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

Skim Milk vs Pasta: 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?

Pasta is generally healthier

Pasta comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 4 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has more protein (5.3g vs 3.4g), more fiber (1.8g vs 0g), less sugar (0.6g vs 5g), less sodium (3mg vs 42mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Skim Milk

34 kcal

More Protein

Pasta

5.3g

More Fiber

Pasta

1.8g

Less Sugar

Pasta

0.6g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Skim Milk
34
Pasta
131
Proteinper 100g
Skim Milk
3.4g
Pasta
5.3g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Skim Milk
5g
Pasta
25g
Fatper 100g
Skim Milk
0.1g
Pasta
1.1g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientSkim MilkPastaDifference
Calories34kcal131kcal-97.0kcal
Protein3.4g5.3g-1.9g
Carbohydrates5g25g-20.0g
Fat0.1g1.1g-1.0g
Fiber0g1.8g-1.8g
Sugar5g0.6g+4.4g
Sodium42mg3mg+39.0mg

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

Pasta

Per 100g:131 calories
Per cup (150g):197 calories
Per serving (85g):111 calories

Diet Compatibility

Skim Milk

Low-CarbLow-CalorieVegetarianLow-Sodium

Pasta

VeganVegetarianLow-Sodium

When to Choose Skim Milk

  • Lower in calories (34 vs 131)
  • Lower in carbs (5g vs 25g)

Common Uses

BreakfastSnacksCooking ingredientPost-workout
View full Skim Milk nutrition →

When to Choose Pasta

  • Higher in protein (5.3g vs 3.4g)
  • More fiber (1.8g vs 0g)
  • Less sugar (0.6g vs 5g)
  • Lower sodium (3mg vs 42mg)

Common Uses

Side dishesBreakfastMeal baseEnergy food
View full Pasta nutrition →

Skim Milk vs Pasta: Nutritional Analysis

Pasta is more calorie-dense at 131 calories per 100g compared to 34 for Skim Milk, a difference of 97 calories. On the protein front, Pasta delivers more with 5.3g 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 Pasta tell different nutritional stories. Skim Milk provides 5g of carbohydrates, 0.1g of fat, and 0g of fiber per 100g, while Pasta contains 25g carbs, 1.1g fat, and 1.8g fiber. The higher fiber content in Pasta supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Skim Milk contains 5g while Pasta has 0.6g 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: Pasta provides more protein (5.3g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Pasta offers more fiber (1.8g/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 Pasta?

Pasta has more calories with 131 kcal per 100g, compared to Skim Milk with 34 kcal. That's a difference of 97 calories per 100g serving.

Is Skim Milk healthier than Pasta?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Pasta is generally the healthier choice, winning in 4 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Pasta has 131 calories, 5.3g protein, and 1.8g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Skim Milk and Pasta?

Pasta has more protein with 5.3g per 100g, compared to Skim Milk with 3.4g. Pasta provides 1.9g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Skim Milk or Pasta?

For weight loss, Skim Milk is the better choice with only 34 calories per 100g compared to 131 calories in Pasta. Pasta also offers 1.8g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Skim Milk or Pasta have fewer carbs?

Skim Milk has fewer carbs with 5g per 100g, compared to Pasta with 25g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Skim Milk is the better option with 20.0g 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.