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

Anchovies vs Tuna: 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?

Tuna is generally healthier

Tuna comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 2 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (132 vs 210), less sodium (41mg vs 1050mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Tuna

132 kcal

More Protein

Anchovies

29g

More Fiber

Anchovies

0g

Less Sugar

Anchovies

0g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Anchovies
210
Tuna
132
Proteinper 100g
Anchovies
29g
Tuna
29g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Anchovies
0g
Tuna
0g
Fatper 100g
Anchovies
12g
Tuna
1.3g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientAnchoviesTunaDifference
Calories210kcal132kcal+78.0kcal
Protein29g29g0.0g
Carbohydrates0g0g0.0g
Fat12g1.3g+10.7g
Fiber0g0g0.0g
Sugar0g0g0.0g
Sodium1050mg41mg+1009.0mg

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

Tuna

Per 100g:132 calories
Per cup (150g):198 calories
Per serving (85g):112 calories

Diet Compatibility

Anchovies

KetoLow-CarbHigh-ProteinPaleo

Tuna

Low-CarbHigh-ProteinPaleoLow-Sodium

When to Choose Anchovies

  • Higher in protein (29g vs 29g)
  • More fiber (0g vs 0g)
  • Lower in carbs (0g vs 0g)
  • Less sugar (0g vs 0g)

Common Uses

Main dishesMeal prepGrillingHigh-protein meals
View full Anchovies nutrition →

When to Choose Tuna

  • Lower in calories (132 vs 210)
  • Lower sodium (41mg vs 1050mg)

Common Uses

Main dishesMeal prepGrillingHigh-protein meals
View full Tuna nutrition →

Anchovies vs Tuna: Nutritional Analysis

Anchovies is more calorie-dense at 210 calories per 100g compared to 132 for Tuna, a difference of 78 calories. 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 Tuna tell different nutritional stories. Anchovies provides 0g of carbohydrates, 12g of fat, and 0g of fiber per 100g, while Tuna contains 0g carbs, 1.3g fat, and 0g fiber.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Tuna is the lower-calorie choice at 132 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Anchovies provides more protein (29g/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 Tuna?

Anchovies has more calories with 210 kcal per 100g, compared to Tuna with 132 kcal. That's a difference of 78 calories per 100g serving.

Is Anchovies healthier than Tuna?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Tuna is generally the healthier choice, winning in 2 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Tuna has 132 calories, 29g protein, and 0g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Anchovies and Tuna?

Anchovies and Tuna have the same protein content at 29g per 100g.

Which is better for weight loss, Anchovies or Tuna?

For weight loss, Tuna is the better choice with only 132 calories per 100g compared to 210 calories in Anchovies. Tuna also offers 0g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Anchovies or Tuna have fewer carbs?

Anchovies and Tuna have the same carbohydrate content at 0g per 100g.

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.