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

Sour Cream 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?

Ham is generally healthier

Ham comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (145 vs 193), more protein (21g vs 3.4g), less sugar (1.5g vs 3.9g), making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Ham

145 kcal

More Protein

Ham

21g

More Fiber

Sour Cream

0g

Less Sugar

Ham

1.5g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Sour Cream
193
Ham
145
Proteinper 100g
Sour Cream
3.4g
Ham
21g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Sour Cream
3.9g
Ham
1.5g
Fatper 100g
Sour Cream
20g
Ham
6g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientSour CreamHamDifference
Calories193kcal145kcal+48.0kcal
Protein3.4g21g-17.6g
Carbohydrates3.9g1.5g+2.4g
Fat20g6g+14.0g
Fiber0g0g0.0g
Sugar3.9g1.5g+2.4g
Sodium28mg1203mg-1175.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

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

Sour Cream

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

Ham

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

Diet Compatibility

Sour Cream

KetoLow-CarbVegetarianLow-Sodium

Ham

Low-CarbHigh-ProteinPaleo

When to Choose Sour Cream

  • More fiber (0g vs 0g)
  • Lower sodium (28mg vs 1203mg)

Common Uses

BreakfastSnacksCooking ingredientPost-workout
View full Sour Cream nutrition →

When to Choose Ham

  • Lower in calories (145 vs 193)
  • Higher in protein (21g vs 3.4g)
  • Lower in carbs (1.5g vs 3.9g)
  • Less sugar (1.5g vs 3.9g)

Common Uses

Main dishesMeal prepGrillingHigh-protein meals
View full Ham nutrition →

Sour Cream vs Ham: Nutritional Analysis

Sour Cream is more calorie-dense at 193 calories per 100g compared to 145 for Ham, a difference of 48 calories. On the protein front, Ham delivers more with 21g 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 Sour Cream and Ham tell different nutritional stories. Sour Cream provides 3.9g of carbohydrates, 20g of fat, and 0g of fiber per 100g, while Ham contains 1.5g carbs, 6g fat, and 0g fiber. Sugar content also differs: Sour Cream contains 3.9g 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: Ham is the lower-calorie choice at 145 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Ham provides more protein (21g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Sour Cream 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, Sour Cream or Ham?

Sour Cream has more calories with 193 kcal per 100g, compared to Ham with 145 kcal. That's a difference of 48 calories per 100g serving.

Is Sour Cream healthier than Ham?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Ham is generally the healthier choice, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Ham has 145 calories, 21g protein, and 0g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Sour Cream and Ham?

Ham has more protein with 21g per 100g, compared to Sour Cream with 3.4g. Ham provides 17.6g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Sour Cream or Ham?

For weight loss, Ham is the better choice with only 145 calories per 100g compared to 193 calories in Sour Cream. Ham also offers 0g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Sour Cream or Ham have fewer carbs?

Ham has fewer carbs with 1.5g per 100g, compared to Sour Cream with 3.9g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Ham is the better option with 2.4g 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.