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

Cashews vs Salmon: 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?

Salmon is generally healthier

Salmon comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (208 vs 553), more protein (25g vs 18g), less sugar (0g vs 5.9g), making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Salmon

208 kcal

More Protein

Salmon

25g

More Fiber

Cashews

3.3g

Less Sugar

Salmon

0g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Cashews
553
Salmon
208
Proteinper 100g
Cashews
18g
Salmon
25g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Cashews
30g
Salmon
0g
Fatper 100g
Cashews
44g
Salmon
13g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientCashewsSalmonDifference
Calories553kcal208kcal+345.0kcal
Protein18g25g-7.0g
Carbohydrates30g0g+30.0g
Fat44g13g+31.0g
Fiber3.3g0g+3.3g
Sugar5.9g0g+5.9g
Sodium10mg75mg-65.0mg

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

Salmon

Per 100g:208 calories
Per cup (150g):312 calories
Per serving (85g):177 calories

Diet Compatibility

Cashews

High-ProteinVeganVegetarianPaleoLow-Sodium

Salmon

KetoLow-CarbHigh-ProteinPaleoLow-Sodium

When to Choose Cashews

  • More fiber (3.3g vs 0g)
  • Lower sodium (10mg vs 75mg)

Common Uses

SnackingToppingsTrail mixBaking
View full Cashews nutrition →

When to Choose Salmon

  • Lower in calories (208 vs 553)
  • Higher in protein (25g vs 18g)
  • Lower in carbs (0g vs 30g)
  • Less sugar (0g vs 5.9g)

Common Uses

Main dishesMeal prepGrillingHigh-protein meals
View full Salmon nutrition →

Cashews vs Salmon: Nutritional Analysis

Cashews is more calorie-dense at 553 calories per 100g compared to 208 for Salmon, a difference of 345 calories. On the protein front, Salmon delivers more with 25g per 100g versus 18g, 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 Salmon tell different nutritional stories. Cashews provides 30g of carbohydrates, 44g of fat, and 3.3g of fiber per 100g, while Salmon contains 0g carbs, 13g fat, and 0g fiber. The higher fiber content in Cashews supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Cashews contains 5.9g while Salmon has 0g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Salmon is the lower-calorie choice at 208 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Salmon provides more protein (25g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Cashews offers more fiber (3.3g/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 Salmon?

Cashews has more calories with 553 kcal per 100g, compared to Salmon with 208 kcal. That's a difference of 345 calories per 100g serving.

Is Cashews healthier than Salmon?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Salmon is generally the healthier choice, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Salmon has 208 calories, 25g protein, and 0g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Cashews and Salmon?

Salmon has more protein with 25g per 100g, compared to Cashews with 18g. Salmon provides 7.0g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Cashews or Salmon?

For weight loss, Salmon is the better choice with only 208 calories per 100g compared to 553 calories in Cashews. Cashews also offers 3.3g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Cashews or Salmon have fewer carbs?

Salmon has fewer carbs with 0g per 100g, compared to Cashews with 30g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Salmon is the better option with 30.0g 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.