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

Pork Chop vs Ham: 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?

Pork Chop is generally healthier

Pork Chop comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has more protein (27g vs 21g), more fiber (0g vs 0g), less sugar (0g vs 1.5g), less sodium (75mg vs 1203mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Ham

145 kcal

More Protein

Pork Chop

27g

More Fiber

Pork Chop

0g

Less Sugar

Pork Chop

0g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Pork Chop
242
Ham
145
Proteinper 100g
Pork Chop
27g
Ham
21g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Pork Chop
0g
Ham
1.5g
Fatper 100g
Pork Chop
14g
Ham
6g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientPork ChopHamDifference
Calories242kcal145kcal+97.0kcal
Protein27g21g+6.0g
Carbohydrates0g1.5g-1.5g
Fat14g6g+8.0g
Fiber0g0g0.0g
Sugar0g1.5g-1.5g
Sodium75mg1203mg-1128.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

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

Pork Chop

Per 100g:242 calories
Per cup (150g):363 calories
Per serving (85g):206 calories

Ham

Per 100g:145 calories
Per cup (150g):218 calories
Per serving (85g):123 calories

Diet Compatibility

Pork Chop

KetoLow-CarbHigh-ProteinPaleoLow-Sodium

Ham

Low-CarbHigh-ProteinPaleo

When to Choose Pork Chop

  • Higher in protein (27g vs 21g)
  • More fiber (0g vs 0g)
  • Lower in carbs (0g vs 1.5g)
  • Less sugar (0g vs 1.5g)
  • Lower sodium (75mg vs 1203mg)

Common Uses

Main dishesMeal prepGrillingHigh-protein meals
View full Pork Chop nutrition →

When to Choose Ham

  • Lower in calories (145 vs 242)

Common Uses

Main dishesMeal prepGrillingHigh-protein meals
View full Ham nutrition →

Pork Chop vs Ham: Nutritional Analysis

Pork Chop is more calorie-dense at 242 calories per 100g compared to 145 for Ham, a difference of 97 calories. On the protein front, Pork Chop delivers more with 27g per 100g versus 21g, 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 Pork Chop and Ham tell different nutritional stories. Pork Chop provides 0g of carbohydrates, 14g of fat, and 0g of fiber per 100g, while Ham contains 1.5g carbs, 6g fat, and 0g fiber. Sugar content also differs: Pork Chop contains 0g while Ham has 1.5g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Ham is the lower-calorie choice at 145 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Pork Chop provides more protein (27g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Pork Chop offers more fiber (0g/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, Pork Chop or Ham?

Pork Chop has more calories with 242 kcal per 100g, compared to Ham with 145 kcal. That's a difference of 97 calories per 100g serving.

Is Pork Chop healthier than Ham?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Pork Chop is generally the healthier choice, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Pork Chop has 242 calories, 27g protein, and 0g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Pork Chop and Ham?

Pork Chop has more protein with 27g per 100g, compared to Ham with 21g. Pork Chop provides 6.0g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Pork Chop or Ham?

For weight loss, Ham is the better choice with only 145 calories per 100g compared to 242 calories in Pork Chop. Ham also offers 0g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Pork Chop or Ham have fewer carbs?

Pork Chop has fewer carbs with 0g per 100g, compared to Ham with 1.5g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Pork Chop is the better option with 1.5g 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.