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

Salmon vs 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?

Salmon is generally healthier

Salmon comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (208 vs 717), more protein (25g vs 0.9g), more fiber (0g vs 0g), less sugar (0g vs 0.1g), making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Salmon

208 kcal

More Protein

Salmon

25g

More Fiber

Salmon

0g

Less Sugar

Salmon

0g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Salmon
208
Butter
717
Proteinper 100g
Salmon
25g
Butter
0.9g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Salmon
0g
Butter
0.1g
Fatper 100g
Salmon
13g
Butter
81g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientSalmonButterDifference
Calories208kcal717kcal-509.0kcal
Protein25g0.9g+24.1g
Carbohydrates0g0.1g-0.1g
Fat13g81g-68.0g
Fiber0g0g0.0g
Sugar0g0.1g-0.1g
Sodium75mg11mg+64.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

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

Salmon

Per 100g:208 calories
Per cup (150g):312 calories
Per serving (85g):177 calories

Butter

Per 100g:717 calories
Per cup (150g):1076 calories
Per serving (85g):609 calories

Diet Compatibility

Salmon

KetoLow-CarbHigh-ProteinPaleoLow-Sodium

Butter

KetoLow-CarbVegetarianLow-Sodium

When to Choose Salmon

  • Lower in calories (208 vs 717)
  • Higher in protein (25g vs 0.9g)
  • More fiber (0g vs 0g)
  • Lower in carbs (0g vs 0.1g)
  • Less sugar (0g vs 0.1g)

Common Uses

Main dishesMeal prepGrillingHigh-protein meals
View full Salmon nutrition →

When to Choose Butter

  • Lower sodium (11mg vs 75mg)

Common Uses

BreakfastSnacksCooking ingredientPost-workout
View full Butter nutrition →

Salmon vs Butter: Nutritional Analysis

Butter is more calorie-dense at 717 calories per 100g compared to 208 for Salmon, a difference of 509 calories. On the protein front, Salmon delivers more with 25g per 100g versus 0.9g, 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 Salmon and Butter tell different nutritional stories. Salmon provides 0g of carbohydrates, 13g of fat, and 0g of fiber per 100g, while Butter contains 0.1g carbs, 81g fat, and 0g fiber. Sugar content also differs: Salmon contains 0g while Butter has 0.1g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Salmon is the lower-calorie choice at 208 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Salmon provides more protein (25g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Salmon 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, Salmon or Butter?

Butter has more calories with 717 kcal per 100g, compared to Salmon with 208 kcal. That's a difference of 509 calories per 100g serving.

Is Salmon healthier than Butter?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Salmon is generally the healthier choice, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Salmon has 208 calories, 25g protein, and 0g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Salmon and Butter?

Salmon has more protein with 25g per 100g, compared to Butter with 0.9g. Salmon provides 24.1g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Salmon or Butter?

For weight loss, Salmon is the better choice with only 208 calories per 100g compared to 717 calories in Butter. Butter also offers 0g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Salmon or Butter have fewer carbs?

Salmon has fewer carbs with 0g per 100g, compared to Butter with 0.1g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Salmon is the better option with 0.1g 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.