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

Sardines vs Elk: 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?

Elk is generally healthier

Elk comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (126 vs 208), more protein (26g vs 25g), less sodium (60mg vs 505mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Elk

126 kcal

More Protein

Elk

26g

More Fiber

Sardines

0g

Less Sugar

Sardines

0g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Sardines
208
Elk
126
Proteinper 100g
Sardines
25g
Elk
26g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Sardines
0g
Elk
0g
Fatper 100g
Sardines
12g
Elk
3g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientSardinesElkDifference
Calories208kcal126kcal+82.0kcal
Protein25g26g-1.0g
Carbohydrates0g0g0.0g
Fat12g3g+9.0g
Fiber0g0g0.0g
Sugar0g0g0.0g
Sodium505mg60mg+445.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

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

Sardines

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

Elk

Per 100g:126 calories
Per cup (150g):189 calories
Per serving (85g):107 calories

Diet Compatibility

Sardines

KetoLow-CarbHigh-ProteinPaleo

Elk

Low-CarbHigh-ProteinPaleoLow-Sodium

When to Choose Sardines

  • More fiber (0g vs 0g)
  • Lower in carbs (0g vs 0g)
  • Less sugar (0g vs 0g)

Common Uses

Main dishesMeal prepGrillingHigh-protein meals
View full Sardines nutrition →

When to Choose Elk

  • Lower in calories (126 vs 208)
  • Higher in protein (26g vs 25g)
  • Lower sodium (60mg vs 505mg)

Common Uses

Main dishesMeal prepGrillingHigh-protein meals
View full Elk nutrition →

Sardines vs Elk: Nutritional Analysis

Sardines is more calorie-dense at 208 calories per 100g compared to 126 for Elk, a difference of 82 calories. On the protein front, Elk delivers more with 26g per 100g versus 25g, 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 Sardines and Elk tell different nutritional stories. Sardines provides 0g of carbohydrates, 12g of fat, and 0g of fiber per 100g, while Elk contains 0g carbs, 3g fat, and 0g fiber.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Elk is the lower-calorie choice at 126 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Elk provides more protein (26g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Sardines 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, Sardines or Elk?

Sardines has more calories with 208 kcal per 100g, compared to Elk with 126 kcal. That's a difference of 82 calories per 100g serving.

Is Sardines healthier than Elk?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Elk is generally the healthier choice, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Elk has 126 calories, 26g protein, and 0g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Sardines and Elk?

Elk has more protein with 26g per 100g, compared to Sardines with 25g. Elk provides 1.0g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Sardines or Elk?

For weight loss, Elk is the better choice with only 126 calories per 100g compared to 208 calories in Sardines. Elk also offers 0g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Sardines or Elk have fewer carbs?

Sardines and Elk have the same carbohydrate content at 0g per 100g.

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.