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

Bacon vs Sunflower Seeds: 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?

Bacon is generally healthier

Bacon comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (541 vs 584), more protein (37g vs 9g), less sugar (1.2g vs 2.6g), making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Bacon

541 kcal

More Protein

Bacon

37g

More Fiber

Sunflower Seeds

8.6g

Less Sugar

Bacon

1.2g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Bacon
541
Sunflower Seeds
584
Proteinper 100g
Bacon
37g
Sunflower Seeds
9g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Bacon
1.4g
Sunflower Seeds
20g
Fatper 100g
Bacon
42g
Sunflower Seeds
51g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientBaconSunflower SeedsDifference
Calories541kcal584kcal-43.0kcal
Protein37g9g+28.0g
Carbohydrates1.4g20g-18.6g
Fat42g51g-9.0g
Fiber0g8.6g-8.6g
Sugar1.2g2.6g-1.4g
Sodium1717mg9mg+1708.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

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

Bacon

Per 100g:541 calories
Per cup (150g):812 calories
Per serving (85g):460 calories

Sunflower Seeds

Per 100g:584 calories
Per cup (150g):876 calories
Per serving (85g):496 calories

Diet Compatibility

Bacon

KetoLow-CarbHigh-ProteinPaleo

Sunflower Seeds

VeganVegetarianPaleoLow-Sodium

When to Choose Bacon

  • Lower in calories (541 vs 584)
  • Higher in protein (37g vs 9g)
  • Lower in carbs (1.4g vs 20g)
  • Less sugar (1.2g vs 2.6g)

Common Uses

Main dishesMeal prepGrillingHigh-protein meals
View full Bacon nutrition →

When to Choose Sunflower Seeds

  • More fiber (8.6g vs 0g)
  • Lower sodium (9mg vs 1717mg)

Common Uses

SnackingToppingsTrail mixBaking
View full Sunflower Seeds nutrition →

Bacon vs Sunflower Seeds: Nutritional Analysis

Sunflower Seeds is more calorie-dense at 584 calories per 100g compared to 541 for Bacon, a difference of 43 calories. On the protein front, Bacon delivers more with 37g per 100g versus 9g, 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 Bacon and Sunflower Seeds tell different nutritional stories. Bacon provides 1.4g of carbohydrates, 42g of fat, and 0g of fiber per 100g, while Sunflower Seeds contains 20g carbs, 51g fat, and 8.6g fiber. The higher fiber content in Sunflower Seeds supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Bacon contains 1.2g while Sunflower Seeds has 2.6g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Bacon is the lower-calorie choice at 541 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Bacon provides more protein (37g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Sunflower Seeds offers more fiber (8.6g/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, Bacon or Sunflower Seeds?

Sunflower Seeds has more calories with 584 kcal per 100g, compared to Bacon with 541 kcal. That's a difference of 43 calories per 100g serving.

Is Bacon healthier than Sunflower Seeds?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Bacon is generally the healthier choice, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Bacon has 541 calories, 37g protein, and 0g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Bacon and Sunflower Seeds?

Bacon has more protein with 37g per 100g, compared to Sunflower Seeds with 9g. Bacon provides 28.0g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Bacon or Sunflower Seeds?

For weight loss, Bacon is the better choice with only 541 calories per 100g compared to 584 calories in Sunflower Seeds. Sunflower Seeds also offers 8.6g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Bacon or Sunflower Seeds have fewer carbs?

Bacon has fewer carbs with 1.4g per 100g, compared to Sunflower Seeds with 20g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Bacon is the better option with 18.6g 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.