Calories in a Filet-O-Fish: Full Nutrition Breakdown

The McDonald's Filet-O-Fish is a breaded and fried fish fillet topped with a half slice of American cheese and tartar sauce, served on a steamed bun. At approximately 390 calories, it is one of the lower-calorie sandwich options on the McDonald's menu, though it provides a modest 16 grams of protein. The Filet-O-Fish has remained a menu staple since 1962, particularly popular during Lent and among those who prefer seafood over beef or chicken.

Calories by serving size:

The Filet-O-Fish is relatively moderate in sodium at 580 mg compared to other McDonald's sandwiches, but its protein content of 16 grams is lower than most alternatives. The tartar sauce contributes a meaningful amount of the total fat, and requesting it without sauce can save roughly 60-70 calories from the overall sandwich.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is a Filet-O-Fish a healthy choice at McDonald's?

At 390 calories and 580 mg of sodium, the Filet-O-Fish is one of the lighter sandwich options on the McDonald's menu, lower in both calories and sodium than a Big Mac or Quarter Pounder. However, the fish fillet is breaded and deep-fried, which adds fat and refined carbohydrates that diminish some of the nutritional benefits of fish. It can be a reasonable choice when eaten occasionally, but it is not comparable to grilled or baked fish in terms of health value.

Is the Filet-O-Fish made with real fish?

Yes, the Filet-O-Fish is made with wild-caught Alaska Pollock, a sustainable whitefish sourced from certified fisheries. Alaska Pollock is a mild, flaky fish that is naturally low in fat and a good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids before breading and frying. McDonald's has maintained its commitment to sustainably sourced fish, with the Filet-O-Fish carrying Marine Stewardship Council certification.

How does the Filet-O-Fish compare to the McChicken?

The Filet-O-Fish has 390 calories and 16 grams of protein, while the McChicken has 400 calories and 14 grams of protein, making them very similar in calorie count. The Filet-O-Fish has slightly less total fat at 19 grams versus 21 grams and slightly more sodium. The choice between them is largely a matter of taste preference, as their nutritional profiles are comparable overall.

How many calories are in the tartar sauce on a Filet-O-Fish?

The tartar sauce on a Filet-O-Fish adds approximately 60-70 calories and about 7 grams of fat to the sandwich. It is a mayonnaise-based sauce with relish and seasonings, making it one of the higher-calorie condiments at McDonald's. Ordering the Filet-O-Fish without tartar sauce drops the total to around 320-330 calories and significantly reduces the fat content.

How much protein is in a Filet-O-Fish?

A standard Filet-O-Fish provides 16 grams of protein, which is lower than most other McDonald's sandwiches like the Big Mac at 26 grams or the Quarter Pounder at 30 grams. The Double Filet-O-Fish increases the protein to 26 grams with its second fish fillet, though it also raises the calorie count to 560. If protein is a priority, the Filet-O-Fish is not the most efficient choice on the McDonald's menu.