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

Potato Chips vs Sunflower Seeds: 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?

Sunflower Seeds is generally healthier

Sunflower Seeds comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has more protein (9g vs 6g), more fiber (8.6g vs 5g), less sodium (9mg vs 661mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Potato Chips

536 kcal

More Protein

Sunflower Seeds

9g

More Fiber

Sunflower Seeds

8.6g

Less Sugar

Potato Chips

1.2g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Potato Chips
536
Sunflower Seeds
584
Proteinper 100g
Potato Chips
6g
Sunflower Seeds
9g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Potato Chips
53g
Sunflower Seeds
20g
Fatper 100g
Potato Chips
33g
Sunflower Seeds
51g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientPotato ChipsSunflower SeedsDifference
Calories536kcal584kcal-48.0kcal
Protein6g9g-3.0g
Carbohydrates53g20g+33.0g
Fat33g51g-18.0g
Fiber5g8.6g-3.6g
Sugar1.2g2.6g-1.4g
Sodium661mg9mg+652.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

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

Potato Chips

Per 100g:536 calories
Per cup (150g):804 calories
Per serving (85g):456 calories

Sunflower Seeds

Per 100g:584 calories
Per cup (150g):876 calories
Per serving (85g):496 calories

Diet Compatibility

Potato Chips

VeganVegetarian

Sunflower Seeds

VeganVegetarianPaleoLow-Sodium

When to Choose Potato Chips

  • Lower in calories (536 vs 584)
  • Less sugar (1.2g vs 2.6g)

Common Uses

Between mealsMovie nightsPartiesTravel food
View full Potato Chips nutrition →

When to Choose Sunflower Seeds

  • Higher in protein (9g vs 6g)
  • More fiber (8.6g vs 5g)
  • Lower in carbs (20g vs 53g)
  • Lower sodium (9mg vs 661mg)

Common Uses

SnackingToppingsTrail mixBaking
View full Sunflower Seeds nutrition →

Potato Chips vs Sunflower Seeds: Nutritional Analysis

Sunflower Seeds is more calorie-dense at 584 calories per 100g compared to 536 for Potato Chips, a difference of 48 calories. On the protein front, Sunflower Seeds delivers more with 9g per 100g versus 6g, 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 Potato Chips and Sunflower Seeds tell different nutritional stories. Potato Chips provides 53g of carbohydrates, 33g of fat, and 5g of fiber per 100g, while Sunflower Seeds contains 20g carbs, 51g fat, and 8.6g fiber. The higher fiber content in Sunflower Seeds supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Potato Chips contains 1.2g while Sunflower Seeds has 2.6g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Potato Chips is the lower-calorie choice at 536 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Sunflower Seeds provides more protein (9g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Sunflower Seeds offers more fiber (8.6g/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, Potato Chips or Sunflower Seeds?

Sunflower Seeds has more calories with 584 kcal per 100g, compared to Potato Chips with 536 kcal. That's a difference of 48 calories per 100g serving.

Is Potato Chips healthier than Sunflower Seeds?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Sunflower Seeds is generally the healthier choice, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Sunflower Seeds has 584 calories, 9g protein, and 8.6g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Potato Chips and Sunflower Seeds?

Sunflower Seeds has more protein with 9g per 100g, compared to Potato Chips with 6g. Sunflower Seeds provides 3.0g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Potato Chips or Sunflower Seeds?

For weight loss, Potato Chips is the better choice with only 536 calories per 100g compared to 584 calories in Sunflower Seeds. Sunflower Seeds also offers 8.6g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Potato Chips or Sunflower Seeds have fewer carbs?

Sunflower Seeds has fewer carbs with 20g per 100g, compared to Potato Chips with 53g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Sunflower Seeds is the better option with 33.0g 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.