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

Couscous vs Banana: 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?

Banana is generally healthier

Banana comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (89 vs 112), more fiber (2.6g vs 1.4g), less sodium (1mg vs 5mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Banana

89 kcal

More Protein

Couscous

3.8g

More Fiber

Banana

2.6g

Less Sugar

Couscous

0.1g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Couscous
112
Banana
89
Proteinper 100g
Couscous
3.8g
Banana
1.1g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Couscous
23g
Banana
23g
Fatper 100g
Couscous
0.2g
Banana
0.3g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientCouscousBananaDifference
Calories112kcal89kcal+23.0kcal
Protein3.8g1.1g+2.7g
Carbohydrates23g23g0.0g
Fat0.2g0.3g-0.1g
Fiber1.4g2.6g-1.2g
Sugar0.1g12g-11.9g
Sodium5mg1mg+4.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

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

Couscous

Per 100g:112 calories
Per cup (150g):168 calories
Per serving (85g):95 calories

Banana

Per 100g:89 calories
Per cup (150g):134 calories
Per serving (85g):76 calories

Diet Compatibility

Couscous

VeganVegetarianLow-Sodium

Banana

Low-CalorieVeganVegetarianPaleoLow-Sodium

When to Choose Couscous

  • Higher in protein (3.8g vs 1.1g)
  • Lower in carbs (23g vs 23g)
  • Less sugar (0.1g vs 12g)

Common Uses

Side dishesBreakfastMeal baseEnergy food
View full Couscous nutrition →

When to Choose Banana

  • Lower in calories (89 vs 112)
  • More fiber (2.6g vs 1.4g)
  • Lower sodium (1mg vs 5mg)

Common Uses

Fresh snacksSmoothiesDessertsBreakfast bowls
View full Banana nutrition →

Couscous vs Banana: Nutritional Analysis

Couscous is more calorie-dense at 112 calories per 100g compared to 89 for Banana, a difference of 23 calories. On the protein front, Couscous delivers more with 3.8g per 100g versus 1.1g, 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 Couscous and Banana tell different nutritional stories. Couscous provides 23g of carbohydrates, 0.2g of fat, and 1.4g of fiber per 100g, while Banana contains 23g carbs, 0.3g fat, and 2.6g fiber. The higher fiber content in Banana supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Couscous contains 0.1g while Banana has 12g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Banana is the lower-calorie choice at 89 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Couscous provides more protein (3.8g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Banana offers more fiber (2.6g/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, Couscous or Banana?

Couscous has more calories with 112 kcal per 100g, compared to Banana with 89 kcal. That's a difference of 23 calories per 100g serving.

Is Couscous healthier than Banana?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Banana is generally the healthier choice, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Banana has 89 calories, 1.1g protein, and 2.6g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Couscous and Banana?

Couscous has more protein with 3.8g per 100g, compared to Banana with 1.1g. Couscous provides 2.7g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Couscous or Banana?

For weight loss, Banana is the better choice with only 89 calories per 100g compared to 112 calories in Couscous. Banana also offers 2.6g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Couscous or Banana have fewer carbs?

Couscous and Banana have the same carbohydrate content at 23g per 100g.

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.