French Shallots

Woolworths French Shallots

  • Whole food
  • Checked
  • Grade C
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The short answer

French Shallots by Woolworths has 31 kcal, 7 g carbs, 1 g protein and 0 g fat per serving (1 shallot (medium) of shallots (43g)).

Calories31kcal
Carbs7g
Protein1g
Fat0g
About it

French shallots, available from Woolworths, are a versatile ingredient often used in culinary applications for their mild, sweet flavor. While not a primary fuel source for endurance athletes, they can enhance the flavor profile of meals without overpowering other ingredients. Shallots are part of the allium family, similar to onions and garlic, and are often used in sauces, dressings, or raw in salsas. A single serving of shallots (43g) provides 7g of carbohydrates, making them a low-carb option. They are best consumed as part of a balanced meal rather than a standalone energy source. Their potassium content (142mg per serving) can support electrolyte balance, which is crucial for athletes, although the sodium content is minimal. While not a direct source of energy, shallots can contribute to the overall nutritional quality of meals consumed before or after training sessions.

  • Enhances meal flavor naturally
  • Low-calorie, low-carb option
  • Contains potassium for electrolyte balance

On the label per serving, 1 shallot (medium) of shallots (43g)

Energy130 kJ
Calories31 kcal
Carbs7.0 g
Sugar3.0 g
Fibre1.0 g
Protein1.0 g
Fat0.0 g
Saturated fat0.0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Sodium5 mg
Potassium142 mg
Caffeine0 mg

The numbers that matter on a training day

Carb density16.3%Carbs as a share of the food's weight: how hard it is on the gut at pace.
Glucose to fructose—Glucose with fructose lifts how much carb the gut can take in an hour.
Sodium per 100 kcal16 mgSalt for the energy it carries; sweat loses 300 to 600 mg an hour.
Energy density—Energy you carry per gram, when grams in the pocket matter.
Servings for 60 g an hour8.6How many an hour for a 60 g carb baseline.
Glycaemic profileShallots have a low glycemic impact due to their low carbohydrate content per serving, contributing minimally to blood sugar levels.

How we read foods ›

For endurance who it suits

Endurance verdict

While French shallots are not a direct source of energy for endurance activities, they can enhance the flavor of meals, making them more enjoyable and potentially aiding in overall dietary adherence. Their low calorie and carbohydrate content make them suitable for flavoring meals without impacting macronutrient targets significantly.

Who it is for

French shallots are ideal for endurance athletes who enjoy cooking and want to enhance the flavor of their meals without adding significant calories or carbohydrates. They are suitable for those looking to maintain a balanced diet while training and can be used in various dishes to provide a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.

Best sessions

Shallots are best used as part of meals consumed during recovery or on rest days when flavor enhancement is desired without significant caloric intake.

Pros
  • Low in calories and carbohydrates
  • Enhances flavor without overpowering
  • Contains potassium for electrolyte support
  • Versatile in culinary applications
Cons
  • Minimal carbohydrate contribution
  • Not suitable for intra-workout fueling
  • Low sodium content for electrolyte replacement
Watch out for
  • Potential for mild GI distress if consumed in large quantities
  • Minimal energy contribution for high-intensity sessions

Fuelling science in short

During a session

No, shallots are not practical for consumption during workouts due to their solid form and lack of rapid carbohydrate availability.

Glycaemic profile

Shallots have a low glycemic impact due to their low carbohydrate content per serving, contributing minimally to blood sugar levels.

Electrolytes

With 142mg of potassium per serving, shallots provide a modest contribution to electrolyte balance, although they lack significant sodium content.

Carb breakdown
Total carbs
7 g
Hourly capacity
N/A

Race day before, during and after

Suits it for
  • BeforeDO NOT USE
  • DuringDO NOT USE
  • AfterUSE
  • Carb loadDO NOT USE
  • Every dayUSE

Shallots are unsuitable for pre-race and during-race fueling due to their low carbohydrate content and solid form, which can slow gastric emptying. They do not contribute significantly to glycogen resynthesis or energy provision. However, they can be used in everyday meals and recovery settings to enhance flavor and provide minor electrolyte support.

NOT RECOMMENDED for pre-race use because shallots do not provide rapid carbohydrates or significant energy, and their fiber content may slow gastric emptying.

Pair it with
  • Pair with lean proteins for a balanced meal
  • Use in dressings to enhance salad flavors
  • Combine with other alliums for a depth of flavor

For practitioners the evidence

Evidence grade: C — Limited direct evidence supports the use of shallots in endurance contexts, primarily based on nutritional composition.

In a carb load

Shallots have a low carb density of 16.3g per 100g, making them unsuitable for carb-loading. A 43g serving provides only 7g of carbohydrates, contributing minimally to the 600-840g daily target for a 70kg athlete. The low carbohydrate yield per serving and high volume required make them impractical for effective carb-loading.

Digestion and absorption

Shallots undergo initial enzymatic breakdown in the mouth, followed by slow gastric emptying due to their solid form. In the small intestine, carbohydrates are absorbed via SGLT1 transporters, but the low carbohydrate content limits their impact on blood glucose. Any unabsorbed fiber may undergo fermentation in the colon, potentially causing mild GI distress.

Recovery

Shallots provide minimal carbohydrates and no protein, making them inadequate for standalone recovery. However, their potassium content can support electrolyte balance. To optimize recovery, they should be paired with protein sources to meet muscle protein synthesis thresholds and additional carbohydrates to replenish glycogen stores.

Downsides

Shallots may cause mild GI distress if consumed in large quantities due to fiber content. They offer minimal energy, making them unsuitable for pre-exercise consumption. Their low sodium content does not support significant electrolyte replacement, and their solid form can slow gastric emptying.

Don't use it when
  • Do not use during high-intensity sessions due to low energy contribution.
  • Do not rely on shallots for electrolyte replacement in hot conditions.
  • Do not consume in large quantities pre-race due to potential GI distress.
Clinical risks
  • High fiber content may cause GI distress if consumed in excess.
  • Low sodium content may not meet electrolyte needs during heavy sweating.
  • Minimal carbohydrate content limits energy availability for endurance events.
  • Solid form may slow gastric emptying, unsuitable for rapid energy needs.

Questions about French Shallots

How many carbs are in French Shallots by Woolworths?

7 g of carbs per serving (1 shallot (medium) of shallots (43g)), with 31 kcal and 1 g protein.

Can shallots be used during training?

No, shallots are not suitable for consumption during training due to their solid form and lack of rapid carbohydrate availability.

Are shallots good for recovery meals?

Yes, shallots can enhance the flavor of recovery meals, but should be paired with protein and carbohydrates for effective recovery.

Do shallots contain allergens?

Shallots are generally not associated with common allergens, but individuals with allium sensitivities should exercise caution.

How should shallots be stored?

Store shallots in a cool, dry place to maintain freshness and prevent moisture accumulation.

Can shallots be used in carb-loading?

No, shallots are not suitable for carb-loading due to their low carbohydrate content per serving.

What are the benefits of using shallots in meals?

Shallots provide a mild, sweet flavor that enhances dishes without adding significant calories or carbohydrates.

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