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

Spinach vs Tomato: 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?

Spinach is generally healthier

Spinach comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has more protein (2.7g vs 0.9g), more fiber (2.2g vs 1.2g), less sugar (0.4g vs 2.6g), making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Tomato

18 kcal

More Protein

Spinach

2.7g

More Fiber

Spinach

2.2g

Less Sugar

Spinach

0.4g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Spinach
23
Tomato
18
Proteinper 100g
Spinach
2.7g
Tomato
0.9g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Spinach
4g
Tomato
4g
Fatper 100g
Spinach
0.4g
Tomato
0.2g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientSpinachTomatoDifference
Calories23kcal18kcal+5.0kcal
Protein2.7g0.9g+1.8g
Carbohydrates4g4g0.0g
Fat0.4g0.2g+0.2g
Fiber2.2g1.2g+1.0g
Sugar0.4g2.6g-2.2g
Sodium79mg5mg+74.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

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

Spinach

Per 100g:23 calories
Per cup (150g):35 calories
Per serving (85g):20 calories

Tomato

Per 100g:18 calories
Per cup (150g):27 calories
Per serving (85g):15 calories

Diet Compatibility

Spinach

Low-CarbLow-CalorieVeganVegetarianPaleoLow-Sodium

Tomato

Low-CarbLow-CalorieVeganVegetarianPaleoLow-Sodium

When to Choose Spinach

  • Higher in protein (2.7g vs 0.9g)
  • More fiber (2.2g vs 1.2g)
  • Lower in carbs (4g vs 4g)
  • Less sugar (0.4g vs 2.6g)

Common Uses

SaladsStir-friesRoasted sidesSoups
View full Spinach nutrition →

When to Choose Tomato

  • Lower in calories (18 vs 23)
  • Lower sodium (5mg vs 79mg)

Common Uses

SaladsStir-friesRoasted sidesSoups
View full Tomato nutrition →

Spinach vs Tomato: Nutritional Analysis

Spinach is more calorie-dense at 23 calories per 100g compared to 18 for Tomato, a difference of 5 calories. On the protein front, Spinach delivers more with 2.7g per 100g versus 0.9g, 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 Spinach and Tomato tell different nutritional stories. Spinach provides 4g of carbohydrates, 0.4g of fat, and 2.2g of fiber per 100g, while Tomato contains 4g carbs, 0.2g fat, and 1.2g fiber. The higher fiber content in Spinach supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Spinach contains 0.4g while Tomato has 2.6g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Tomato is the lower-calorie choice at 18 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Spinach provides more protein (2.7g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Spinach offers more fiber (2.2g/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, Spinach or Tomato?

Spinach has more calories with 23 kcal per 100g, compared to Tomato with 18 kcal. That's a difference of 5 calories per 100g serving.

Is Spinach healthier than Tomato?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Spinach is generally the healthier choice, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Spinach has 23 calories, 2.7g protein, and 2.2g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Spinach and Tomato?

Spinach has more protein with 2.7g per 100g, compared to Tomato with 0.9g. Spinach provides 1.8g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Spinach or Tomato?

For weight loss, Tomato is the better choice with only 18 calories per 100g compared to 23 calories in Spinach. Spinach also offers 2.2g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Spinach or Tomato have fewer carbs?

Spinach and Tomato have the same carbohydrate content at 4g per 100g.

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.