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

Peanuts vs Butter: 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?

Peanuts is generally healthier

Peanuts comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (567 vs 717), more protein (26g vs 0.9g), more fiber (9g vs 0g), making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Peanuts

567 kcal

More Protein

Peanuts

26g

More Fiber

Peanuts

9g

Less Sugar

Butter

0.1g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Peanuts
567
Butter
717
Proteinper 100g
Peanuts
26g
Butter
0.9g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Peanuts
16g
Butter
0.1g
Fatper 100g
Peanuts
49g
Butter
81g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientPeanutsButterDifference
Calories567kcal717kcal-150.0kcal
Protein26g0.9g+25.1g
Carbohydrates16g0.1g+15.9g
Fat49g81g-32.0g
Fiber9g0g+9.0g
Sugar4.7g0.1g+4.6g
Sodium18mg11mg+7.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

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

Peanuts

Per 100g:567 calories
Per cup (150g):851 calories
Per serving (85g):482 calories

Butter

Per 100g:717 calories
Per cup (150g):1076 calories
Per serving (85g):609 calories

Diet Compatibility

Peanuts

High-ProteinVeganVegetarianPaleoLow-Sodium

Butter

KetoLow-CarbVegetarianLow-Sodium

When to Choose Peanuts

  • Lower in calories (567 vs 717)
  • Higher in protein (26g vs 0.9g)
  • More fiber (9g vs 0g)

Common Uses

SnackingToppingsTrail mixBaking
View full Peanuts nutrition →

When to Choose Butter

  • Lower in carbs (0.1g vs 16g)
  • Less sugar (0.1g vs 4.7g)
  • Lower sodium (11mg vs 18mg)

Common Uses

BreakfastSnacksCooking ingredientPost-workout
View full Butter nutrition →

Peanuts vs Butter: Nutritional Analysis

Butter is more calorie-dense at 717 calories per 100g compared to 567 for Peanuts, a difference of 150 calories. On the protein front, Peanuts delivers more with 26g per 100g versus 0.9g, 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 Peanuts and Butter tell different nutritional stories. Peanuts provides 16g of carbohydrates, 49g of fat, and 9g of fiber per 100g, while Butter contains 0.1g carbs, 81g fat, and 0g fiber. The higher fiber content in Peanuts supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Peanuts contains 4.7g while Butter has 0.1g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Peanuts is the lower-calorie choice at 567 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Peanuts provides more protein (26g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Peanuts offers more fiber (9g/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, Peanuts or Butter?

Butter has more calories with 717 kcal per 100g, compared to Peanuts with 567 kcal. That's a difference of 150 calories per 100g serving.

Is Peanuts healthier than Butter?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Peanuts is generally the healthier choice, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Peanuts has 567 calories, 26g protein, and 9g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Peanuts and Butter?

Peanuts has more protein with 26g per 100g, compared to Butter with 0.9g. Peanuts provides 25.1g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Peanuts or Butter?

For weight loss, Peanuts is the better choice with only 567 calories per 100g compared to 717 calories in Butter. Peanuts also offers 9g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Peanuts or Butter have fewer carbs?

Butter has fewer carbs with 0.1g per 100g, compared to Peanuts with 16g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Butter is the better option with 15.9g 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.