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

Ham vs Shrimp: 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?

Shrimp is generally healthier

Shrimp comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 4 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (99 vs 145), more protein (24g vs 21g), less sugar (0g vs 1.5g), less sodium (148mg vs 1203mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Shrimp

99 kcal

More Protein

Shrimp

24g

More Fiber

Ham

0g

Less Sugar

Shrimp

0g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Ham
145
Shrimp
99
Proteinper 100g
Ham
21g
Shrimp
24g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Ham
1.5g
Shrimp
0.2g
Fatper 100g
Ham
6g
Shrimp
0.3g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientHamShrimpDifference
Calories145kcal99kcal+46.0kcal
Protein21g24g-3.0g
Carbohydrates1.5g0.2g+1.3g
Fat6g0.3g+5.7g
Fiber0g0g0.0g
Sugar1.5g0g+1.5g
Sodium1203mg148mg+1055.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

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

Ham

Per 100g:145 calories
Per cup (150g):218 calories
Per serving (85g):123 calories

Shrimp

Per 100g:99 calories
Per cup (150g):149 calories
Per serving (85g):84 calories

Diet Compatibility

Ham

Low-CarbHigh-ProteinPaleo

Shrimp

Low-CarbHigh-ProteinLow-CaloriePaleoLow-Sodium

When to Choose Ham

  • More fiber (0g vs 0g)

Common Uses

Main dishesMeal prepGrillingHigh-protein meals
View full Ham nutrition →

When to Choose Shrimp

  • Lower in calories (99 vs 145)
  • Higher in protein (24g vs 21g)
  • Lower in carbs (0.2g vs 1.5g)
  • Less sugar (0g vs 1.5g)
  • Lower sodium (148mg vs 1203mg)

Common Uses

Main dishesMeal prepGrillingHigh-protein meals
View full Shrimp nutrition →

Ham vs Shrimp: Nutritional Analysis

Ham is more calorie-dense at 145 calories per 100g compared to 99 for Shrimp, a difference of 46 calories. On the protein front, Shrimp delivers more with 24g per 100g versus 21g, 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 Ham and Shrimp tell different nutritional stories. Ham provides 1.5g of carbohydrates, 6g of fat, and 0g of fiber per 100g, while Shrimp contains 0.2g carbs, 0.3g fat, and 0g fiber. Sugar content also differs: Ham contains 1.5g while Shrimp has 0g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Shrimp is the lower-calorie choice at 99 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Shrimp provides more protein (24g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Ham offers more fiber (0g/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, Ham or Shrimp?

Ham has more calories with 145 kcal per 100g, compared to Shrimp with 99 kcal. That's a difference of 46 calories per 100g serving.

Is Ham healthier than Shrimp?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Shrimp is generally the healthier choice, winning in 4 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Shrimp has 99 calories, 24g protein, and 0g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Ham and Shrimp?

Shrimp has more protein with 24g per 100g, compared to Ham with 21g. Shrimp provides 3.0g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Ham or Shrimp?

For weight loss, Shrimp is the better choice with only 99 calories per 100g compared to 145 calories in Ham. Shrimp also offers 0g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Ham or Shrimp have fewer carbs?

Shrimp has fewer carbs with 0.2g per 100g, compared to Ham with 1.5g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Shrimp is the better option with 1.3g 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.