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

Pistachios vs Breakfast Cereal: 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?

Pistachios is generally healthier

Pistachios comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 4 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has more protein (20g vs 7g), more fiber (10g vs 6g), less sugar (7.7g vs 24g), less sodium (1mg vs 760mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Breakfast Cereal

379 kcal

More Protein

Pistachios

20g

More Fiber

Pistachios

10g

Less Sugar

Pistachios

7.7g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Pistachios
560
Breakfast Cereal
379
Proteinper 100g
Pistachios
20g
Breakfast Cereal
7g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Pistachios
28g
Breakfast Cereal
84g
Fatper 100g
Pistachios
45g
Breakfast Cereal
1.9g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientPistachiosBreakfast CerealDifference
Calories560kcal379kcal+181.0kcal
Protein20g7g+13.0g
Carbohydrates28g84g-56.0g
Fat45g1.9g+43.1g
Fiber10g6g+4.0g
Sugar7.7g24g-16.3g
Sodium1mg760mg-759.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

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

Pistachios

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

Breakfast Cereal

Per 100g:379 calories
Per cup (150g):569 calories
Per serving (85g):322 calories

Diet Compatibility

Pistachios

High-ProteinVeganVegetarianPaleoLow-Sodium

Breakfast Cereal

VeganVegetarian

When to Choose Pistachios

  • Higher in protein (20g vs 7g)
  • More fiber (10g vs 6g)
  • Lower in carbs (28g vs 84g)
  • Less sugar (7.7g vs 24g)
  • Lower sodium (1mg vs 760mg)

Common Uses

SnackingToppingsTrail mixBaking
View full Pistachios nutrition →

When to Choose Breakfast Cereal

  • Lower in calories (379 vs 560)

Common Uses

Side dishesBreakfastMeal baseEnergy food
View full Breakfast Cereal nutrition →

Pistachios vs Breakfast Cereal: Nutritional Analysis

Pistachios is more calorie-dense at 560 calories per 100g compared to 379 for Breakfast Cereal, a difference of 181 calories. On the protein front, Pistachios delivers more with 20g per 100g versus 7g, 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 Pistachios and Breakfast Cereal tell different nutritional stories. Pistachios provides 28g of carbohydrates, 45g of fat, and 10g of fiber per 100g, while Breakfast Cereal contains 84g carbs, 1.9g fat, and 6g fiber. The higher fiber content in Pistachios supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Pistachios contains 7.7g while Breakfast Cereal has 24g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Breakfast Cereal is the lower-calorie choice at 379 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Pistachios provides more protein (20g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Pistachios offers more fiber (10g/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, Pistachios or Breakfast Cereal?

Pistachios has more calories with 560 kcal per 100g, compared to Breakfast Cereal with 379 kcal. That's a difference of 181 calories per 100g serving.

Is Pistachios healthier than Breakfast Cereal?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Pistachios is generally the healthier choice, winning in 4 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Pistachios has 560 calories, 20g protein, and 10g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Pistachios and Breakfast Cereal?

Pistachios has more protein with 20g per 100g, compared to Breakfast Cereal with 7g. Pistachios provides 13.0g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Pistachios or Breakfast Cereal?

For weight loss, Breakfast Cereal is the better choice with only 379 calories per 100g compared to 560 calories in Pistachios. Pistachios also offers 10g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Pistachios or Breakfast Cereal have fewer carbs?

Pistachios has fewer carbs with 28g per 100g, compared to Breakfast Cereal with 84g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Pistachios is the better option with 56.0g 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.