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

Salmon vs Cream 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 4 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (208 vs 342), more protein (25g vs 5.9g), more fiber (0g vs 0g), less sugar (0g vs 0.4g), less sodium (75mg vs 321mg)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
Cream Cheese
342
Proteinper 100g
Salmon
25g
Cream Cheese
5.9g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Salmon
0g
Cream Cheese
4.1g
Fatper 100g
Salmon
13g
Cream Cheese
34g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientSalmonCream CheeseDifference
Calories208kcal342kcal-134.0kcal
Protein25g5.9g+19.1g
Carbohydrates0g4.1g-4.1g
Fat13g34g-21.0g
Fiber0g0g0.0g
Sugar0g0.4g-0.4g
Sodium75mg321mg-246.0mg

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

Cream Cheese

Per 100g:342 calories
Per cup (150g):513 calories
Per serving (85g):291 calories

Diet Compatibility

Salmon

KetoLow-CarbHigh-ProteinPaleoLow-Sodium

Cream Cheese

KetoLow-CarbVegetarian

When to Choose Salmon

  • Lower in calories (208 vs 342)
  • Higher in protein (25g vs 5.9g)
  • More fiber (0g vs 0g)
  • Lower in carbs (0g vs 4.1g)
  • Less sugar (0g vs 0.4g)
  • Lower sodium (75mg vs 321mg)

Common Uses

Main dishesMeal prepGrillingHigh-protein meals
View full Salmon nutrition →

When to Choose Cream Cheese

    Common Uses

    BreakfastSnacksCooking ingredientPost-workout
    View full Cream Cheese nutrition →

    Salmon vs Cream Cheese: Nutritional Analysis

    Cream Cheese is more calorie-dense at 342 calories per 100g compared to 208 for Salmon, a difference of 134 calories. On the protein front, Salmon delivers more with 25g per 100g versus 5.9g, 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 Cream Cheese tell different nutritional stories. Salmon provides 0g of carbohydrates, 13g of fat, and 0g of fiber per 100g, while Cream Cheese contains 4.1g carbs, 34g fat, and 0g fiber. Sugar content also differs: Salmon contains 0g while Cream Cheese has 0.4g 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 Cream Cheese?

    Cream Cheese has more calories with 342 kcal per 100g, compared to Salmon with 208 kcal. That's a difference of 134 calories per 100g serving.

    Is Salmon healthier than Cream Cheese?

    Based on our nutritional analysis, Salmon is generally the healthier choice, winning in 4 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 Cream Cheese?

    Salmon has more protein with 25g per 100g, compared to Cream Cheese with 5.9g. Salmon provides 19.1g more protein per 100g serving.

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

    For weight loss, Salmon is the better choice with only 208 calories per 100g compared to 342 calories in Cream Cheese. Cream Cheese also offers 0g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

    Does Salmon or Cream Cheese have fewer carbs?

    Salmon has fewer carbs with 0g per 100g, compared to Cream Cheese with 4.1g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Salmon is the better option with 4.1g 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.