Written by CalorieData Nutrition TeamReviewed by a Registered DietitianLast Updated: March 2026

Anchovies vs Octopus: Nutrition Comparison

Which is healthier? Compare calories, protein, carbs, and more

Complete side-by-side nutrition comparison per 100g serving | Updated 2026

Which is Healthier?

Octopus is generally healthier

Octopus comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (82 vs 210), more protein (30g vs 29g), less sodium (577mg vs 1050mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Octopus

82 kcal

More Protein

Octopus

30g

More Fiber

Anchovies

0g

Less Sugar

Anchovies

0g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Anchovies
210
Octopus
82
Proteinper 100g
Anchovies
29g
Octopus
30g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Anchovies
0g
Octopus
2.2g
Fatper 100g
Anchovies
12g
Octopus
0.9g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientAnchoviesOctopusDifference
Calories210kcal82kcal+128.0kcal
Protein29g30g-1.0g
Carbohydrates0g2.2g-2.2g
Fat12g0.9g+11.1g
Fiber0g0g0.0g
Sugar0g0g0.0g
Sodium1050mg577mg+473.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

All values above are per 100g. Here's how they compare in common serving sizes:

Anchovies

Per 100g:210 calories
Per cup (150g):315 calories
Per serving (85g):179 calories

Octopus

Per 100g:82 calories
Per cup (150g):123 calories
Per serving (85g):70 calories

Diet Compatibility

Anchovies

KetoLow-CarbHigh-ProteinPaleo

Octopus

Low-CarbHigh-ProteinLow-CaloriePaleo

When to Choose Anchovies

  • More fiber (0g vs 0g)
  • Lower in carbs (0g vs 2.2g)
  • Less sugar (0g vs 0g)

Common Uses

Main dishesMeal prepGrillingHigh-protein meals
View full Anchovies nutrition →

When to Choose Octopus

  • Lower in calories (82 vs 210)
  • Higher in protein (30g vs 29g)
  • Lower sodium (577mg vs 1050mg)

Common Uses

Main dishesMeal prepGrillingHigh-protein meals
View full Octopus nutrition →

Anchovies vs Octopus: Nutritional Analysis

Anchovies is more calorie-dense at 210 calories per 100g compared to 82 for Octopus, a difference of 128 calories. On the protein front, Octopus delivers more with 30g per 100g versus 29g, which matters for muscle maintenance, satiety, and overall metabolic health. These differences become meaningful when you consider how each food fits into your daily dietary pattern rather than looking at any single nutrient in isolation.

Macronutrient Breakdown

The macronutrient profiles of Anchovies and Octopus tell different nutritional stories. Anchovies provides 0g of carbohydrates, 12g of fat, and 0g of fiber per 100g, while Octopus contains 2.2g carbs, 0.9g fat, and 0g fiber.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Octopus is the lower-calorie choice at 82 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Octopus provides more protein (30g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Anchovies offers more fiber (0g/100g), which slows digestion and provides steadier energy release.
  • Overall: Neither food is universally "better" than the other. The right choice depends on your specific nutritional goals, meal context, and dietary preferences. Both can play a role in a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which has more calories, Anchovies or Octopus?

Anchovies has more calories with 210 kcal per 100g, compared to Octopus with 82 kcal. That's a difference of 128 calories per 100g serving.

Is Anchovies healthier than Octopus?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Octopus is generally the healthier choice, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Octopus has 82 calories, 30g protein, and 0g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Anchovies and Octopus?

Octopus has more protein with 30g per 100g, compared to Anchovies with 29g. Octopus provides 1.0g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Anchovies or Octopus?

For weight loss, Octopus is the better choice with only 82 calories per 100g compared to 210 calories in Anchovies. Octopus also offers 0g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Anchovies or Octopus have fewer carbs?

Anchovies has fewer carbs with 0g per 100g, compared to Octopus with 2.2g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Anchovies is the better option with 2.2g fewer carbohydrates.

About Our Data

All nutrition data in this comparison is sourced from the USDA FoodData Central, the official food composition database maintained by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Values are based on 100g servings for accurate comparison.

Health Disclaimer: This comparison is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or dietary advice. Nutritional needs vary by individual. The best food choice depends on your personal health goals, dietary requirements, and preferences. Consult a healthcare provider or registered dietitian for personalized nutrition guidance.