What are the health benefits and risks of drinking eggnog?
Eggnog is a rich holiday drink, not a health food. Store-bought eggnog is about 180 calories per half cup and high in saturated fat and sugar, according to an extension service. The main risk is salmonella from raw or undercooked eggs in homemade eggnog; use pasteurized eggs or cook the egg base to 160 degrees F.
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In this article
Is eggnog healthy?
Eggnog is a treat. It provides some protein from milk and eggs, but it is made with cream or whole milk, eggs and sugar, so it is also rich in calories, saturated fat and sugar. We do not list health benefits, because the benefits claimed in many articles are not supported by official sources.
What is in a glass of store-bought eggnog?
A University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension article lists regular store-bought eggnog at about 180 calories per half cup, with about 80 of those from fat, and the saturated fat reaching 25 percent of the Daily Value. A light version is about 110 calories. It also cites about 4 to 5 teaspoons of sugar per half cup. A 1.5-ounce shot of rum adds about 97 calories. Check the carton for your brand, since recipes and sizes differ.
What are the risks?
- Salmonella: the extension article says homemade eggnog causes many salmonella cases, usually from raw or undercooked eggs.
- Alcohol: adding alcohol cannot be relied on to kill bacteria.
- Calories and sugar: large servings add up quickly.
- Alcohol itself: spiked eggnog is an alcoholic drink; count it as one, and do not drink and drive.
How can you make eggnog safer?
- Use pasteurized egg products in place of raw eggs; they are often in the dairy or freezer section.
- Or cook the eggs and half of the milk to an internal temperature of 160 degrees F, stirring constantly, until the mixture coats a metal spoon.
- Chill the cooked base, then add the rest of the milk and flavorings.
- With store-bought eggnog, choose one made with pasteurized milk and eggs, and keep it refrigerated.
Who should be extra careful?
Pregnant women, young children, older adults and people with weak immune systems are more at risk from food poisoning, so they should avoid eggnog made with raw eggs.
How can you enjoy it with less sugar and fat?
| Option | Effect |
|---|---|
| Smaller glass | Fewer calories and sugar |
| Light or lower-fat eggnog | Fewer calories; check sugar |
| Mix half with milk | Less rich and sweet |
| Skip the alcohol | Saves calories and avoids alcohol |
People also ask
Is eggnog safe to drink?
Store-bought eggnog made with pasteurized milk and eggs is generally safe when refrigerated. Homemade eggnog with raw eggs carries a salmonella risk.
How many calories are in eggnog?
An extension service lists regular store-bought eggnog at about 180 calories per half cup and light eggnog at about 110. Check your carton.
Does alcohol make raw egg eggnog safe?
No. The extension article says alcohol cannot be relied on to kill bacteria.
Sources
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