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

Popcorn vs Almond Butter: 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?

Popcorn is generally healthier

Popcorn comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 4 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (387 vs 614), more fiber (15g vs 10g), less sugar (1.1g vs 6g), less sodium (2mg vs 7mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Popcorn

387 kcal

More Protein

Almond Butter

21g

More Fiber

Popcorn

15g

Less Sugar

Popcorn

1.1g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Popcorn
387
Almond Butter
614
Proteinper 100g
Popcorn
3.5g
Almond Butter
21g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Popcorn
77g
Almond Butter
19g
Fatper 100g
Popcorn
4.5g
Almond Butter
56g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientPopcornAlmond ButterDifference
Calories387kcal614kcal-227.0kcal
Protein3.5g21g-17.5g
Carbohydrates77g19g+58.0g
Fat4.5g56g-51.5g
Fiber15g10g+5.0g
Sugar1.1g6g-4.9g
Sodium2mg7mg-5.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

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

Popcorn

Per 100g:387 calories
Per cup (150g):581 calories
Per serving (85g):329 calories

Almond Butter

Per 100g:614 calories
Per cup (150g):921 calories
Per serving (85g):522 calories

Diet Compatibility

Popcorn

VeganVegetarianLow-Sodium

Almond Butter

High-ProteinVeganVegetarianPaleoLow-Sodium

When to Choose Popcorn

  • Lower in calories (387 vs 614)
  • More fiber (15g vs 10g)
  • Less sugar (1.1g vs 6g)
  • Lower sodium (2mg vs 7mg)

Common Uses

Between mealsMovie nightsPartiesTravel food
View full Popcorn nutrition →

When to Choose Almond Butter

  • Higher in protein (21g vs 3.5g)
  • Lower in carbs (19g vs 77g)

Common Uses

SnackingToppingsTrail mixBaking
View full Almond Butter nutrition →

Popcorn vs Almond Butter: Nutritional Analysis

Almond Butter is more calorie-dense at 614 calories per 100g compared to 387 for Popcorn, a difference of 227 calories. On the protein front, Almond Butter delivers more with 21g per 100g versus 3.5g, 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 Popcorn and Almond Butter tell different nutritional stories. Popcorn provides 77g of carbohydrates, 4.5g of fat, and 15g of fiber per 100g, while Almond Butter contains 19g carbs, 56g fat, and 10g fiber. The higher fiber content in Popcorn supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Popcorn contains 1.1g while Almond Butter has 6g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Popcorn is the lower-calorie choice at 387 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Almond Butter provides more protein (21g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Popcorn offers more fiber (15g/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, Popcorn or Almond Butter?

Almond Butter has more calories with 614 kcal per 100g, compared to Popcorn with 387 kcal. That's a difference of 227 calories per 100g serving.

Is Popcorn healthier than Almond Butter?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Popcorn is generally the healthier choice, winning in 4 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Popcorn has 387 calories, 3.5g protein, and 15g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Popcorn and Almond Butter?

Almond Butter has more protein with 21g per 100g, compared to Popcorn with 3.5g. Almond Butter provides 17.5g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Popcorn or Almond Butter?

For weight loss, Popcorn is the better choice with only 387 calories per 100g compared to 614 calories in Almond Butter. Popcorn also offers 15g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Popcorn or Almond Butter have fewer carbs?

Almond Butter has fewer carbs with 19g per 100g, compared to Popcorn with 77g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Almond Butter is the better option with 58.0g 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.