mg |
| Magnesium, Mg | 0.00 mg |
| Phosphorus, P | 5.0 mg |
| Potassium, K | 1.0 mg |
| Sodium, Na | 1.0 mg |
| Zinc, Zn | 0.00 mg |
| Copper, Cu | 0.01 mg |
| Manganese, Mn | 0.00 mg |
| Selenium, Se | 0.00 ug |
| Vitamin C, total ascorbic acid | 0.00 mg |
| Thiamin | 0.01 mg |
| Riboflavin | 0.01 mg |
| Niacin | 0.00 mg |
| Pantothenic acid | 0.00 mg |
| Vitamin B-6 | 0.00 mg |
| Folate, total | 0.00 ug |
| Folic acid | 0.00 ug |
| Folate, food | 0.00 ug |
| Folate, DFE | 0.00 ug |
| Vitamin B-12 | 0.00 ug |
| Vitamin B-12, added | 0.00 ug |
| Retinol | 0.00 ug |
| Vitamin A, IU | 0.00 iu |
| Fatty acids, total saturated | 0.00 g |
| SFA 4:0 | 0.00 g |
| SFA 6:0 | 0.00 g |
| SFA 8:0 | 0.00 g |
| SFA 10:0 | 0.00 g |
| SFA 12:0 | 0.00 g |
| SFA 14:0 | 0.00 g |
| SFA 16:0 | 0.00 g |
| SFA 18:0 | 0.00 g |
| Fatty acids, total monounsaturated | 0.00 g |
| MUFA 16:1 | 0.00 g |
| MUFA 18:1 | 0.00 g |
| MUFA 20:1 | 0.00 g |
| MUFA 22:1 | 0.00 g |
| Fatty acids, total polyunsaturated | 0.00 g |
| PUFA 18:2 | 0.00 g |
| PUFA 18:3 | 0.00 g |
| PUFA 18:4 | 0.00 g |
| PUFA 20:4 | 0.00 g |
| PUFA 20:5 n-3 (EPA) | 0.00 g |
| PUFA 22:5 n-3 (DPA) | 0.00 g |
| PUFA 22:6 n-3 (DHA) | 0.00 g |
| Fatty acids, total trans | 0.00 g |
| Cholesterol | 0.00 mg |
| Tryptophan | 0.00 g |
| Threonine | 0.00 g |
| Isoleucine | 0.00 g |
| Leucine | 0.00 g |
| Lysine | 0.00 g |
| Methionine | 0.00 g |
| Cystine | 0.00 g |
| Phenylalanine | 0.00 g |
| Tyrosine | 0.00 g |
| Valine | 0.00 g |
| Arginine | 0.00 g |
| Histidine | 0.00 g |
| Alanine | 0.00 g |
| Aspartic acid | 0.00 g |
| Glutamic acid | 0.00 g |
| Glycine | 0.00 g |
| Proline | 0.00 g |
| Serine | 0.00 g |
| Alcohol, ethyl | 33.4 g |
Does vodka have carbs or sugar?
Pure, distilled vodka contains zero carbohydrates, sugars, or fats. However, flavored vodkas or cocktails made with mixers can add significant carbs and sugars.
Is vodka gluten-free?
While often distilled from gluten-containing grains like wheat or rye, the distillation process typically removes gluten proteins. Vodka made from potatoes, grapes, or corn is inherently gluten-free. Those with severe celiac disease should consult a doctor.
What does '80 proof' mean?
Proof is a measure of alcohol content. 80 proof means the beverage is 40% alcohol by volume (ABV). This is the standard strength for vodka in the United States.