Steggles Dino Nuggets are a popular frozen chicken nugget product shaped like dinosaurs. They are marketed towards children due to their fun dinosaur shapes. However, many parents wonder about the nutritional content of these nuggets. Specifically, how many calories are in each Steggles Dino Nugget?
Calories in Chicken Nuggets
In general, chicken nuggets are considered a processed food product. They are made from chopped and formed chicken meat that is breaded or battered and then deep fried. The breading adds additional calories from carbohydrates. Depending on the brand and preparation method, chicken nuggets can range from 40-60 calories per nugget on average.
Factors that affect the calorie count include:
- Size of the nugget – Larger nuggets contain more chicken and therefore more calories.
- Thickness of breading – Thicker breading adds more calories from carbohydrates.
- Frying method – Deep frying adds more oil and calories vs baking.
- Additives – Some brands add seasonings, spices, or fillers that can add calories.
When looking at any chicken nugget product, check the nutrition label for the calorie per serving information. The label will list the serving size (often a 4-6 nuggets) and total calories in that serving. You can then divide to calculate approximate calories per nugget.
Calories in Steggles Dino Nuggets
Steggles is a popular Australian brand of chicken products owned by JBS Australia. Their Dino Nuggets come in a 500g bag containing approximately 28 nuggets.
According to the Steggles website, the nutrition information per 100g of Dino Nuggets is:
- Calories: 205kcal
- Protein: 13g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
Given a 500g bag contains about 28 nuggets, each nugget is approximately 18g.
Therefore, the calorie count per Steggles Dino Nugget is:
205kcal x (18g/100g) = 37 calories
So each Steggles Dino Nugget contains approximately 37 calories.
This calorie amount is on the lower end for chicken nuggets since Steggles does not bread or fry their Dino Nuggets. Instead they are made from whole muscle chicken breast and simply seasoned and baked.
Steggles Dino Nugget Ingredients
Since the calories in any chicken nugget product depends on the ingredients used, it’s helpful to look at the ingredient list for Steggles Dino Nuggets:
- Chicken breast meat
- Chicken skin
- Flour
- Vegetable oil
- Salt
- Spices and herbs
- Raising agents
The simple ingredient list again confirms why Steggles Dino Nuggets are on the lower end of calories compared to heavily breaded and fried nuggets from fast food chains.
Nutritional Value of Steggles Dino Nuggets
While Steggles Dino Nuggets are lower in calories than many nugget products, they still provide protein and some fat needed in a balanced diet:
In a 37 calorie serving, you get:
- 6g of protein (essential for growth and repair of muscles)
- 3g of fat (provides energy and supports cell function)
Plus minerals like zinc and iron needed for immunity and healthy blood cells.
So while not the lowest calorie chicken product available, Steggles Dino Nuggets provide a good source of lean protein and nutrition for kids or adults seeking convenient frozen options.
Comparing Steggles Dino Nuggets to Other Brands
To get a better sense of how Steggles Dino Nuggets compare to other nugget products, here is a table comparing calorie counts across popular brands:
| Brand | Calories per nugget |
|---|---|
| Steggles Dino Nuggets | 37 |
| McDonald’s Chicken McNuggets | 50 |
| Tyson Fun Nuggets | 85 |
| Perdue Dinosaur Shaped Nuggets | 60 |
As you can see, Steggles has one of the lowest calorie counts per nugget compared to popular fried options from fast food chains like McDonalds. The breading and frying adds more calories per nugget for most other brands.
Healthier Alternatives to Dino Nuggets
While Steggles Dino Nuggets are a better option than heavily breaded nuggets, there are even healthier chicken products and preparation methods to consider:
- Grilled chicken breast – about 50 calories for a 3oz portion
- Baked chicken fingers – around 60 calories per piece
- Air fried nuggets – eliminates oil for calorie reduction
Going with plain chicken breast or baking/air frying reduces calories while still providing protein. Pairing chicken with fresh vegetables and whole grains can also increase the nutritional value of meals for children.
How Many Steggles Dino Nuggets Should You Eat?
When feeding Steggles Dino Nuggets to children, the recommended serving depends on their age:
- 2-3 years old – 2-4 nuggets
- 4-8 years old – 4-6 nuggets
- 9-13 years old – 6-10 nuggets
The breading and sodium content of chicken nuggets means they should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. For children who rely heavily on Steggles or other chicken nuggets for protein, try alternating with lean fresh meats, fish, beans, eggs, or dairy foods like yogurt.
Here is a sample meal plan with appropriate serving sizes of Dino Nuggets:
Breakfast:
– 1/2 cup yogurt with fruit
– 1 scrambled egg
– 1 slice toast
Lunch:
– 4-5 Steggles Dino Nuggets
– Small side salad
– 1/2 cup fruit or steamed vegetables
Dinner:
– 3oz lean pork chop
– 1/2 cup brown rice
– 1 cup milk
Following the recommended servings of Dino Nuggets as part of varied other protein sources and produce can help ensure a balanced nutritional intake.
Cooking Methods for Steggles Dino Nuggets
Steggles Dino Nuggets can be prepared by frying, baking or air frying. Here is a comparison:
Frying:
- Calories per nugget: 50
- Total fat: 5g
- Pros: Provides crispy texture
- Cons: Adds more calories and fat from oil
Baking:
- Calories per nugget: 37
- Total fat: 3g
- Pros: Healthier method without added fat
- Cons: Nuggets not as crispy
Air Frying:
- Calories per nugget: 40
- Total fat: 4g
- Pros: Makes nuggets crispy without added fat
- Cons: Need an air fryer appliance
Baking or air frying are the healthiest preparations. Baking may make the nuggets slightly less crispy while air frying provides the best of both worlds. Frying adds the most fat and calories so should be limited.
Tips for Serving Steggles Dino Nuggets
Here are some simple tips to make Steggles Dino Nuggets more nutritious:
- Avoid frying and bread nuggets with cracker crumbs or cornflake cereal to reduce calories. Stick to baking or air frying.
- Serve with homemade dips like yogurt, salsa or guacamole instead of heavy cream or cheese-based dips.
- Pair with a salad or roast vegetables to add nutrients. Good choices are carrots, broccoli, cauliflower or squash.
- Offer a whole grain like brown rice or whole wheat dinner roll to add dietary fiber.
- Watch portion sizes and limit to the recommended serving guidelines for children based on age.
Making small tweaks to how you prepare and serve Steggles Dino Nuggets can boost their nutritional value while still keeping it a convenient family-friendly food.
Are Steggles Dino Nuggets Healthy?
Steggles Dino Nuggets can be a healthy option when prepared properly, consumed in moderation and paired with other nutritious foods. Here are some key considerations when evaluating their health value:
- Lower in calories than heavily breaded, fried nugget options
- Provide lean protein from chicken breast
- Minimally processed with simple, recognizable ingredients
- No artificial colors, flavors or preservatives
- Contain some vitamins and minerals
- Prepare baked or air fried instead of fried
- Eat reasonable serving sizes based on age
- May be high in sodium – limit for those with hypertension
Overall, Steggles Dino Nuggets can fit into a balanced diet, especially for children, when consumed mindfully. They provide a quick protein option packed with kid-friendly fun. Keeping portion sizes in check and pairing with fruits, vegetables and whole grains can optimize their nutritional value.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about Steggles Dino Nuggets:
Are Steggles Dino Nuggets gluten free?
No, Steggles Dino Nuggets contain wheat flour so are not gluten free.
Can babies or toddlers eat Steggles Dino Nuggets?
Steggles does not recommend Dino Nuggets for children under 2 years old due to potential choking hazards from the shape/size. Always supervise young children while eating any hard or crunchy foods.
How long can you store Steggles Dino Nuggets in the freezer?
Properly stored in the freezer, Steggles Dino Nuggets will maintain quality for 12 months. Ensure the temperature remains 0°F or below.
How do you cook Steggles Dino Nuggets from frozen?
For best results, bake frozen Steggles nuggets on a pre-heated oven tray at 375°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. Adjust cooking times as needed if reheating after thawing.
Where can you buy Steggles Dino Nuggets?
Steggles products are sold at major Australian supermarkets like Coles, Woolworths and Aldi. Check the frozen food section.
Conclusion
Steggles Dino Nuggets can be a quick and convenient protein choice, especially for kids who enjoy the fun dinosaur shapes. When prepared baked or air fried and consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet, they provide lean protein, vitamins and minerals without too much fat or calories. Sticking to recommended serving sizes based on age and pairing with fruits, vegetables and whole grains can help ensure Steggles Dino Nuggets are part of a healthy diet. Monitoring calories, fat, sodium and ingredients is important when choosing any chicken nugget product. For the healthiest choice, minimized processed options like Steggles are a good option over heavily breaded and fried nugget alternatives.
