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

Sunflower Seeds vs Granola: 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?

Granola is generally healthier

Granola comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (471 vs 584), more protein (9.4g vs 9g), less sodium (5mg vs 9mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Granola

471 kcal

More Protein

Granola

9.4g

More Fiber

Sunflower Seeds

8.6g

Less Sugar

Sunflower Seeds

2.6g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Sunflower Seeds
584
Granola
471
Proteinper 100g
Sunflower Seeds
9g
Granola
9.4g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Sunflower Seeds
20g
Granola
68g
Fatper 100g
Sunflower Seeds
51g
Granola
18g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientSunflower SeedsGranolaDifference
Calories584kcal471kcal+113.0kcal
Protein9g9.4g-0.4g
Carbohydrates20g68g-48.0g
Fat51g18g+33.0g
Fiber8.6g8.6g0.0g
Sugar2.6g33g-30.4g
Sodium9mg5mg+4.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

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

Sunflower Seeds

Per 100g:584 calories
Per cup (150g):876 calories
Per serving (85g):496 calories

Granola

Per 100g:471 calories
Per cup (150g):707 calories
Per serving (85g):400 calories

Diet Compatibility

Sunflower Seeds

VeganVegetarianPaleoLow-Sodium

Granola

VeganVegetarianLow-Sodium

When to Choose Sunflower Seeds

  • More fiber (8.6g vs 8.6g)
  • Lower in carbs (20g vs 68g)
  • Less sugar (2.6g vs 33g)

Common Uses

SnackingToppingsTrail mixBaking
View full Sunflower Seeds nutrition →

When to Choose Granola

  • Lower in calories (471 vs 584)
  • Higher in protein (9.4g vs 9g)
  • Lower sodium (5mg vs 9mg)

Common Uses

Between mealsMovie nightsPartiesTravel food
View full Granola nutrition →

Sunflower Seeds vs Granola: Nutritional Analysis

Sunflower Seeds is more calorie-dense at 584 calories per 100g compared to 471 for Granola, a difference of 113 calories. On the protein front, Granola delivers more with 9.4g per 100g versus 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 Sunflower Seeds and Granola tell different nutritional stories. Sunflower Seeds provides 20g of carbohydrates, 51g of fat, and 8.6g of fiber per 100g, while Granola contains 68g carbs, 18g fat, and 8.6g fiber. Sugar content also differs: Sunflower Seeds contains 2.6g while Granola has 33g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Granola is the lower-calorie choice at 471 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Granola provides more protein (9.4g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Sunflower Seeds offers more fiber (8.6g/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, Sunflower Seeds or Granola?

Sunflower Seeds has more calories with 584 kcal per 100g, compared to Granola with 471 kcal. That's a difference of 113 calories per 100g serving.

Is Sunflower Seeds healthier than Granola?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Granola is generally the healthier choice, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Granola has 471 calories, 9.4g protein, and 8.6g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Sunflower Seeds and Granola?

Granola has more protein with 9.4g per 100g, compared to Sunflower Seeds with 9g. Granola provides 0.4g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Sunflower Seeds or Granola?

For weight loss, Granola is the better choice with only 471 calories per 100g compared to 584 calories in Sunflower Seeds. Granola also offers 8.6g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Sunflower Seeds or Granola have fewer carbs?

Sunflower Seeds has fewer carbs with 20g per 100g, compared to Granola with 68g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Sunflower Seeds is the better option with 48.0g 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.