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

Peanuts vs Donut: 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 4 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has more protein (26g vs 3g), more fiber (9g vs 1.4g), less sugar (4.7g vs 21g), less sodium (18mg vs 386mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Donut

452 kcal

More Protein

Peanuts

26g

More Fiber

Peanuts

9g

Less Sugar

Peanuts

4.7g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Peanuts
567
Donut
452
Proteinper 100g
Peanuts
26g
Donut
3g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Peanuts
16g
Donut
51g
Fatper 100g
Peanuts
49g
Donut
25g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientPeanutsDonutDifference
Calories567kcal452kcal+115.0kcal
Protein26g3g+23.0g
Carbohydrates16g51g-35.0g
Fat49g25g+24.0g
Fiber9g1.4g+7.6g
Sugar4.7g21g-16.3g
Sodium18mg386mg-368.0mg

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

Donut

Per 100g:452 calories
Per cup (150g):678 calories
Per serving (85g):384 calories

Diet Compatibility

Peanuts

High-ProteinVeganVegetarianPaleoLow-Sodium

Donut

VeganVegetarian

When to Choose Peanuts

  • Higher in protein (26g vs 3g)
  • More fiber (9g vs 1.4g)
  • Lower in carbs (16g vs 51g)
  • Less sugar (4.7g vs 21g)
  • Lower sodium (18mg vs 386mg)

Common Uses

SnackingToppingsTrail mixBaking
View full Peanuts nutrition →

When to Choose Donut

  • Lower in calories (452 vs 567)

Common Uses

TreatsCelebrationsComfort foodSocial occasions
View full Donut nutrition →

Peanuts vs Donut: Nutritional Analysis

Peanuts is more calorie-dense at 567 calories per 100g compared to 452 for Donut, a difference of 115 calories. On the protein front, Peanuts delivers more with 26g per 100g versus 3g, 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 Donut tell different nutritional stories. Peanuts provides 16g of carbohydrates, 49g of fat, and 9g of fiber per 100g, while Donut contains 51g carbs, 25g 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 Donut has 21g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Donut is the lower-calorie choice at 452 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 Donut?

Peanuts has more calories with 567 kcal per 100g, compared to Donut with 452 kcal. That's a difference of 115 calories per 100g serving.

Is Peanuts healthier than Donut?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Peanuts is generally the healthier choice, winning in 4 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 Donut?

Peanuts has more protein with 26g per 100g, compared to Donut with 3g. Peanuts provides 23.0g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Peanuts or Donut?

For weight loss, Donut is the better choice with only 452 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 Donut have fewer carbs?

Peanuts has fewer carbs with 16g per 100g, compared to Donut with 51g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Peanuts is the better option with 35.0g 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.