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

Shrimp vs Ham: 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?

Shrimp is generally healthier

Shrimp comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 4 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (99 vs 145), more protein (24g vs 21g), more fiber (0g vs 0g), less sugar (0g vs 1.5g), less sodium (148mg vs 1203mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Shrimp

99 kcal

More Protein

Shrimp

24g

More Fiber

Shrimp

0g

Less Sugar

Shrimp

0g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Shrimp
99
Ham
145
Proteinper 100g
Shrimp
24g
Ham
21g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Shrimp
0.2g
Ham
1.5g
Fatper 100g
Shrimp
0.3g
Ham
6g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientShrimpHamDifference
Calories99kcal145kcal-46.0kcal
Protein24g21g+3.0g
Carbohydrates0.2g1.5g-1.3g
Fat0.3g6g-5.7g
Fiber0g0g0.0g
Sugar0g1.5g-1.5g
Sodium148mg1203mg-1055.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

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

Shrimp

Per 100g:99 calories
Per cup (150g):149 calories
Per serving (85g):84 calories

Ham

Per 100g:145 calories
Per cup (150g):218 calories
Per serving (85g):123 calories

Diet Compatibility

Shrimp

Low-CarbHigh-ProteinLow-CaloriePaleoLow-Sodium

Ham

Low-CarbHigh-ProteinPaleo

When to Choose Shrimp

  • Lower in calories (99 vs 145)
  • Higher in protein (24g vs 21g)
  • More fiber (0g vs 0g)
  • Lower in carbs (0.2g vs 1.5g)
  • Less sugar (0g vs 1.5g)
  • Lower sodium (148mg vs 1203mg)

Common Uses

Main dishesMeal prepGrillingHigh-protein meals
View full Shrimp nutrition →

When to Choose Ham

    Common Uses

    Main dishesMeal prepGrillingHigh-protein meals
    View full Ham nutrition →

    Shrimp vs Ham: Nutritional Analysis

    Ham is more calorie-dense at 145 calories per 100g compared to 99 for Shrimp, a difference of 46 calories. On the protein front, Shrimp delivers more with 24g per 100g versus 21g, 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 Shrimp and Ham tell different nutritional stories. Shrimp provides 0.2g of carbohydrates, 0.3g of fat, and 0g of fiber per 100g, while Ham contains 1.5g carbs, 6g fat, and 0g fiber. Sugar content also differs: Shrimp contains 0g while Ham has 1.5g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

    Key Takeaways

    • For weight management: Shrimp is the lower-calorie choice at 99 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
    • For muscle building: Shrimp provides more protein (24g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
    • For sustained energy: Shrimp 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, Shrimp or Ham?

    Ham has more calories with 145 kcal per 100g, compared to Shrimp with 99 kcal. That's a difference of 46 calories per 100g serving.

    Is Shrimp healthier than Ham?

    Based on our nutritional analysis, Shrimp is generally the healthier choice, winning in 4 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Shrimp has 99 calories, 24g protein, and 0g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

    What is the protein difference between Shrimp and Ham?

    Shrimp has more protein with 24g per 100g, compared to Ham with 21g. Shrimp provides 3.0g more protein per 100g serving.

    Which is better for weight loss, Shrimp or Ham?

    For weight loss, Shrimp is the better choice with only 99 calories per 100g compared to 145 calories in Ham. Ham also offers 0g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

    Does Shrimp or Ham have fewer carbs?

    Shrimp has fewer carbs with 0.2g per 100g, compared to Ham with 1.5g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Shrimp is the better option with 1.3g 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.