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

Beef Jerky vs Peanuts: 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?

Peanuts is generally healthier

Peanuts comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has more fiber (9g vs 0.9g), less sugar (4.7g vs 9g), less sodium (18mg vs 2081mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Beef Jerky

316 kcal

More Protein

Beef Jerky

52g

More Fiber

Peanuts

9g

Less Sugar

Peanuts

4.7g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Beef Jerky
316
Peanuts
567
Proteinper 100g
Beef Jerky
52g
Peanuts
26g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Beef Jerky
11g
Peanuts
16g
Fatper 100g
Beef Jerky
8g
Peanuts
49g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientBeef JerkyPeanutsDifference
Calories316kcal567kcal-251.0kcal
Protein52g26g+26.0g
Carbohydrates11g16g-5.0g
Fat8g49g-41.0g
Fiber0.9g9g-8.1g
Sugar9g4.7g+4.3g
Sodium2081mg18mg+2063.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

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

Beef Jerky

Per 100g:316 calories
Per cup (150g):474 calories
Per serving (85g):269 calories

Peanuts

Per 100g:567 calories
Per cup (150g):851 calories
Per serving (85g):482 calories

Diet Compatibility

Beef Jerky

High-ProteinVeganVegetarian

Peanuts

High-ProteinVeganVegetarianPaleoLow-Sodium

When to Choose Beef Jerky

  • Lower in calories (316 vs 567)
  • Higher in protein (52g vs 26g)
  • Lower in carbs (11g vs 16g)

Common Uses

Between mealsMovie nightsPartiesTravel food
View full Beef Jerky nutrition →

When to Choose Peanuts

  • More fiber (9g vs 0.9g)
  • Less sugar (4.7g vs 9g)
  • Lower sodium (18mg vs 2081mg)

Common Uses

SnackingToppingsTrail mixBaking
View full Peanuts nutrition →

Beef Jerky vs Peanuts: Nutritional Analysis

Peanuts is more calorie-dense at 567 calories per 100g compared to 316 for Beef Jerky, a difference of 251 calories. On the protein front, Beef Jerky delivers more with 52g per 100g versus 26g, 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 Beef Jerky and Peanuts tell different nutritional stories. Beef Jerky provides 11g of carbohydrates, 8g of fat, and 0.9g of fiber per 100g, while Peanuts contains 16g carbs, 49g fat, and 9g fiber. The higher fiber content in Peanuts supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Beef Jerky contains 9g while Peanuts has 4.7g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Beef Jerky is the lower-calorie choice at 316 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Beef Jerky provides more protein (52g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Peanuts offers more fiber (9g/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, Beef Jerky or Peanuts?

Peanuts has more calories with 567 kcal per 100g, compared to Beef Jerky with 316 kcal. That's a difference of 251 calories per 100g serving.

Is Beef Jerky healthier than Peanuts?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Peanuts is generally the healthier choice, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Peanuts has 567 calories, 26g protein, and 9g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Beef Jerky and Peanuts?

Beef Jerky has more protein with 52g per 100g, compared to Peanuts with 26g. Beef Jerky provides 26.0g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Beef Jerky or Peanuts?

For weight loss, Beef Jerky is the better choice with only 316 calories per 100g compared to 567 calories in Peanuts. Peanuts also offers 9g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Beef Jerky or Peanuts have fewer carbs?

Beef Jerky has fewer carbs with 11g per 100g, compared to Peanuts with 16g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Beef Jerky is the better option with 5.0g 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.