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

Pistachios vs Sour Cream: 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 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has more protein (20g vs 3.4g), more fiber (10g vs 0g), less sodium (1mg vs 28mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Sour Cream

193 kcal

More Protein

Pistachios

20g

More Fiber

Pistachios

10g

Less Sugar

Sour Cream

3.9g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Pistachios
560
Sour Cream
193
Proteinper 100g
Pistachios
20g
Sour Cream
3.4g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Pistachios
28g
Sour Cream
3.9g
Fatper 100g
Pistachios
45g
Sour Cream
20g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientPistachiosSour CreamDifference
Calories560kcal193kcal+367.0kcal
Protein20g3.4g+16.6g
Carbohydrates28g3.9g+24.1g
Fat45g20g+25.0g
Fiber10g0g+10.0g
Sugar7.7g3.9g+3.8g
Sodium1mg28mg-27.0mg

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

Sour Cream

Per 100g:193 calories
Per cup (150g):290 calories
Per serving (85g):164 calories

Diet Compatibility

Pistachios

High-ProteinVeganVegetarianPaleoLow-Sodium

Sour Cream

KetoLow-CarbVegetarianLow-Sodium

When to Choose Pistachios

  • Higher in protein (20g vs 3.4g)
  • More fiber (10g vs 0g)
  • Lower sodium (1mg vs 28mg)

Common Uses

SnackingToppingsTrail mixBaking
View full Pistachios nutrition →

When to Choose Sour Cream

  • Lower in calories (193 vs 560)
  • Lower in carbs (3.9g vs 28g)
  • Less sugar (3.9g vs 7.7g)

Common Uses

BreakfastSnacksCooking ingredientPost-workout
View full Sour Cream nutrition →

Pistachios vs Sour Cream: Nutritional Analysis

Pistachios is more calorie-dense at 560 calories per 100g compared to 193 for Sour Cream, a difference of 367 calories. On the protein front, Pistachios delivers more with 20g per 100g versus 3.4g, 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 Sour Cream tell different nutritional stories. Pistachios provides 28g of carbohydrates, 45g of fat, and 10g of fiber per 100g, while Sour Cream contains 3.9g carbs, 20g fat, and 0g 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 Sour Cream has 3.9g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Sour Cream is the lower-calorie choice at 193 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 Sour Cream?

Pistachios has more calories with 560 kcal per 100g, compared to Sour Cream with 193 kcal. That's a difference of 367 calories per 100g serving.

Is Pistachios healthier than Sour Cream?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Pistachios is generally the healthier choice, winning in 3 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 Sour Cream?

Pistachios has more protein with 20g per 100g, compared to Sour Cream with 3.4g. Pistachios provides 16.6g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Pistachios or Sour Cream?

For weight loss, Sour Cream is the better choice with only 193 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 Sour Cream have fewer carbs?

Sour Cream has fewer carbs with 3.9g per 100g, compared to Pistachios with 28g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Sour Cream is the better option with 24.1g 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.