Capers Nutrition Benefits and Facts

Nutritional summary

Capers are a traditional component of Mediterranean seasoning patterns, which are well-established for supporting cardiovascular health and reducing the risk of chronic diseases .
These flower buds are notable for their concentration of secondary metabolites, including terpenoids (aromatic compounds) and polyphenols such as quercetin and kaempferol, which contribute to the plant's defense system and unique flavor profile .
Early research suggests that the specific compounds in capers and similar Mediterranean herbs may support vascular health and modulate neuroinflammation (inflammation in the brain), though current evidence is primarily limited to preclinical and mechanistic studies .

Interesting fact

Capers are not actually a vegetable or fruit but are the hand-picked, immature flower buds of the Capparis spinosa plant, which must be harvested before they bloom.

Standout nutrients

EPIC

SOURCE

Chloride

EPIC

SOURCE

Sodium

EPIC

SOURCE

Total Polyphenols (Folin-Ciocalteu)

EPIC

SOURCE

Total Flavonoids

kcal per 100g

Protein2.20g

Fat0.90g

Carbs3.10g

Fiber3.60g

Sugar0.40g

Fat breakdown

Polyunsat0.30g

Monounsat0.10g

Saturated0.20g

Seasonality

Not available

Diet

VeganVegetarianPescatarianGluten FreeDairy FreeKetoLow FodmapPaleo

Sustainability

Lighter footprint

Caper bushes are drought-tolerant and grow well in poor soils with minimal irrigation.

Confidencemedium

Storage

Refrigerate After Opening

6–12 months

Keep submerged in brine to prevent spoilage.

Cool Dark Place

1–2 years

Unopened jars are shelf-stable.

Flavour

Data & Sources

Harmonized from 2 validated sources

Phenol-Explorer

1 contributing source food

Swiss Food Database

1 contributing source food

Claim citations

Health-Promoting Potential of the Mediterranean Diet and Challenges for Its Application in Aging Populations - PMC

[8]pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

The Mediterranean Diet: From an Environment-Driven Food Culture to an Emerging Medical Prescription - PMC

[11]pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Underrated aspects of a true Mediterranean diet: understanding traditional features for worldwide application of a “Planeterranean” diet - PMC

[12]pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Coverage

Nutrients

FoodCompass

88.3

Version

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