Best Zero-Calorie Cooking Spray: A Guide to Healthier Cooking

Cooking spray has become a popular alternative to traditional cooking oils and butter due to its convenience and ease of use. 

However, many people are concerned about the calorie count of cooking spray and whether it is truly a “zero calorie” option. 

In this article, we will analyze the calorie count of cooking spray based on the number of sprays, time per spray, and type of oil used. 

Using this information, we will identify the best zero-calorie cooking spray options that are available in the market. 

By the end of this article, you will have a better understanding of how cooking spray can fit into your healthy eating plan.

Best Zero-Calorie Cooking Spray

Our Top Pick

We have picked Chosen Foods Avocado Oil Spray as our top spray because of its high smoke point, healthy ingredients, and versatile uses. The spray is made with 100% pure, non-GMO avocado oil, which contains healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants.


What Is Zero-Calorie Cooking Spray?

Zero-calorie cooking spray is a type of cooking oil that has been processed in such a way that it has zero calories per serving. 

It is typically made from a blend of oils and other ingredients, such as lecithin, which help to create a smooth, non-stick surface when cooking. 

Zero-calorie cooking spray is a healthier alternative to traditional cooking oils and can help you reduce your calorie intake.

Benefits of Zero-Calorie Cooking Spray

There are many benefits to using zero-calorie cooking spray, including the following:

  • It has zero calories per serving, making it an ideal choice for those looking to reduce their calorie intake.
  • It is a healthier alternative to traditional cooking oils, which are high in calories and can be harmful to your health if consumed in excess.
  • It creates a non-stick surface when cooking, which helps to prevent food from sticking to the pan and burning.
  • It is easy to use and can be sprayed directly onto the food or the pan.
  • It comes in various flavors and can add flavor to your dishes without adding extra calories.

Best Zero-Calorie Cooking Sprays

There are many zero-calorie cooking sprays available in the market. Here are the top 5 best zero-calorie cooking sprays:

1. Chosen Foods Avocado Oil Spray

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Chosen Foods Avocado Oil Spray is made from 100% pure avocado oil and has a high smoke point of 500°F. 

It is free from chemicals, propellants, and emulsifiers, making it a healthy and natural alternative to traditional cooking oils. It is perfect for high-heat cooking, baking, and grilling.

PROS

  • Made with 100% pure avocado oil, which is high in monounsaturated fats and vitamin E.
  • A high smoke point of 500°F makes it suitable for high-heat cooking methods like grilling and searing.
  • Non-GMO, gluten-free, and vegan.
  • Comes in a non-aerosol-spray can.

CONS

  • Some users have reported issues with the spray nozzle clogging.

User Reviews

  • “I am so happy I discovered this product! It’s easy to use and adds a great taste to my dishes. Plus, it’s much healthier than using traditional oil. Highly recommend!” – Jane, Amazon
  • “I love this spray! It’s perfect for cooking and baking, and it’s also great for spraying on salads. Highly recommend!” – Sarah, Thrive Market

2. Pam Original Cooking Spray

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Pam Original Cooking Spray is a classic and versatile cooking spray that is perfect for all types of cooking. 

It is made from a blend of canola and palm oil and has zero calories per serving. It is also free from artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors. 

Pam Original Cooking Spray creates a non-stick surface that helps prevent food from sticking to the pan, making clean-up easier.

PROS

  • Affordable and widely available.
  • Suitable for all types of cooking methods.
  • Non-stick properties help to prevent food from sticking to pans.

CONS

  • The lower smoke point of 400°F is not ideal for high-heat cooking methods.
  • Contains soy lecithin, which may be a concern for those with soy allergies.

User Reviews

  • “This is a staple in my kitchen! It’s perfect for cooking and baking, and it’s so easy to use. Highly recommend!” – John, Walmart
  • “I’ve been using PAM for years and it never fails me. It’s a great way to reduce calories and fat in my cooking, and it never sticks to my pans.” – Emily, Amazon

3. Crisco Olive Oil Spray

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Crisco Olive Oil Spray is made from 100% extra-virgin olive oil and has zero calories per serving. 

It is free from artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives, making it a healthy alternative to traditional cooking oils. It is perfect for sautéing, grilling, and baking.

PROS

  • Made with olive oil, which is high in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
  • A high smoke point of 450°F makes it suitable for high-heat cooking methods.
  • Non-stick properties help to prevent food from sticking to pans.

CONS

  • Contains soy lecithin, which may be a concern for those with soy allergies.

User Reviews

  • “I was pleasantly surprised with how great this spray worked. It doesn’t leave any residue on my pans and it adds a great flavor to my dishes.” – Mark, Amazon.com
  • “I love using this spray for baking and roasting. It gives my food a great taste and it’s much healthier than using traditional oil.” – Katie, Walmart.com

4. Spectrum Naturals Coconut Oil Spray

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Spectrum Naturals Coconut Oil Spray is made from 100% organic coconut oil and has zero calories per serving. It is perfect for baking, sautéing, and stir-frying. 

This cooking spray is also free from chemicals and additives, making it a healthy and natural alternative to traditional cooking oils.

PROS

  • Made with coconut oil, which is high in medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) that may provide health benefits.
  • Suitable for all types of cooking methods.
  • Non-stick properties help to prevent food from sticking to pans.
  • Free from artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors.

CONS

  • The lower smoke point of 350°F is not ideal for high-heat cooking methods.
  • Coconut flavor may not be desirable for all recipes.

User Reviews

  • “This spray is perfect for cooking and baking. It adds a great flavor to my dishes and it’s much healthier than using traditional oil.” – Lisa, Thrive Market
  • “I love using this spray for sautéing vegetables. It adds a great coconut flavor and it’s so easy to use.” – Mike, Amazon

5. La Tourangelle Avocado Oil Spray

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La Tourangelle Avocado Oil Spray is made from 100% pure avocado oil and has a high smoke point of 500°F. It is perfect for high-heat cooking, grilling, and baking. 

This cooking spray is also free from chemicals, additives, and propellants, making it a healthy and natural alternative to traditional cooking oils.

PROS

  • Made with 100% pure avocado oil, which is high in monounsaturated fats and vitamin E.
  • A high smoke point of 500°F makes it suitable for high-heat cooking methods like grilling and searing.
  • Non-GMO, gluten-free, and vegan.
  • Comes in a non-aerosol spray can.

CONS

  • Slightly more expensive than some other cooking sprays.
  • Some users have reported issues with the spray nozzle clogging.

User Reviews

  • “I recently switched to this spray and I’m so glad I did! It adds a great taste to my dishes and it’s much healthier than using traditional oil.” – Rachel, Amazon
  • “This spray is perfect for roasting vegetables and meats. It adds a great flavor and it’s so easy to use.” – Tom, Walmart

Comparison Of Zero-Calorie Cooking Sprays

Here is a comparison of the zero-calorie cooking sprays based on their ingredients, calories per serving, and smoke point:

Cooking SprayIngredientsCalories per ServingTime per SpraySmoke Point
Chosen Foods Avocado Oil SprayAvocado Oil, Propellant01/3 second500°F
Pam Original Cooking SprayCanola Oil, Soy Lecithin, Dimethyl Silicone (for Anti-Foaming)01/3 second400°F
Crisco Olive Oil SprayOlive Oil, Soy Lecithin, Dimethyl Silicone (for Anti-Foaming)01/3 second450°F
Spectrum Naturals Coconut Oil SprayCoconut Oil, Soy Lecithin, Propellant01/3 second350°F
La Tourangelle Avocado Oil SprayAvocado Oil, Propellant01/4 second500°F

Is Cooking Spray Really 0 Calories?

The short answer is no, cooking spray is not really 0 calories. While it is true that cooking spray contains very few calories per serving, it is not completely calorie-free.

It will be yes only if you spray it for the recommended time, i.e., ¼ to ⅓ of a second, which is almost impossible to achieve. Even if you spray it for 3-4 seconds, which is an ideal time for spraying, you will consume comparatively fewer calories than traditional oils. 

According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), one spray of cooking spray contains about 3-5 calories. 

This may not seem like a lot, but if you use several sprays during cooking a meal, those calories can add up.

How Many Calories Are In Cooking Spray?

As mentioned earlier, one spray of cooking spray contains about 3-5 calories. However, the number of calories in a serving of cooking spray can vary depending on the brand and the type of oil used. 

Some brands of cooking spray advertise themselves as having 0 calories per serving, but this is not entirely true. 

In fact, the FDA allows food companies to label products as having 0 calories if they contain less than 5 calories per serving.

Things To Consider Before Buying A Cooking Spray

When choosing a zero-calorie cooking spray, consider the following factors:

  1. Ingredients: Look for cooking sprays that are made from natural ingredients and free from chemicals, additives, and preservatives.
  2. Smoke Point: Choose a cooking spray with a high smoke point if you plan to cook at high temperatures.
  3. Flavor: Some cooking sprays come in different flavors, such as garlic, butter, and olive oil. Choose a flavor that complements the dish you are making.
  4. Price: Consider the price of the cooking spray and how often you will need to replace it.

How to Use It?

Using zero-calorie cooking spray is simple. Here are the steps to follow:

  1. Shake the can well before use.
  2. Hold the can 6-8 inches away from the food or the pan.
  3. Spray a light, even coating on the food or the pan.
  4. Cook the food as desired.

Conclusion

It’s important to consider your specific needs and preferences when choosing a zero-calorie cooking spray.

If you’re looking for a high-heat cooking spray, then Chosen Foods Avocado Oil Spray or La Tourangelle Avocado Oil Spray might be the best choice. If you’re looking for a spray that’s affordable and widely available, then Pam Original Cooking Spray might be the way to go.

It’s also important to keep in mind any dietary restrictions or allergies you may have when choosing a cooking spray. Ultimately, the best zero-calorie cooking spray for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.

It is crucial to understand that cooking sprays are considered zero calories only if they are sprayed for the recommended duration, typically 1/4 to 1/3 of a second per spray. If sprayed for an extended period, the cooking spray will have calories proportional to the duration of the spray. 

It’s also important to remember that while zero-calorie cooking sprays may be a healthier alternative to traditional oils, they should still be used in moderation. 

Overall, if used correctly, zero-calorie cooking sprays can be a great addition to your healthy cooking routine.

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FAQs

  1. How Many Calories Is 0 Cal Spray?

    Zero-calorie cooking sprays typically contain less than 5 calories per serving, as they are made up of a very small amount of oil mixed with propellants and other additives.
    However, it is important to note that even if a cooking spray is labeled as “0 calories”, it still contains some calories and should be used in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

  2. Is Zero-Calorie Cooking Spray Healthier Than Traditional Cooking Oil?

    Yes, it is a healthier alternative to traditional cooking oil, as it contains fewer calories and is free from harmful additives and chemicals.

  3. Can I Use Zero-Calorie Cooking Spray On A Non-Stick Pan?

    Yes, it is safe to use on non-stick pans, as it creates a non-stick surface that helps prevent food from sticking to the pan.

  4. How Many Calories Are In One Serving Of Zero-Calorie Cooking Spray?

    Zero-calorie cooking spray has zero calories per serving if you spray for the recommended time, i.e., ¼ to ⅓ of a second.

  5. Can I Use It For Baking?

    Yes, zero-calorie cooking spray is perfect for baking, as it creates a non-stick surface that helps prevent food from sticking to the pan and helps ensure even baking.

  6. Is It Suitable For People On A Low-Fat Diet?

    Yes, zero-calorie cooking spray is an excellent option for people on a low-fat diet, as it contains no fat and therefore no calories.

  7. Can I Use Cooking Spray For Deep-Frying?

    No, it is unsuitable for deep-frying, as it has a low smoke point and cannot withstand high temperatures for an extended period.

  8. Why Is Avocado Oil Spray 0 Calories?

    Avocado oil spray is marketed as “0 calories” because it contains such a small amount of oil that the calories per serving are negligible.
    However, it is important to note that even if a cooking spray is labeled as “0 calories”, it still contains some calories and should be used in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

  9. Does Pam Butter Spray Have Calories?

    Yes, Pam butter spray does contain calories, although the amount is relatively low. Pam butter spray contains around 7-10 calories per 1/4 second spray, which is a very small amount.
    However, it is important to note that the calorie content of cooking sprays can vary depending on the brand and type. It is always a good idea to check the label for nutrition information before using any cooking spray.

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