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

Peanuts vs Parmesan: 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?

Parmesan is generally healthier

Parmesan comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (431 vs 567), more protein (38g vs 26g), less sugar (0.7g vs 4.7g), making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Parmesan

431 kcal

More Protein

Parmesan

38g

More Fiber

Peanuts

9g

Less Sugar

Parmesan

0.7g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Peanuts
567
Parmesan
431
Proteinper 100g
Peanuts
26g
Parmesan
38g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Peanuts
16g
Parmesan
4.1g
Fatper 100g
Peanuts
49g
Parmesan
29g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientPeanutsParmesanDifference
Calories567kcal431kcal+136.0kcal
Protein26g38g-12.0g
Carbohydrates16g4.1g+11.9g
Fat49g29g+20.0g
Fiber9g0g+9.0g
Sugar4.7g0.7g+4.0g
Sodium18mg1529mg-1511.0mg

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

Parmesan

Per 100g:431 calories
Per cup (150g):647 calories
Per serving (85g):366 calories

Diet Compatibility

Peanuts

High-ProteinVeganVegetarianPaleoLow-Sodium

Parmesan

KetoLow-CarbHigh-ProteinVegetarian

When to Choose Peanuts

  • More fiber (9g vs 0g)
  • Lower sodium (18mg vs 1529mg)

Common Uses

SnackingToppingsTrail mixBaking
View full Peanuts nutrition →

When to Choose Parmesan

  • Lower in calories (431 vs 567)
  • Higher in protein (38g vs 26g)
  • Lower in carbs (4.1g vs 16g)
  • Less sugar (0.7g vs 4.7g)

Common Uses

BreakfastSnacksCooking ingredientPost-workout
View full Parmesan nutrition →

Peanuts vs Parmesan: Nutritional Analysis

Peanuts is more calorie-dense at 567 calories per 100g compared to 431 for Parmesan, a difference of 136 calories. On the protein front, Parmesan delivers more with 38g per 100g versus 26g, 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 Parmesan tell different nutritional stories. Peanuts provides 16g of carbohydrates, 49g of fat, and 9g of fiber per 100g, while Parmesan contains 4.1g carbs, 29g 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 Parmesan has 0.7g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Parmesan is the lower-calorie choice at 431 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Parmesan provides more protein (38g/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 Parmesan?

Peanuts has more calories with 567 kcal per 100g, compared to Parmesan with 431 kcal. That's a difference of 136 calories per 100g serving.

Is Peanuts healthier than Parmesan?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Parmesan is generally the healthier choice, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Parmesan has 431 calories, 38g protein, and 0g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Peanuts and Parmesan?

Parmesan has more protein with 38g per 100g, compared to Peanuts with 26g. Parmesan provides 12.0g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Peanuts or Parmesan?

For weight loss, Parmesan is the better choice with only 431 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 Parmesan have fewer carbs?

Parmesan has fewer carbs with 4.1g per 100g, compared to Peanuts with 16g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Parmesan is the better option with 11.9g 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.