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

Pistachio vs Tahini: 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?

Pistachio is generally healthier

Pistachio comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 4 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (560 vs 595), more protein (20g vs 17g), more fiber (10.6g vs 9.3g), less sodium (1mg vs 91mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Pistachio

560 kcal

More Protein

Pistachio

20g

More Fiber

Pistachio

10.6g

Less Sugar

Tahini

0.9g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Pistachio
560
Tahini
595
Proteinper 100g
Pistachio
20g
Tahini
17g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Pistachio
28g
Tahini
21g
Fatper 100g
Pistachio
45g
Tahini
53g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientPistachioTahiniDifference
Calories560kcal595kcal-35.0kcal
Protein20g17g+3.0g
Carbohydrates28g21g+7.0g
Fat45g53g-8.0g
Fiber10.6g9.3g+1.3g
Sugar7.7g0.9g+6.8g
Sodium1mg91mg-90.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

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

Pistachio

Per 100g:560 calories
Per cup (150g):840 calories
Per serving (85g):476 calories

Tahini

Per 100g:595 calories
Per cup (150g):893 calories
Per serving (85g):506 calories

Diet Compatibility

Pistachio

High-ProteinVeganVegetarianPaleoLow-Sodium

Tahini

High-ProteinVeganVegetarianPaleoLow-Sodium

When to Choose Pistachio

  • Lower in calories (560 vs 595)
  • Higher in protein (20g vs 17g)
  • More fiber (10.6g vs 9.3g)
  • Lower sodium (1mg vs 91mg)

Common Uses

SnackingToppingsTrail mixBaking
View full Pistachio nutrition →

When to Choose Tahini

  • Lower in carbs (21g vs 28g)
  • Less sugar (0.9g vs 7.7g)

Common Uses

SnackingToppingsTrail mixBaking
View full Tahini nutrition →

Pistachio vs Tahini: Nutritional Analysis

Tahini is more calorie-dense at 595 calories per 100g compared to 560 for Pistachio, a difference of 35 calories. On the protein front, Pistachio delivers more with 20g per 100g versus 17g, 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 Pistachio and Tahini tell different nutritional stories. Pistachio provides 28g of carbohydrates, 45g of fat, and 10.6g of fiber per 100g, while Tahini contains 21g carbs, 53g fat, and 9.3g fiber. The higher fiber content in Pistachio supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Pistachio contains 7.7g while Tahini has 0.9g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Pistachio is the lower-calorie choice at 560 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Pistachio provides more protein (20g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Pistachio offers more fiber (10.6g/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, Pistachio or Tahini?

Tahini has more calories with 595 kcal per 100g, compared to Pistachio with 560 kcal. That's a difference of 35 calories per 100g serving.

Is Pistachio healthier than Tahini?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Pistachio is generally the healthier choice, winning in 4 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Pistachio has 560 calories, 20g protein, and 10.6g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Pistachio and Tahini?

Pistachio has more protein with 20g per 100g, compared to Tahini with 17g. Pistachio provides 3.0g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Pistachio or Tahini?

For weight loss, Pistachio is the better choice with only 560 calories per 100g compared to 595 calories in Tahini. Pistachio also offers 10.6g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Pistachio or Tahini have fewer carbs?

Tahini has fewer carbs with 21g per 100g, compared to Pistachio with 28g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Tahini 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.