Epic source
Energy
507 kcal · 25% DV target
A warm, woody seed from the Indonesian nutmeg tree, this spice provides a distinctive aromatic depth to both sweet and savoury dishes while offering a concentrated source of protective plant compounds.
Nutmeg contains various polyphenols (naturally occurring plant compounds) that contribute to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties .1610
Because it is a seed-derived spice, nutmeg is often excluded from certain specialized elimination diets, such as the Autoimmune Protocol (AIP), which may restrict seed-based seasonings to manage immune-related symptoms .12
Nutmeg is recognized as a functional ingredient in specialized diets because its aromatic compounds can improve the palatability and sensory quality of low-protein or restricted foods .4
Early research into the chemical composition of nutmeg oil suggests it may contain compounds with antibacterial and antifungal properties, though human clinical evidence for these effects remains limited .1
Petal shape shows the nine FoodCompass domains, including nutrient density, processing, satiety, fats, and phytochemicals.
507 kcal · 25% DV target
36.3 g · 47% DV target
28.6 g · 10% DV target
20.8 g · 74% DV target
25.9 g · 130% DV target
Not a benefit — best kept low
0.35 mg · 29% DV target
Seasonality has not been estimated for this ingredient yet.
Whole nutmeg retains flavour significantly longer than pre-ground powder.
Perennial tree crop with relatively low input requirements, though transport distances are typically high.
During the 17th century, the Dutch traded the island of Manhattan to the British in exchange for the tiny island of Run, which was then the world's only source of nutmeg.