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

Black Beans vs Peanut Butter: 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?

Black Beans is generally healthier

Black Beans comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 4 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (132 vs 588), more fiber (8.7g vs 6g), less sugar (0.3g vs 9.4g), less sodium (1mg vs 459mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Black Beans

132 kcal

More Protein

Peanut Butter

25g

More Fiber

Black Beans

8.7g

Less Sugar

Black Beans

0.3g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Black Beans
132
Peanut Butter
588
Proteinper 100g
Black Beans
8.9g
Peanut Butter
25g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Black Beans
24g
Peanut Butter
20g
Fatper 100g
Black Beans
0.5g
Peanut Butter
50g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientBlack BeansPeanut ButterDifference
Calories132kcal588kcal-456.0kcal
Protein8.9g25g-16.1g
Carbohydrates24g20g+4.0g
Fat0.5g50g-49.5g
Fiber8.7g6g+2.7g
Sugar0.3g9.4g-9.1g
Sodium1mg459mg-458.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

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

Black Beans

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

Peanut Butter

Per 100g:588 calories
Per cup (150g):882 calories
Per serving (85g):500 calories

Diet Compatibility

Black Beans

VeganVegetarianPaleoLow-Sodium

Peanut Butter

High-ProteinVeganVegetarianPaleo

When to Choose Black Beans

  • Lower in calories (132 vs 588)
  • More fiber (8.7g vs 6g)
  • Less sugar (0.3g vs 9.4g)
  • Lower sodium (1mg vs 459mg)

Common Uses

SaladsStir-friesRoasted sidesSoups
View full Black Beans nutrition →

When to Choose Peanut Butter

  • Higher in protein (25g vs 8.9g)
  • Lower in carbs (20g vs 24g)

Common Uses

SnackingToppingsTrail mixBaking
View full Peanut Butter nutrition →

Black Beans vs Peanut Butter: Nutritional Analysis

Peanut Butter is more calorie-dense at 588 calories per 100g compared to 132 for Black Beans, a difference of 456 calories. On the protein front, Peanut Butter delivers more with 25g per 100g versus 8.9g, 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 Black Beans and Peanut Butter tell different nutritional stories. Black Beans provides 24g of carbohydrates, 0.5g of fat, and 8.7g of fiber per 100g, while Peanut Butter contains 20g carbs, 50g fat, and 6g fiber. The higher fiber content in Black Beans supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Black Beans contains 0.3g while Peanut Butter has 9.4g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Black Beans is the lower-calorie choice at 132 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Peanut Butter provides more protein (25g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Black Beans offers more fiber (8.7g/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, Black Beans or Peanut Butter?

Peanut Butter has more calories with 588 kcal per 100g, compared to Black Beans with 132 kcal. That's a difference of 456 calories per 100g serving.

Is Black Beans healthier than Peanut Butter?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Black Beans is generally the healthier choice, winning in 4 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Black Beans has 132 calories, 8.9g protein, and 8.7g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Black Beans and Peanut Butter?

Peanut Butter has more protein with 25g per 100g, compared to Black Beans with 8.9g. Peanut Butter provides 16.1g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Black Beans or Peanut Butter?

For weight loss, Black Beans is the better choice with only 132 calories per 100g compared to 588 calories in Peanut Butter. Black Beans also offers 8.7g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Black Beans or Peanut Butter have fewer carbs?

Peanut Butter has fewer carbs with 20g per 100g, compared to Black Beans with 24g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Peanut Butter is the better option with 4.0g 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.