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

Granola vs Sunflower Seeds: 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?

Granola is generally healthier

Granola comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (471 vs 584), more protein (9.4g vs 9g), more fiber (8.6g vs 8.6g), less sodium (5mg vs 9mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Granola

471 kcal

More Protein

Granola

9.4g

More Fiber

Granola

8.6g

Less Sugar

Sunflower Seeds

2.6g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Granola
471
Sunflower Seeds
584
Proteinper 100g
Granola
9.4g
Sunflower Seeds
9g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Granola
68g
Sunflower Seeds
20g
Fatper 100g
Granola
18g
Sunflower Seeds
51g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientGranolaSunflower SeedsDifference
Calories471kcal584kcal-113.0kcal
Protein9.4g9g+0.4g
Carbohydrates68g20g+48.0g
Fat18g51g-33.0g
Fiber8.6g8.6g0.0g
Sugar33g2.6g+30.4g
Sodium5mg9mg-4.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

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

Granola

Per 100g:471 calories
Per cup (150g):707 calories
Per serving (85g):400 calories

Sunflower Seeds

Per 100g:584 calories
Per cup (150g):876 calories
Per serving (85g):496 calories

Diet Compatibility

Granola

VeganVegetarianLow-Sodium

Sunflower Seeds

VeganVegetarianPaleoLow-Sodium

When to Choose Granola

  • Lower in calories (471 vs 584)
  • Higher in protein (9.4g vs 9g)
  • More fiber (8.6g vs 8.6g)
  • Lower sodium (5mg vs 9mg)

Common Uses

Between mealsMovie nightsPartiesTravel food
View full Granola nutrition →

When to Choose Sunflower Seeds

  • Lower in carbs (20g vs 68g)
  • Less sugar (2.6g vs 33g)

Common Uses

SnackingToppingsTrail mixBaking
View full Sunflower Seeds nutrition →

Granola vs Sunflower Seeds: Nutritional Analysis

Sunflower Seeds is more calorie-dense at 584 calories per 100g compared to 471 for Granola, a difference of 113 calories. On the protein front, Granola delivers more with 9.4g per 100g versus 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 Granola and Sunflower Seeds tell different nutritional stories. Granola provides 68g of carbohydrates, 18g of fat, and 8.6g of fiber per 100g, while Sunflower Seeds contains 20g carbs, 51g fat, and 8.6g fiber. Sugar content also differs: Granola contains 33g while Sunflower Seeds has 2.6g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Granola is the lower-calorie choice at 471 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Granola provides more protein (9.4g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Granola offers more fiber (8.6g/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, Granola or Sunflower Seeds?

Sunflower Seeds has more calories with 584 kcal per 100g, compared to Granola with 471 kcal. That's a difference of 113 calories per 100g serving.

Is Granola healthier than Sunflower Seeds?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Granola is generally the healthier choice, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Granola has 471 calories, 9.4g protein, and 8.6g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Granola and Sunflower Seeds?

Granola has more protein with 9.4g per 100g, compared to Sunflower Seeds with 9g. Granola provides 0.4g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Granola or Sunflower Seeds?

For weight loss, Granola is the better choice with only 471 calories per 100g compared to 584 calories in Sunflower Seeds. Sunflower Seeds also offers 8.6g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Granola or Sunflower Seeds have fewer carbs?

Sunflower Seeds has fewer carbs with 20g per 100g, compared to Granola with 68g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Sunflower Seeds is the better option with 48.0g 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.