When recipes list optional toppings or flavorings, are they included in nutritional information listed?
Unless a recipe specifies otherwise, you should assume that nutritional information such as calorie, fat, carbohydrate and sodium does not include any ingredients listed as optional. When the optional ingredients are extra herbs or spices, these add natural plant compounds called phytochemicals and they usually don’t change the calories or nutrients in the dish. Of course, if you are using a large amount of a chopped herb, more like a leafy green than a seasoning, it could significantly increase the amount of vitamin C or other nutrients. Toppings like grated cheese, sour cream and nuts, can add significant amounts of calories and nutrients. Part of the reason these aren’t included in nutritional analysis is that often no amount is listed. Grated Parmesan adds less than 15 calories for someone who adds just a couple teaspoons to their serving, yet it can add about 90 for the cheese lover who adds four tablespoons. Likewise, when a recipe lists “salt and pepper to taste,” realize that t
