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

Hummus vs Popcorn: 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?

Hummus is generally healthier

Hummus comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (166 vs 387), more protein (8g vs 3.5g), less sugar (0.4g vs 1.1g), making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Hummus

166 kcal

More Protein

Hummus

8g

More Fiber

Popcorn

15g

Less Sugar

Hummus

0.4g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Hummus
166
Popcorn
387
Proteinper 100g
Hummus
8g
Popcorn
3.5g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Hummus
14g
Popcorn
77g
Fatper 100g
Hummus
9.6g
Popcorn
4.5g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientHummusPopcornDifference
Calories166kcal387kcal-221.0kcal
Protein8g3.5g+4.5g
Carbohydrates14g77g-63.0g
Fat9.6g4.5g+5.1g
Fiber6g15g-9.0g
Sugar0.4g1.1g-0.7g
Sodium379mg2mg+377.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

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

Hummus

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

Popcorn

Per 100g:387 calories
Per cup (150g):581 calories
Per serving (85g):329 calories

Diet Compatibility

Hummus

VeganVegetarian

Popcorn

VeganVegetarianLow-Sodium

When to Choose Hummus

  • Lower in calories (166 vs 387)
  • Higher in protein (8g vs 3.5g)
  • Lower in carbs (14g vs 77g)
  • Less sugar (0.4g vs 1.1g)

Common Uses

Between mealsMovie nightsPartiesTravel food
View full Hummus nutrition →

When to Choose Popcorn

  • More fiber (15g vs 6g)
  • Lower sodium (2mg vs 379mg)

Common Uses

Between mealsMovie nightsPartiesTravel food
View full Popcorn nutrition →

Hummus vs Popcorn: Nutritional Analysis

Popcorn is more calorie-dense at 387 calories per 100g compared to 166 for Hummus, a difference of 221 calories. On the protein front, Hummus delivers more with 8g per 100g versus 3.5g, 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 Hummus and Popcorn tell different nutritional stories. Hummus provides 14g of carbohydrates, 9.6g of fat, and 6g of fiber per 100g, while Popcorn contains 77g carbs, 4.5g fat, and 15g fiber. The higher fiber content in Popcorn supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Hummus contains 0.4g while Popcorn has 1.1g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Hummus is the lower-calorie choice at 166 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: Popcorn offers more fiber (15g/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, Hummus or Popcorn?

Popcorn has more calories with 387 kcal per 100g, compared to Hummus with 166 kcal. That's a difference of 221 calories per 100g serving.

Is Hummus healthier than Popcorn?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Hummus is generally the healthier choice, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Hummus has 166 calories, 8g protein, and 6g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Hummus and Popcorn?

Hummus has more protein with 8g per 100g, compared to Popcorn with 3.5g. Hummus provides 4.5g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Hummus or Popcorn?

For weight loss, Hummus is the better choice with only 166 calories per 100g compared to 387 calories in Popcorn. Popcorn also offers 15g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Hummus or Popcorn have fewer carbs?

Hummus has fewer carbs with 14g per 100g, compared to Popcorn with 77g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Hummus is the better option with 63.0g 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.