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

Salmon vs Cottage Cheese: 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 more protein (25g vs 11g), more fiber (0g vs 0g), less sugar (0g vs 3.3g), less sodium (75mg vs 390mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Cottage Cheese

98 kcal

More Protein

Salmon

25g

More Fiber

Salmon

0g

Less Sugar

Salmon

0g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Salmon
208
Cottage Cheese
98
Proteinper 100g
Salmon
25g
Cottage Cheese
11g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Salmon
0g
Cottage Cheese
3.7g
Fatper 100g
Salmon
13g
Cottage Cheese
5g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientSalmonCottage CheeseDifference
Calories208kcal98kcal+110.0kcal
Protein25g11g+14.0g
Carbohydrates0g3.7g-3.7g
Fat13g5g+8.0g
Fiber0g0g0.0g
Sugar0g3.3g-3.3g
Sodium75mg390mg-315.0mg

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

Cottage Cheese

Per 100g:98 calories
Per cup (150g):147 calories
Per serving (85g):83 calories

Diet Compatibility

Salmon

KetoLow-CarbHigh-ProteinPaleoLow-Sodium

Cottage Cheese

Low-CarbLow-CalorieVegetarian

When to Choose Salmon

  • Higher in protein (25g vs 11g)
  • More fiber (0g vs 0g)
  • Lower in carbs (0g vs 3.7g)
  • Less sugar (0g vs 3.3g)
  • Lower sodium (75mg vs 390mg)

Common Uses

Main dishesMeal prepGrillingHigh-protein meals
View full Salmon nutrition →

When to Choose Cottage Cheese

  • Lower in calories (98 vs 208)

Common Uses

BreakfastSnacksCooking ingredientPost-workout
View full Cottage Cheese nutrition →

Salmon vs Cottage Cheese: Nutritional Analysis

Salmon is more calorie-dense at 208 calories per 100g compared to 98 for Cottage Cheese, a difference of 110 calories. On the protein front, Salmon delivers more with 25g per 100g versus 11g, 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 Cottage Cheese tell different nutritional stories. Salmon provides 0g of carbohydrates, 13g of fat, and 0g of fiber per 100g, while Cottage Cheese contains 3.7g carbs, 5g fat, and 0g fiber. Sugar content also differs: Salmon contains 0g while Cottage Cheese has 3.3g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Cottage Cheese is the lower-calorie choice at 98 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 Cottage Cheese?

Salmon has more calories with 208 kcal per 100g, compared to Cottage Cheese with 98 kcal. That's a difference of 110 calories per 100g serving.

Is Salmon healthier than Cottage Cheese?

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 Cottage Cheese?

Salmon has more protein with 25g per 100g, compared to Cottage Cheese with 11g. Salmon provides 14.0g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Salmon or Cottage Cheese?

For weight loss, Cottage Cheese is the better choice with only 98 calories per 100g compared to 208 calories in Salmon. Cottage Cheese also offers 0g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Salmon or Cottage Cheese have fewer carbs?

Salmon has fewer carbs with 0g per 100g, compared to Cottage Cheese with 3.7g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Salmon is the better option with 3.7g 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.