Salsa vs Ketchup: Calories and Nutrition Compared (2026)
Salsa and ketchup differ significantly in calories and nutritional content.
Salsa has 38 calories and ketchup has 117 calories per 100 g. Both contain 1.1 g of protein, making them equal in that regard.
Salsa and ketchup are popular condiments with distinct flavors and nutritional profiles. This comparison highlights their differences in calories, macronutrients, and sodium content.
What Is the Difference Between Salsa and Ketchup?
Salsa is a sauce made primarily from tomatoes, peppers, and various spices, often used in Mexican cuisine. It can vary in texture from smooth to chunky. Ketchup is a sweet and tangy sauce made from tomatoes, vinegar, and sugar, commonly used as a condiment for various foods. It is known for its smooth consistency.
Salsa vs Ketchup: Nutrition Side by Side
The following table provides a side-by-side comparison of salsa and ketchup's nutritional values.
| Nutrient (per 100 g) | Salsa | Ketchup |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 38 kcal | 117 kcal |
| Protein | 1.1 g | 1.1 g |
| Carbs | 6.4 g | 26.8 g |
| Sugar | 3.5 g | 22.8 g |
| Fat | 0.9 g | 0.6 g |
| Fiber | 1.9 g | 0.3 g |
| Sodium | 906 mg | 949 mg |
Which Is Better, Salsa or Ketchup?
For weight loss: Salsa is lower in calories with 38 calories compared to ketchup's 117 calories per 100 g.
For muscle and protein: Both salsa and ketchup contain 1.1 g of protein per 100 g, making them equal in protein content.
For low-carb or low-sugar: Salsa has 6.4 g of carbs and 3.5 g of sugar, while ketchup has 26.8 g of carbs and 22.8 g of sugar per 100 g.
How to Track Salsa and Ketchup Accurately
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How We Compiled These Numbers
The numbers provided are rounded reference values for educational use and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a professional for dietary guidance. Values are per 100 g from USDA FoodData Central.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Which has more protein?
Both salsa and ketchup have 1.1 g of protein per 100 g, making them equal in protein content.
Which has fewer calories?
Salsa has 38 calories per 100 g, while ketchup has 117 calories per 100 g, making salsa lower in calories.
How much sugar is in ketchup?
Ketchup contains 22.8 g of sugar per 100 g.
What is the sodium content of salsa?
Salsa has 906 mg of sodium per 100 g.
What are the carb contents of salsa and ketchup?
Salsa has 6.4 g of carbs and ketchup has 26.8 g of carbs per 100 g.
How much fat is in salsa?
Salsa contains 0.9 g of fat per 100 g.
Key Takeaways
- Salsa has 38 calories per 100 g.
- Ketchup has 117 calories per 100 g.
- Both contain 1.1 g of protein per 100 g.
- Salsa has 6.4 g of carbs per 100 g.
- Ketchup has 26.8 g of carbs per 100 g.
- Salsa has 3.5 g of sugar per 100 g.
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