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

Walnuts vs Bacon: 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?

Bacon is generally healthier

Bacon comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (541 vs 654), more protein (37g vs 9g), less sugar (1.2g vs 2.6g), making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Bacon

541 kcal

More Protein

Bacon

37g

More Fiber

Walnuts

6.7g

Less Sugar

Bacon

1.2g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Walnuts
654
Bacon
541
Proteinper 100g
Walnuts
9g
Bacon
37g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Walnuts
14g
Bacon
1.4g
Fatper 100g
Walnuts
65g
Bacon
42g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientWalnutsBaconDifference
Calories654kcal541kcal+113.0kcal
Protein9g37g-28.0g
Carbohydrates14g1.4g+12.6g
Fat65g42g+23.0g
Fiber6.7g0g+6.7g
Sugar2.6g1.2g+1.4g
Sodium2mg1717mg-1715.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

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

Walnuts

Per 100g:654 calories
Per cup (150g):981 calories
Per serving (85g):556 calories

Bacon

Per 100g:541 calories
Per cup (150g):812 calories
Per serving (85g):460 calories

Diet Compatibility

Walnuts

VeganVegetarianPaleoLow-Sodium

Bacon

KetoLow-CarbHigh-ProteinPaleo

When to Choose Walnuts

  • More fiber (6.7g vs 0g)
  • Lower sodium (2mg vs 1717mg)

Common Uses

SnackingToppingsTrail mixBaking
View full Walnuts nutrition →

When to Choose Bacon

  • Lower in calories (541 vs 654)
  • Higher in protein (37g vs 9g)
  • Lower in carbs (1.4g vs 14g)
  • Less sugar (1.2g vs 2.6g)

Common Uses

Main dishesMeal prepGrillingHigh-protein meals
View full Bacon nutrition →

Walnuts vs Bacon: Nutritional Analysis

Walnuts is more calorie-dense at 654 calories per 100g compared to 541 for Bacon, a difference of 113 calories. On the protein front, Bacon delivers more with 37g 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 Walnuts and Bacon tell different nutritional stories. Walnuts provides 14g of carbohydrates, 65g of fat, and 6.7g of fiber per 100g, while Bacon contains 1.4g carbs, 42g fat, and 0g fiber. The higher fiber content in Walnuts supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Walnuts contains 2.6g while Bacon has 1.2g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Bacon is the lower-calorie choice at 541 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Bacon provides more protein (37g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Walnuts offers more fiber (6.7g/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, Walnuts or Bacon?

Walnuts has more calories with 654 kcal per 100g, compared to Bacon with 541 kcal. That's a difference of 113 calories per 100g serving.

Is Walnuts healthier than Bacon?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Bacon is generally the healthier choice, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Bacon has 541 calories, 37g protein, and 0g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Walnuts and Bacon?

Bacon has more protein with 37g per 100g, compared to Walnuts with 9g. Bacon provides 28.0g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Walnuts or Bacon?

For weight loss, Bacon is the better choice with only 541 calories per 100g compared to 654 calories in Walnuts. Walnuts also offers 6.7g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Walnuts or Bacon have fewer carbs?

Bacon has fewer carbs with 1.4g per 100g, compared to Walnuts with 14g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Bacon is the better option with 12.6g 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.