Black Pudding Calories

Last reviewed: June 21, 2026

Black Pudding is a type of blood sausage made from pork blood, fat, oatmeal or barley, onions, and spices, formed into a thick sausage and sliced before frying or grilling. It is a staple component of the Full English Breakfast and beloved across Britain and Ireland. Its dense, rich, earthy flavour and satisfyingly thick texture make it a marmite food — people tend to love it or hate it. Despite its sometimes divisive reputation, black pudding has seen a culinary renaissance in recent years, appearing on restaurant menus as a gourmet ingredient.

280

Calories

14g

Protein

15g

Carbs

20g

Fat

Per serving: 2 slices (100g)

Nutrition Facts — Black Pudding

Nutrient	Per Serving (2 slices (100g))	% Daily Value
Calories	280 kcal	14%
Protein	14g	28%
Total Carbohydrates	15g	5%
— Dietary Fiber	1g	4%
— Sugars	1g	—
Total Fat	20g	26%

* Percent Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Black pudding is surprisingly nutritious — high in iron, zinc, and protein from the blood content. However, it is also high in saturated fat and sodium.

About Black Pudding

Blood sausages have been made throughout human history as a way to use the entire animal after slaughter — no part wasted. Black pudding in Britain dates back centuries, with regional variations across England, Scotland, Ireland, and Wales. Bury in Greater Manchester is particularly famous for its black pudding, with a dedicated market stall tradition stretching back generations. The World Black Pudding Throwing Championships are held annually in Ramsbottom, Lancashire, reflecting the pride British communities take in this ingredient.

Black Pudding — Calorie Variations

Variant	Calories
Bury Black Pudding	290 kcal
White Pudding (no blood)	260 kcal
Scottish Black Pudding	275 kcal
Irish Black Pudding	280 kcal

Cooking Tips

Slice to 1cm thickness for even cooking.
Fry in a dry pan or with minimal oil — it releases its own fat.
Grill for a crispier exterior without added fat.
Crumble into salads or bon bons as a gourmet application.

Healthier Alternatives to Black Pudding

Alternative	Calories	Why It's Better
Turkey Rasher	80 kcal	Lower fat breakfast protein
Smoked Salmon	130 kcal	Leaner, omega-3 rich
Poached Egg	70 kcal	Pure protein, minimal fat

Storage & Shelf Life

Keeps refrigerated for up to 5 days in packaging. Once opened, use within 3 days. Freezes well for up to 3 months — slice before freezing for easy use.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is black pudding made from?

Black pudding is made from pork blood mixed with fat, oatmeal or barley, onions, and spices. It is a blood sausage with a dense, rich texture.

Is black pudding healthy?

It is high in iron, protein, zinc, and B vitamins from the blood content. However, it is also high in saturated fat and sodium, making it best consumed in moderation.

What does black pudding taste like?

Black pudding has a rich, earthy, slightly metallic flavour with a dense, meaty texture. The oatmeal adds chewiness, and the spices (white pepper, mace) add warmth. It is deeply savoury.