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

Skim Milk vs Sour Cream: 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?

Sour Cream is generally healthier

Sour Cream comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 2 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has less sugar (3.9g vs 5g), less sodium (28mg vs 42mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Skim Milk

34 kcal

More Protein

Skim Milk

3.4g

More Fiber

Skim Milk

0g

Less Sugar

Sour Cream

3.9g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Skim Milk
34
Sour Cream
193
Proteinper 100g
Skim Milk
3.4g
Sour Cream
3.4g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Skim Milk
5g
Sour Cream
3.9g
Fatper 100g
Skim Milk
0.1g
Sour Cream
20g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientSkim MilkSour CreamDifference
Calories34kcal193kcal-159.0kcal
Protein3.4g3.4g0.0g
Carbohydrates5g3.9g+1.1g
Fat0.1g20g-19.9g
Fiber0g0g0.0g
Sugar5g3.9g+1.1g
Sodium42mg28mg+14.0mg

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

Sour Cream

Per 100g:193 calories
Per cup (150g):290 calories
Per serving (85g):164 calories

Diet Compatibility

Skim Milk

Low-CarbLow-CalorieVegetarianLow-Sodium

Sour Cream

KetoLow-CarbVegetarianLow-Sodium

When to Choose Skim Milk

  • Lower in calories (34 vs 193)
  • Higher in protein (3.4g vs 3.4g)
  • More fiber (0g vs 0g)

Common Uses

BreakfastSnacksCooking ingredientPost-workout
View full Skim Milk nutrition →

When to Choose Sour Cream

  • Lower in carbs (3.9g vs 5g)
  • Less sugar (3.9g vs 5g)
  • Lower sodium (28mg vs 42mg)

Common Uses

BreakfastSnacksCooking ingredientPost-workout
View full Sour Cream nutrition →

Skim Milk vs Sour Cream: Nutritional Analysis

Sour Cream is more calorie-dense at 193 calories per 100g compared to 34 for Skim Milk, a difference of 159 calories. 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 Sour Cream tell different nutritional stories. Skim Milk provides 5g of carbohydrates, 0.1g of fat, and 0g of fiber per 100g, while Sour Cream contains 3.9g carbs, 20g fat, and 0g fiber. Sugar content also differs: Skim Milk contains 5g while Sour Cream has 3.9g 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: Skim Milk provides more protein (3.4g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Skim Milk 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, Skim Milk or Sour Cream?

Sour Cream has more calories with 193 kcal per 100g, compared to Skim Milk with 34 kcal. That's a difference of 159 calories per 100g serving.

Is Skim Milk healthier than Sour Cream?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Sour Cream is generally the healthier choice, winning in 2 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Sour Cream has 193 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 Sour Cream?

Skim Milk and Sour Cream have the same protein content at 3.4g per 100g.

Which is better for weight loss, Skim Milk or Sour Cream?

For weight loss, Skim Milk is the better choice with only 34 calories per 100g compared to 193 calories in Sour Cream. Sour Cream also offers 0g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Skim Milk or Sour Cream have fewer carbs?

Sour Cream has fewer carbs with 3.9g per 100g, compared to Skim Milk with 5g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Sour Cream is the better option with 1.1g 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.