Does extra-firm tofu contain dairy or gluten?

No, extra-firm tofu is made from soybeans and mineral coagulants. It is naturally dairy-free and gluten-free.

Is extra-firm tofu good for weight loss?

Yes, it is low in calories and sugar but high in protein, which helps keep you full and supports fat loss.

Where can I buy extra-firm tofu?

You can find it in the refrigerated produce section of major retailers like Walmart, Whole Foods, and Target, as well as on Amazon.

Is extra-firm tofu safe for kids?

Yes, it is safe for children. It contains no caffeine, very low sugar, and is a nutritious source of protein.

Is extra-firm tofu Keto?

Yes, extra-firm tofu is Keto. With its high protein content and minimal carbohydrates, it fits perfectly into a low-carb lifestyle. This article breaks down the ingredients and nutritional data to explain why this soy product is a staple for keto dieters.

The Ingredient Breakdown

When analyzing whether a product fits the Ketogenic diet, we look for hidden sugars and starches. Extra-firm tofu is remarkably clean, typically consisting of just three or four ingredients. Let's look at what goes into the block.

The primary ingredient is water. This is standard for tofu production and adds zero carbohydrates or calories, making it an ideal base for a diet that restricts carb intake.

The second ingredient is organic soybeans. Soybeans are naturally low in net carbohydrates and high in fat and protein. On Keto, the goal is to limit carbs while maintaining fat intake; soybeans provide the necessary protein without spiking insulin levels.

Finally, we have the coagulants: calcium sulfate and magnesium chloride. These are mineral-based agents used to curdle the soy milk into solid tofu. Neither of these adds any carbohydrates or sugars, ensuring the final product remains strictly low-carb.

Nutritional Value

To understand why extra-firm tofu works on Keto, we have to look at the numbers. A standard serving (approx. 100g) contains roughly 1 to 2 grams of net carbohydrates. This is negligible compared to the daily limit of 20-50 grams allowed on most Keto plans.

Fat content varies depending on the brand, but extra-firm tofu generally offers a decent amount of fat, especially if you cook it in oil or butter. However, the main draw is the protein. You get about 10-12 grams of protein per serving with very few calories.

Because it is low in sugar (usually less than 1g) and free of fillers like maltodextrin, it does not cause the blood sugar spikes that break ketosis. It is a 'safe' food that provides satiety without the carb load of other plant-based proteins like beans or lentils.