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

Cashews vs Doritos: 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?

Doritos is generally healthier

Doritos comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (490 vs 553), more fiber (3.5g vs 3.3g), less sugar (3g vs 5.9g), making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Doritos

490 kcal

More Protein

Cashews

18g

More Fiber

Doritos

3.5g

Less Sugar

Doritos

3g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Cashews
553
Doritos
490
Proteinper 100g
Cashews
18g
Doritos
6.5g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Cashews
30g
Doritos
59g
Fatper 100g
Cashews
44g
Doritos
25g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientCashewsDoritosDifference
Calories553kcal490kcal+63.0kcal
Protein18g6.5g+11.5g
Carbohydrates30g59g-29.0g
Fat44g25g+19.0g
Fiber3.3g3.5g-0.2g
Sugar5.9g3g+2.9g
Sodium10mg530mg-520.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

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

Cashews

Per 100g:553 calories
Per cup (150g):830 calories
Per serving (85g):470 calories

Doritos

Per 100g:490 calories
Per cup (150g):735 calories
Per serving (85g):417 calories

Diet Compatibility

Cashews

High-ProteinVeganVegetarianPaleoLow-Sodium

Doritos

VeganVegetarian

When to Choose Cashews

  • Higher in protein (18g vs 6.5g)
  • Lower in carbs (30g vs 59g)
  • Lower sodium (10mg vs 530mg)

Common Uses

SnackingToppingsTrail mixBaking
View full Cashews nutrition →

When to Choose Doritos

  • Lower in calories (490 vs 553)
  • More fiber (3.5g vs 3.3g)
  • Less sugar (3g vs 5.9g)

Common Uses

Between mealsMovie nightsPartiesTravel food
View full Doritos nutrition →

Cashews vs Doritos: Nutritional Analysis

Cashews is more calorie-dense at 553 calories per 100g compared to 490 for Doritos, a difference of 63 calories. On the protein front, Cashews delivers more with 18g per 100g versus 6.5g, 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 Cashews and Doritos tell different nutritional stories. Cashews provides 30g of carbohydrates, 44g of fat, and 3.3g of fiber per 100g, while Doritos contains 59g carbs, 25g fat, and 3.5g fiber. The higher fiber content in Doritos supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Cashews contains 5.9g while Doritos has 3g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Doritos is the lower-calorie choice at 490 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Cashews provides more protein (18g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Doritos offers more fiber (3.5g/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, Cashews or Doritos?

Cashews has more calories with 553 kcal per 100g, compared to Doritos with 490 kcal. That's a difference of 63 calories per 100g serving.

Is Cashews healthier than Doritos?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Doritos is generally the healthier choice, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Doritos has 490 calories, 6.5g protein, and 3.5g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Cashews and Doritos?

Cashews has more protein with 18g per 100g, compared to Doritos with 6.5g. Cashews provides 11.5g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Cashews or Doritos?

For weight loss, Doritos is the better choice with only 490 calories per 100g compared to 553 calories in Cashews. Doritos also offers 3.5g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Cashews or Doritos have fewer carbs?

Cashews has fewer carbs with 30g per 100g, compared to Doritos with 59g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Cashews is the better option with 29.0g 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.