Calories in Shrimp
Cooked shrimp contain 99 kcal and 24g of protein per 100g — one of the leanest protein sources available. Per 4 oz serving: 113 kcal with 27g protein.
Nutrition by portion size
| Portion | kcal | Carbs (g) | Protein (g) | Fat (g) | Fiber (g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 oz cooked shrimp (113g) | 113 | 0 | 27 | 1.6 | — |
| 1 cup cooked shrimp (~145g) | 144 | 0 | 35 | 2 | — |
| 100g cooked shrimp | 99 | 0 | 24 | 1.4 | — |
| 6 large shrimp (~85g) | 84 | 0 | 20 | 1.2 | — |
| 100g coconut shrimp (fried) | 290 | 25 | 16 | 14 | — |
About these numbers
Shrimp delivers an exceptional protein-per-calorie ratio: 24g protein per 100g at just 99 kcal — protein density of 24g per 100 kcal, among the highest available in whole foods. The fat content is minimal (1.4g per 100g). Plain cooked shrimp is one of the most calorie-efficient protein options for cuts.
The cholesterol content (~190mg per 100g) was historically a concern but the 2018 PURE study and 2020 Drouin-Chartier BMJ meta-analysis largely exonerated dietary cholesterol for most adults. Fried shrimp triples the calorie content (~290 kcal per 100g for coconut shrimp) — calorie efficiency depends entirely on preparation.
Use the calculators
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Frequently asked questions
- How many calories in shrimp?
- Plain cooked shrimp: 99 kcal per 100g. A 4 oz serving: 113 kcal with 27g protein. Per large shrimp: ~14 kcal. Fried/breaded shrimp jump to 250-290 kcal per 100g — major calorie difference based on preparation.
- Are shrimp good for weight loss?
- Excellent. The protein density (24g per 100 kcal) rivals chicken breast and white fish. A 6 oz portion delivers 40g of protein at only 150 kcal — about 23% of daily protein target at 8% of a 1,800 kcal target. For cut-phase eating: plain shrimp (grilled, boiled, sautéed minimally) is one of the most calorie-efficient protein choices available.
- Is shrimp high in cholesterol?
- Moderate — ~190mg per 100g, about 60% of the (now-deprecated) old 300mg daily guideline. The 2018 PURE study and 2020 Drouin-Chartier BMJ meta-analysis found no meaningful link between dietary cholesterol and CVD events in most adults. For people with familial hypercholesterolemia or known lipid hyperresponsiveness, moderating intake is sensible.
- Wild vs farmed shrimp?
- Wild shrimp generally have lower environmental contamination and better sustainability ratings. Farmed shrimp from countries with strict regulations (US, Canada) are also acceptable; imported farmed shrimp from some regions have higher antibiotic and contamination concerns. For practical eating, both are fine sources; for max safety, choose wild or US-farmed when available.
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