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

Walnuts vs Hamburger: 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 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has more fiber (6.7g vs 0g), less sugar (2.6g vs 3g), less sodium (2mg vs 404mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Hamburger

215 kcal

More Protein

Hamburger

17g

More Fiber

Walnuts

6.7g

Less Sugar

Walnuts

2.6g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Walnuts
654
Hamburger
215
Proteinper 100g
Walnuts
9g
Hamburger
17g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Walnuts
14g
Hamburger
16g
Fatper 100g
Walnuts
65g
Hamburger
9g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientWalnutsHamburgerDifference
Calories654kcal215kcal+439.0kcal
Protein9g17g-8.0g
Carbohydrates14g16g-2.0g
Fat65g9g+56.0g
Fiber6.7g0g+6.7g
Sugar2.6g3g-0.4g
Sodium2mg404mg-402.0mg

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

Hamburger

Per 100g:215 calories
Per cup (150g):323 calories
Per serving (85g):183 calories

Diet Compatibility

Walnuts

VeganVegetarianPaleoLow-Sodium

Hamburger

High-Protein

When to Choose Walnuts

  • More fiber (6.7g vs 0g)
  • Lower in carbs (14g vs 16g)
  • Less sugar (2.6g vs 3g)
  • Lower sodium (2mg vs 404mg)

Common Uses

SnackingToppingsTrail mixBaking
View full Walnuts nutrition →

When to Choose Hamburger

  • Lower in calories (215 vs 654)
  • Higher in protein (17g vs 9g)

Common Uses

Quick mealsDining outSocial eatingConvenience
View full Hamburger nutrition →

Walnuts vs Hamburger: Nutritional Analysis

Walnuts is more calorie-dense at 654 calories per 100g compared to 215 for Hamburger, a difference of 439 calories. On the protein front, Hamburger delivers more with 17g 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 Hamburger tell different nutritional stories. Walnuts provides 14g of carbohydrates, 65g of fat, and 6.7g of fiber per 100g, while Hamburger contains 16g carbs, 9g 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 Hamburger has 3g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Hamburger is the lower-calorie choice at 215 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Hamburger provides more protein (17g/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 Hamburger?

Walnuts has more calories with 654 kcal per 100g, compared to Hamburger with 215 kcal. That's a difference of 439 calories per 100g serving.

Is Walnuts healthier than Hamburger?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Walnuts is generally the healthier choice, winning in 3 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 Hamburger?

Hamburger has more protein with 17g per 100g, compared to Walnuts with 9g. Hamburger provides 8.0g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Walnuts or Hamburger?

For weight loss, Hamburger is the better choice with only 215 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 Hamburger have fewer carbs?

Walnuts has fewer carbs with 14g per 100g, compared to Hamburger with 16g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Walnuts is the better option with 2.0g 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.