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

Couscous vs Hummus: 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?

Couscous is generally healthier

Couscous comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (112 vs 166), less sugar (0.1g vs 0.4g), less sodium (5mg vs 379mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Couscous

112 kcal

More Protein

Hummus

8g

More Fiber

Hummus

6g

Less Sugar

Couscous

0.1g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Couscous
112
Hummus
166
Proteinper 100g
Couscous
3.8g
Hummus
8g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Couscous
23g
Hummus
14g
Fatper 100g
Couscous
0.2g
Hummus
9.6g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientCouscousHummusDifference
Calories112kcal166kcal-54.0kcal
Protein3.8g8g-4.2g
Carbohydrates23g14g+9.0g
Fat0.2g9.6g-9.4g
Fiber1.4g6g-4.6g
Sugar0.1g0.4g-0.3g
Sodium5mg379mg-374.0mg

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

Hummus

Per 100g:166 calories
Per cup (150g):249 calories
Per serving (85g):141 calories

Diet Compatibility

Couscous

VeganVegetarianLow-Sodium

Hummus

VeganVegetarian

When to Choose Couscous

  • Lower in calories (112 vs 166)
  • Less sugar (0.1g vs 0.4g)
  • Lower sodium (5mg vs 379mg)

Common Uses

Side dishesBreakfastMeal baseEnergy food
View full Couscous nutrition →

When to Choose Hummus

  • Higher in protein (8g vs 3.8g)
  • More fiber (6g vs 1.4g)
  • Lower in carbs (14g vs 23g)

Common Uses

Between mealsMovie nightsPartiesTravel food
View full Hummus nutrition →

Couscous vs Hummus: Nutritional Analysis

Hummus is more calorie-dense at 166 calories per 100g compared to 112 for Couscous, a difference of 54 calories. On the protein front, Hummus delivers more with 8g per 100g versus 3.8g, 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 Hummus tell different nutritional stories. Couscous provides 23g of carbohydrates, 0.2g of fat, and 1.4g of fiber per 100g, while Hummus contains 14g carbs, 9.6g fat, and 6g fiber. The higher fiber content in Hummus supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Couscous contains 0.1g while Hummus has 0.4g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Couscous is the lower-calorie choice at 112 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Hummus provides more protein (8g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Hummus offers more fiber (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 Hummus?

Hummus has more calories with 166 kcal per 100g, compared to Couscous with 112 kcal. That's a difference of 54 calories per 100g serving.

Is Couscous healthier than Hummus?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Couscous is generally the healthier choice, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Couscous has 112 calories, 3.8g protein, and 1.4g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Couscous and Hummus?

Hummus has more protein with 8g per 100g, compared to Couscous with 3.8g. Hummus provides 4.2g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Couscous or Hummus?

For weight loss, Couscous is the better choice with only 112 calories per 100g compared to 166 calories in Hummus. Hummus also offers 6g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Couscous or Hummus have fewer carbs?

Hummus has fewer carbs with 14g per 100g, compared to Couscous with 23g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Hummus is the better option with 9.0g 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.