How Many Calories in Starfruit? Nutrition Facts & Macros
100 grams of starfruit has 31 calories
Protein 1g · Carbs 6.7g · Fat 0.3g
Starfruit (carambola) has just 31 calories per 100g — one of the lowest-calorie tropical fruits. Its distinctive star shape when sliced makes it a beautiful addition to salads and drinks. Rich in vitamin C (34.4mg — 38% DV), high in water content (91%), and low in sugar (3.98g). The crisp, slightly tart flesh has a flavor between apple, pear, and citrus.
130 kJ · per 100g · Water: 91.38 g
Calorie Calculator: Starfruit (Carambola)
100 g Starfruit (Carambola) contains 31 kcal
Calories by Portion Size
| Portion | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 medium starfruit (91g) | 28 kcal | 0.9g | 6.1g | 0.3g |
| 1 cup sliced (108g) | 33 kcal | 1.1g | 7.3g | 0.4g |
| 100 grams | 31 kcal | 1g | 6.7g | 0.3g |
Starfruit (Carambola) — Nutrition Facts
| Starfruit (Carambola) | per 100g |
|---|---|
| Calories | 31 kcal |
| Protein | 1.04 g |
| Fat | 0.33 g |
| Carbs | 6.73 g |
| Fiber | 2.8 g |
| Sugar | 3.98 g |
| Sodium | 2 mg |
| Potassium | 133 mg |
| Magnesium | 10 mg |
| Phosphorus | 12 mg |
| Vitamin C | 34.4 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.017 mg |
| Folate | 12 mcg |
| Water | 91.38 g |
Source: USDA FoodData Central (FDC ID: 171715) · Data verified April 2026
Variations
Fresh sliced
Slice crosswise into 5-8mm star shapes. Eat raw as a snack, add to fruit salads, or float in drinks as a garnish. The thin brown ridges can be trimmed with a peeler if desired, but they're perfectly edible. Pairs well with tropical fruits (mango, pineapple) and citrus dressings.
In salad
Starfruit adds a beautiful visual element and refreshing crunch to green salads. Combine with mixed greens, avocado, cucumber, and a citrus vinaigrette. Its mild tartness complements both sweet (mango) and savory (shrimp) ingredients. Adds only ~6 kcal per few slices.
As juice or smoothie
Blend 2-3 starfruits with water or coconut water for a refreshing juice (~60-90 kcal). The high water content means minimal fiber loss compared to other fruits. Combines well with pineapple, lime, and mint. For smoothies, add banana for creaminess. The natural tartness means no added citrus needed.
Dietary Perspectives
For Weight Loss
Starfruit is a dream fruit for weight loss — just 31 calories per 100g with 91% water content. A whole medium fruit has only 28 calories. The high water and fiber (2.8g) content provides satiety with minimal caloric impact. Low sugar (3.98g) compared to most tropical fruits (mango: 13.7g, banana: 12.2g). Use it to add volume and sweetness to meals without significant calories — in salads, as a snack, or infused in water.
For Athletic Performance
Starfruit is a solid hydration fruit for athletes — 91% water with 133mg potassium and 34.4mg vitamin C per 100g. The low caloric density means you can eat freely without impacting macros. Good post-workout hydration option alongside other fruits. The vitamin C supports recovery and immune function after intense training. Not a significant carb source for fueling (only 6.73g/100g) — pair with higher-carb fruits for glycogen replenishment.
For Keto
Starfruit is one of the most keto-friendly fruits — only 3.93g net carbs per 100g (6.73g total - 2.8g fiber). A whole medium starfruit has just 3.6g net carbs — easily fits any keto budget. Compare to berries (5-6g net), apple (11g), or banana (20g). The tartness adds variety without carb load. Use in keto salads or as a refreshing snack. One of the few tropical fruits that works on strict keto.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many calories are in starfruit?
Only 31 calories per 100g. A medium starfruit (~90g) has about 28 calories — extremely low for a fruit. With just 6.73g carbs (only 3.93g net carbs after fiber), it's one of the lightest tropical fruits available.
Is starfruit healthy?
Yes. Starfruit provides 34.4mg vitamin C (38% DV) per 100g, 2.8g fiber, and 133mg potassium. It's over 91% water, making it very hydrating. Low in sugar (3.98g/100g) compared to most fruits. The antioxidant content includes gallic acid, quercetin, and epicatechin.
How do you eat starfruit?
Wash, slice crosswise into star-shaped pieces (5-8mm thick). The entire fruit is edible — skin, flesh, and seeds. Remove the thin dark edge of each ridge if desired. Ripe starfruit is yellow with slightly brown edges, sweet-tart. Green starfruit is more sour — good for cooking or pickling.
Who should avoid starfruit?
People with kidney disease should AVOID starfruit. It contains caramboxin and oxalic acid, which healthy kidneys filter easily but damaged kidneys cannot. In people with kidney problems, this can cause serious neurological symptoms (star fruit nephrotoxicity). Always consult your doctor if you have kidney issues.
What does starfruit taste like?
Ripe starfruit tastes like a mix of apple, pear, grape, and citrus — mildly sweet with a refreshing tart note. The texture is crisp and juicy, similar to a firm grape. Unripe (green) starfruit is noticeably more sour. The flavor intensifies as the fruit turns from green to golden yellow.
How do you store starfruit?
Room temperature: 2-3 days (until fully yellow). Refrigerator: up to 1-2 weeks in a plastic bag. Choose firm fruits with vibrant color and minimal browning on the ridges. Slightly green starfruit will ripen at room temperature. Sliced starfruit oxidizes quickly — add lemon juice to prevent browning.