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

Skim Milk vs Beef Jerky: 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?

Skim Milk is generally healthier

Skim Milk comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (34 vs 316), less sugar (5g vs 9g), less sodium (42mg vs 2081mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Skim Milk

34 kcal

More Protein

Beef Jerky

52g

More Fiber

Beef Jerky

0.9g

Less Sugar

Skim Milk

5g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Skim Milk
34
Beef Jerky
316
Proteinper 100g
Skim Milk
3.4g
Beef Jerky
52g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Skim Milk
5g
Beef Jerky
11g
Fatper 100g
Skim Milk
0.1g
Beef Jerky
8g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientSkim MilkBeef JerkyDifference
Calories34kcal316kcal-282.0kcal
Protein3.4g52g-48.6g
Carbohydrates5g11g-6.0g
Fat0.1g8g-7.9g
Fiber0g0.9g-0.9g
Sugar5g9g-4.0g
Sodium42mg2081mg-2039.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

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

Skim Milk

Per 100g:34 calories
Per cup (150g):51 calories
Per serving (85g):29 calories

Beef Jerky

Per 100g:316 calories
Per cup (150g):474 calories
Per serving (85g):269 calories

Diet Compatibility

Skim Milk

Low-CarbLow-CalorieVegetarianLow-Sodium

Beef Jerky

High-ProteinVeganVegetarian

When to Choose Skim Milk

  • Lower in calories (34 vs 316)
  • Lower in carbs (5g vs 11g)
  • Less sugar (5g vs 9g)
  • Lower sodium (42mg vs 2081mg)

Common Uses

BreakfastSnacksCooking ingredientPost-workout
View full Skim Milk nutrition →

When to Choose Beef Jerky

  • Higher in protein (52g vs 3.4g)
  • More fiber (0.9g vs 0g)

Common Uses

Between mealsMovie nightsPartiesTravel food
View full Beef Jerky nutrition →

Skim Milk vs Beef Jerky: Nutritional Analysis

Beef Jerky is more calorie-dense at 316 calories per 100g compared to 34 for Skim Milk, a difference of 282 calories. On the protein front, Beef Jerky delivers more with 52g per 100g versus 3.4g, 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 Skim Milk and Beef Jerky tell different nutritional stories. Skim Milk provides 5g of carbohydrates, 0.1g of fat, and 0g of fiber per 100g, while Beef Jerky contains 11g carbs, 8g fat, and 0.9g fiber. The higher fiber content in Beef Jerky supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Skim Milk contains 5g while Beef Jerky has 9g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Skim Milk is the lower-calorie choice at 34 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Beef Jerky provides more protein (52g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Beef Jerky offers more fiber (0.9g/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, Skim Milk or Beef Jerky?

Beef Jerky has more calories with 316 kcal per 100g, compared to Skim Milk with 34 kcal. That's a difference of 282 calories per 100g serving.

Is Skim Milk healthier than Beef Jerky?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Skim Milk is generally the healthier choice, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Skim Milk has 34 calories, 3.4g protein, and 0g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Skim Milk and Beef Jerky?

Beef Jerky has more protein with 52g per 100g, compared to Skim Milk with 3.4g. Beef Jerky provides 48.6g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Skim Milk or Beef Jerky?

For weight loss, Skim Milk is the better choice with only 34 calories per 100g compared to 316 calories in Beef Jerky. Beef Jerky also offers 0.9g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Skim Milk or Beef Jerky have fewer carbs?

Skim Milk has fewer carbs with 5g per 100g, compared to Beef Jerky with 11g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Skim Milk is the better option with 6.0g 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.