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Tuna vs Shrimp: Nutritional Showdown - A Macro Breakdown

Noah Aug 16, 2026 2026-08-16 04:58:21

When it comes to incorporating seafood into your diet, two popular choices stand out: tuna and shrimp. Both are delicious and nutritious, but they differ significantly in terms of macronutrients, micro-nutrients, and texture. This article aims to provide a comprehensive comparison between tuna and shrimp macros, helping you make informed decisions about your seafood consumption.

30 grams of protein cut/ bulk #protein #highprotein
30 grams of protein cut/ bulk #protein #highprotein

Let's dive right in and explore the nutritional profiles of these two seafood superstars.

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Tuna Macros

Tuna, known primarily for its lean protein content, is a popular choice among health-conscious individuals. It's a low-fat, high-protein powerhouse that provides a wide array of nutrients.

the different types of fish are shown in this chart, which includes salmon, halibut, ahi tuna and shrimp
the different types of fish are shown in this chart, which includes salmon, halibut, ahi tuna and shrimp

The macronutrient profile of tuna (per 100g of raw yellowfin tuna) is as follows:

  • Protein: 29g
  • Total Fat: 0.7g
  • Carbohydrates: 0g
salmon and tuna are the main ingredients for this meal, which includes calories and calories
salmon and tuna are the main ingredients for this meal, which includes calories and calories

Protein in Tuna

Tuna's primary draw is its high-quality protein. It's a complete protein, providing all nine essential amino acids, making it an excellent choice for supporting muscle growth and repair.

For instance, a 100g serving of raw yellowfin tuna provides 56% of the daily value (DV) for protein, making it a fantastic lean protein source.

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Fats in Tuna

Tuna is low in fat, with the majority being healthy, unsaturated fats. It's particularly low in saturated fats and contains no trans fats or cholesterol, making it a heart-healthy choice.

While the fat content is low, it does contain omega-3 fatty acids, crucial for heart health, brain function, and reducing inflammation.

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Wellness Center, Health

Shrimp Macros

Shrimp, on the other hand, is a versatile crustacean known for its unique flavor and snap when cooked. It's also low in calories and offers a range of vitamins and minerals.

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The macronutrient profile of shrimp (per 100g of raw, shelled shrimp) is as follows:

  • Protein: 24g
  • Total Fat: 0.6g
  • Carbohydrates: 0.6g

Protein in Shrimp

Shrimp is also a good source of protein, offering 48% of the DV in a 100g serving. It's also a complete protein, but with slightly less protein content compared to tuna.

However, shrimp's protein content is still impressive, making it an excellent choice for those looking to increase their protein intake.

Fats in Shrimp

Like tuna, shrimp is low in total fat, with the majority being polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats. It's also low in saturated fats and doesn't contain trans fats.

While the fat content in shrimp is low, it provides some omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, contributing to a healthy diet.

Beyond Macros: Nutrients and Calories

Neither tuna nor shrimp can be considered a good source of carbohydrates, as both have near-zero carb content.

In terms of calories, tuna is the clear winner, with 100g of raw yellowfin tuna containing 92 calories, compared to 100g of raw, shelled shrimp's 99 calories. However, the nutritional profiles extend beyond macros, making both worth considering.

Vitamins and Minerals in Tuna

Tuna is rich in various vitamins and minerals. It's an excellent source of B vitamins, including B3 (niacin), B6 (pyridoxine), and B12 (cobalamin). It also provides significant amounts of potassium, selenium, and phosphorus.

Moreover, tuna contains omega-3 fatty acids, which play a crucial role in heart health, brain function, and reducing inflammation.

Vitamins and Minerals in Shrimp

Shrimp, too, provides an array of vitamins and minerals. It's particularly high in selenium, providing over 50% of the DV in a 100g serving. It also offers significant amounts of phosphorus, vitamin B12, and vitamin E.

Shrimp's antioxidants may also help protect against chronic diseases, and it's one of the few foods that provide significant amounts of both vitamin D and astaxanthin, a powerful antioxidant.

Incorporating both tuna and shrimp into your diet can provide a wide range of health benefits, from supporting muscle growth to bolstering your immune system and promoting heart health.

Remember, variety is key in a balanced diet. While both tuna and shrimp offer unique nutritional profiles and benefits, including a range of seafood in your diet can help ensure you're getting a broad spectrum of nutrients.

So, why not experiment with both tuna and shrimp in your meals? From sushi to pasta, salads to tacos, the possibilities are endless. Happy cooking!