Crispy Light Shrimp Tempura
Quick answer
A medium portion of Crispy Light Shrimp Tempura (120 g) contains 222 kcal, with 16.2 g of net carbohydrates and 13.8 g of protein. Its glycemic index is 50 (Low) for how fast it raises blood sugar, while its glycemic load per portion is 8.1 (Low) for its actual effect.
- Carbs16.8 g29.9%
- Protein13.8 g24.5%
- Fat11.4 g45.6%
- Fibre0.6 g
Percentages of total energy (calories)
Authentic Japanese tempura is very different from heavy Western fried food. The secret of its light crunch is an ice-cold batter mixed with iced water and fried in vegetable oil at a high, controlled temperature. The temperature difference creates a steam barrier that keeps the shrimp moist and limits how much oil gets in. Shrimp provides high-quality seafood protein and contains the antioxidant pigment astaxanthin that gives it its pink colour. Tempura is still a starch-coated fried food, though, which raises its calories and means it needs to be balanced thoughtfully.
💡 Smart Nutritional Guidance
Consumption advice
A balanced portion is 3 to 4 pieces (about 100 to 120g). Eat it with a large plate of steamed vegetables and a wakame seaweed salad so you feel full without ordering more fried food.
Best preparation methods
Eat it straight after frying, drained on a rack or paper, and go easy on the tentsuyu dipping sauce if it is heavily sweetened. The sauce may also contain mirin, so check it if you avoid alcohol.
Important Nutritional Note
Shrimp is one of the most common shellfish allergens and the batter contains wheat flour (gluten), so avoid it completely if you have either allergy.
Nutrition facts
| Nutrient | Per 100 g | Per typical portion (120 g) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 185 kcal | 222 kcal |
| Protein | 11.5 g | 13.8 g |
| Carbohydrate | 14 g | 16.8 g |
| Available carbohydrate | 13.5 g | 16.2 g |
| Fat | 9.5 g | 11.4 g |
| Dietary fibre | 0.5 g | 0.6 g |
The typical portion is approximate, for comparison purposes.
Comparison & smarter alternatives
Among the foods in Asian dishes with a glycemic index (33), it ranks 20 (lowest first).
Smart alternatives from the same family:
Frequently asked questions
Is Crispy Light Shrimp Tempura good for weight loss?
It can fit a balanced plan with portion control: a 120 g portion gives 222 kcal, and what matters most is your total daily intake and the rest of the meal.
How does Crispy Light Shrimp Tempura affect blood sugar?
Its glycemic index is 50 (Low), a clinically reviewed estimate rather than a laboratory measurement. A typical 120 g portion has a glycemic load of 8.1 (Low), so the effect of this portion on blood sugar is limited.
What is the nutritional value of a typical portion of Crispy Light Shrimp Tempura?
A typical 120 g portion of Crispy Light Shrimp Tempura provides about 222 kcal, 13.8 g protein, 16.8 g carbohydrate, 11.4 g fat and 0.6 g fibre.
Does shrimp tempura raise blood sugar quickly?
Its glycemic index is low (50). Although the coating contains wheat starch, the shrimp protein and the fat from frying slow stomach emptying and glucose absorption, and the glycemic load of a 120g portion is about 8.1.
Does shrimp tempura fit a weight-loss diet?
It can fit in moderation: a 120g portion gives about 222 kcal and 14g of protein, but it is best not to have it often if you are trying to lose weight.
What is the difference between shrimp tempura and ordinary breaded fried shrimp?
Tempura batter contains no breadcrumbs or milk. It is a thin layer of light flour and iced water that usually absorbs less oil than a thick Western coating.
Read also
- Prediabetes: How to Stop the Train and Lower Your HbA1cGuide
- Gestational Diabetes Guide: Normal Levels and Foods to EatGuide
References & Scientific Sources
- The glycemic index of this food is a clinically reviewed estimate by the WiBo Health medical team, not a laboratory measurement from the International GI Tables (Atkinson 2021). GI bands (low ≤ 55 · medium 56–69 · high ≥ 70) follow: ISO 26642:2010. Food products — Determination of the glycaemic index (GI) and recommendation for food classification. International Organization for Standardization; 2010. www.iso.org/standard/43633.html
- Definition of available carbohydrate and glycemic load: FAO/WHO. Carbohydrates in human nutrition: report of a joint FAO/WHO expert consultation. FAO Food and Nutrition Paper 66. Rome; 1998. www.fao.org/4/w8079e/w8079e00.htm
Reviewed by the WiBo Health medical team · Last reviewed 13 October 2026
Disclaimer: This guidance is for nutritional lifestyle orientation and does not constitute a diagnostic medical device under EU Regulation MDR 2017/745.