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

Tuna vs Anchovies in Oil: 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?

Tuna is generally healthier

Tuna comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 2 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (132 vs 210), more protein (29g vs 29g), more fiber (0g vs 0g), less sugar (0g vs 0g), less sodium (41mg vs 1050mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Tuna

132 kcal

More Protein

Tuna

29g

More Fiber

Tuna

0g

Less Sugar

Tuna

0g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Tuna
132
Anchovies in Oil
210
Proteinper 100g
Tuna
29g
Anchovies in Oil
29g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Tuna
0g
Anchovies in Oil
0g
Fatper 100g
Tuna
1.3g
Anchovies in Oil
12g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientTunaAnchovies in OilDifference
Calories132kcal210kcal-78.0kcal
Protein29g29g0.0g
Carbohydrates0g0g0.0g
Fat1.3g12g-10.7g
Fiber0g0g0.0g
Sugar0g0g0.0g
Sodium41mg1050mg-1009.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

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

Tuna

Per 100g:132 calories
Per cup (150g):198 calories
Per serving (85g):112 calories

Anchovies in Oil

Per 100g:210 calories
Per cup (150g):315 calories
Per serving (85g):179 calories

Diet Compatibility

Tuna

Low-CarbHigh-ProteinPaleoLow-Sodium

Anchovies in Oil

KetoLow-CarbHigh-ProteinPaleo

When to Choose Tuna

  • Lower in calories (132 vs 210)
  • Higher in protein (29g vs 29g)
  • More fiber (0g vs 0g)
  • Lower in carbs (0g vs 0g)
  • Less sugar (0g vs 0g)
  • Lower sodium (41mg vs 1050mg)

Common Uses

Main dishesMeal prepGrillingHigh-protein meals
View full Tuna nutrition →

When to Choose Anchovies in Oil

    Common Uses

    Main dishesMeal prepGrillingHigh-protein meals
    View full Anchovies in Oil nutrition →

    Tuna vs Anchovies in Oil: Nutritional Analysis

    Anchovies in Oil is more calorie-dense at 210 calories per 100g compared to 132 for Tuna, a difference of 78 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 Tuna and Anchovies in Oil tell different nutritional stories. Tuna provides 0g of carbohydrates, 1.3g of fat, and 0g of fiber per 100g, while Anchovies in Oil contains 0g carbs, 12g fat, and 0g fiber.

    Key Takeaways

    • For weight management: Tuna is the lower-calorie choice at 132 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
    • For muscle building: Tuna provides more protein (29g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
    • For sustained energy: Tuna 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, Tuna or Anchovies in Oil?

    Anchovies in Oil has more calories with 210 kcal per 100g, compared to Tuna with 132 kcal. That's a difference of 78 calories per 100g serving.

    Is Tuna healthier than Anchovies in Oil?

    Based on our nutritional analysis, Tuna is generally the healthier choice, winning in 2 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Tuna has 132 calories, 29g protein, and 0g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

    What is the protein difference between Tuna and Anchovies in Oil?

    Tuna and Anchovies in Oil have the same protein content at 29g per 100g.

    Which is better for weight loss, Tuna or Anchovies in Oil?

    For weight loss, Tuna is the better choice with only 132 calories per 100g compared to 210 calories in Anchovies in Oil. Anchovies in Oil also offers 0g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

    Does Tuna or Anchovies in Oil have fewer carbs?

    Tuna and Anchovies in Oil have the same carbohydrate content at 0g 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.