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

Peanuts vs Couscous: 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 567), less sugar (0.1g vs 4.7g), less sodium (5mg vs 18mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Couscous

112 kcal

More Protein

Peanuts

26g

More Fiber

Peanuts

9g

Less Sugar

Couscous

0.1g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Peanuts
567
Couscous
112
Proteinper 100g
Peanuts
26g
Couscous
3.8g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Peanuts
16g
Couscous
23g
Fatper 100g
Peanuts
49g
Couscous
0.2g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientPeanutsCouscousDifference
Calories567kcal112kcal+455.0kcal
Protein26g3.8g+22.2g
Carbohydrates16g23g-7.0g
Fat49g0.2g+48.8g
Fiber9g1.4g+7.6g
Sugar4.7g0.1g+4.6g
Sodium18mg5mg+13.0mg

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

Couscous

Per 100g:112 calories
Per cup (150g):168 calories
Per serving (85g):95 calories

Diet Compatibility

Peanuts

High-ProteinVeganVegetarianPaleoLow-Sodium

Couscous

VeganVegetarianLow-Sodium

When to Choose Peanuts

  • Higher in protein (26g vs 3.8g)
  • More fiber (9g vs 1.4g)
  • Lower in carbs (16g vs 23g)

Common Uses

SnackingToppingsTrail mixBaking
View full Peanuts nutrition →

When to Choose Couscous

  • Lower in calories (112 vs 567)
  • Less sugar (0.1g vs 4.7g)
  • Lower sodium (5mg vs 18mg)

Common Uses

Side dishesBreakfastMeal baseEnergy food
View full Couscous nutrition →

Peanuts vs Couscous: Nutritional Analysis

Peanuts is more calorie-dense at 567 calories per 100g compared to 112 for Couscous, a difference of 455 calories. On the protein front, Peanuts delivers more with 26g 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 Peanuts and Couscous tell different nutritional stories. Peanuts provides 16g of carbohydrates, 49g of fat, and 9g of fiber per 100g, while Couscous contains 23g carbs, 0.2g fat, and 1.4g 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 Couscous has 0.1g 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: 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 Couscous?

Peanuts has more calories with 567 kcal per 100g, compared to Couscous with 112 kcal. That's a difference of 455 calories per 100g serving.

Is Peanuts healthier than Couscous?

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 Peanuts and Couscous?

Peanuts has more protein with 26g per 100g, compared to Couscous with 3.8g. Peanuts provides 22.2g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Peanuts or Couscous?

For weight loss, Couscous is the better choice with only 112 calories per 100g compared to 567 calories in Peanuts. Peanuts also offers 9g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Peanuts or Couscous have fewer carbs?

Peanuts has fewer carbs with 16g per 100g, compared to Couscous with 23g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Peanuts is the better option with 7.0g 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.