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

Walnuts vs Granola Bar: 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?

Walnuts is generally healthier

Walnuts comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 4 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has more protein (9g vs 4g), more fiber (6.7g vs 2g), less sugar (2.6g vs 12g), less sodium (2mg vs 178mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Granola Bar

193 kcal

More Protein

Walnuts

9g

More Fiber

Walnuts

6.7g

Less Sugar

Walnuts

2.6g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Walnuts
654
Granola Bar
193
Proteinper 100g
Walnuts
9g
Granola Bar
4g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Walnuts
14g
Granola Bar
28g
Fatper 100g
Walnuts
65g
Granola Bar
8g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientWalnutsGranola BarDifference
Calories654kcal193kcal+461.0kcal
Protein9g4g+5.0g
Carbohydrates14g28g-14.0g
Fat65g8g+57.0g
Fiber6.7g2g+4.7g
Sugar2.6g12g-9.4g
Sodium2mg178mg-176.0mg

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

Granola Bar

Per 100g:193 calories
Per cup (150g):290 calories
Per serving (85g):164 calories

Diet Compatibility

Walnuts

VeganVegetarianPaleoLow-Sodium

Granola Bar

VeganVegetarianLow-Sodium

When to Choose Walnuts

  • Higher in protein (9g vs 4g)
  • More fiber (6.7g vs 2g)
  • Lower in carbs (14g vs 28g)
  • Less sugar (2.6g vs 12g)
  • Lower sodium (2mg vs 178mg)

Common Uses

SnackingToppingsTrail mixBaking
View full Walnuts nutrition →

When to Choose Granola Bar

  • Lower in calories (193 vs 654)

Common Uses

Between mealsMovie nightsPartiesTravel food
View full Granola Bar nutrition →

Walnuts vs Granola Bar: Nutritional Analysis

Walnuts is more calorie-dense at 654 calories per 100g compared to 193 for Granola Bar, a difference of 461 calories. On the protein front, Walnuts delivers more with 9g per 100g versus 4g, 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 Granola Bar tell different nutritional stories. Walnuts provides 14g of carbohydrates, 65g of fat, and 6.7g of fiber per 100g, while Granola Bar contains 28g carbs, 8g fat, and 2g 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 Granola Bar has 12g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Granola Bar is the lower-calorie choice at 193 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Walnuts provides more protein (9g/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 Granola Bar?

Walnuts has more calories with 654 kcal per 100g, compared to Granola Bar with 193 kcal. That's a difference of 461 calories per 100g serving.

Is Walnuts healthier than Granola Bar?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Walnuts is generally the healthier choice, winning in 4 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Walnuts has 654 calories, 9g protein, and 6.7g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Walnuts and Granola Bar?

Walnuts has more protein with 9g per 100g, compared to Granola Bar with 4g. Walnuts provides 5.0g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Walnuts or Granola Bar?

For weight loss, Granola Bar is the better choice with only 193 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 Granola Bar have fewer carbs?

Walnuts has fewer carbs with 14g per 100g, compared to Granola Bar with 28g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Walnuts is the better option with 14.0g 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.