Gelato, the ice cream of Italy, is also popular frozen treat in America. Gelato comes in many flavors and bases. Ideally it is served fresh. Gelato is sometimes preferred over ice cream for its low-fat and lower calorie content. Gelato contains several micronutrients, including vitamins and minerals that make it an enjoyable, comparatively healthy snack.
Description of Gelato
Gelato is a type of ice cream that originates from Italy. Original gelato is made by combining whole milk, sugar and flavors and then cooling the contents. The end product is a dense frozen dairy substance that is rich in texture and flavor.
Types
Gelato can be made from a milk base, soy base, water base or sugar-free base. The end result and nutritional value will differ, depending on the liquid base and flavoring used. A milk base will have a higher cream and fat content than will a water-based fruit gelato, known as sorbeto. Gelato can come in flavors such as chocolate, hazelnut, strawberry, cherry, orange pistachio, melon, almond and many other fruit and nut flavors. The calorie and nutrition base of gelato also depends on added flavors or toppings. For example, chocolate gelato generally contains more calories than vanilla gelato, and gelato with nut toppings contains more protein than plain gelato.
Nutritional Information
A 3.5 oz serving of milk-based gelato contains between 120 and 160 calories, 4 g to 8 g of fat and 30 g to 45 g of carbohydrates due to its high sugar content. Milk- and soy-based gelato contains between 3 g and 5 g of protein, while sorbetto contains no protein. Milk-based gelato also contains around 100 mg of calcium, as well as potassium and vitamin A. Gelato made with fresh fruits and nuts also contains micronutrients from the particular fruits or nuts that are used.
Gelato vs American Ice Cream
Gelato and ice cream differ in several ways. Gelato is frozen and yields a denser product than ice cream, which is made through mixing and churning. Gelato also melts faster than ice cream because it has a half-frozen consistency. Ice cream has a higher butterfat content because it is made with cream, whereas gelato is made from whole milk. A 3.5 oz serving of American ice cream contains an average of 240 calories, 15 grams of fat and 24 g of total carbohydrates.
Allergy Information
Most gelato is dairy based. If you have an intolerance or allergy to lactose, you may opt for soy- or water-based gelato. Some gelato flavors also include nuts, so you should avoid these flavors if you suffer negative effects from consuming these types of foods. Other food colorings or additives may also be included in the ingredients of gelato, so inquire about food preparations and ingredients before consuming gelato.
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