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

Soybean vs Spirulina: 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?

Soybean is generally healthier

Soybean comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (95 vs 290), less sugar (0.7g vs 2g), less sodium (1mg vs 1048mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Soybean

95 kcal

More Protein

Spirulina

57g

More Fiber

Spirulina

3.6g

Less Sugar

Soybean

0.7g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Soybean
95
Spirulina
290
Proteinper 100g
Soybean
11g
Spirulina
57g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Soybean
12g
Spirulina
24g
Fatper 100g
Soybean
5g
Spirulina
7g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientSoybeanSpirulinaDifference
Calories95kcal290kcal-195.0kcal
Protein11g57g-46.0g
Carbohydrates12g24g-12.0g
Fat5g7g-2.0g
Fiber2.5g3.6g-1.1g
Sugar0.7g2g-1.3g
Sodium1mg1048mg-1047.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

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

Soybean

Per 100g:95 calories
Per cup (150g):143 calories
Per serving (85g):81 calories

Spirulina

Per 100g:290 calories
Per cup (150g):435 calories
Per serving (85g):247 calories

Diet Compatibility

Soybean

Low-CalorieVeganVegetarianPaleoLow-Sodium

Spirulina

High-ProteinVeganVegetarianPaleo

When to Choose Soybean

  • Lower in calories (95 vs 290)
  • Lower in carbs (12g vs 24g)
  • Less sugar (0.7g vs 2g)
  • Lower sodium (1mg vs 1048mg)

Common Uses

SaladsStir-friesRoasted sidesSoups
View full Soybean nutrition →

When to Choose Spirulina

  • Higher in protein (57g vs 11g)
  • More fiber (3.6g vs 2.5g)

Common Uses

SaladsStir-friesRoasted sidesSoups
View full Spirulina nutrition →

Soybean vs Spirulina: Nutritional Analysis

Spirulina is more calorie-dense at 290 calories per 100g compared to 95 for Soybean, a difference of 195 calories. On the protein front, Spirulina delivers more with 57g per 100g versus 11g, 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 Soybean and Spirulina tell different nutritional stories. Soybean provides 12g of carbohydrates, 5g of fat, and 2.5g of fiber per 100g, while Spirulina contains 24g carbs, 7g fat, and 3.6g fiber. The higher fiber content in Spirulina supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Soybean contains 0.7g while Spirulina has 2g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Soybean is the lower-calorie choice at 95 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Spirulina provides more protein (57g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Spirulina offers more fiber (3.6g/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, Soybean or Spirulina?

Spirulina has more calories with 290 kcal per 100g, compared to Soybean with 95 kcal. That's a difference of 195 calories per 100g serving.

Is Soybean healthier than Spirulina?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Soybean is generally the healthier choice, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Soybean has 95 calories, 11g protein, and 2.5g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Soybean and Spirulina?

Spirulina has more protein with 57g per 100g, compared to Soybean with 11g. Spirulina provides 46.0g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Soybean or Spirulina?

For weight loss, Soybean is the better choice with only 95 calories per 100g compared to 290 calories in Spirulina. Spirulina also offers 3.6g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Soybean or Spirulina have fewer carbs?

Soybean has fewer carbs with 12g per 100g, compared to Spirulina with 24g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Soybean is the better option with 12.0g 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.