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

Bacon vs Parmesan: 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?

Parmesan is generally healthier

Parmesan comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 4 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (431 vs 541), more protein (38g vs 37g), less sugar (0.7g vs 1.2g), less sodium (1529mg vs 1717mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Parmesan

431 kcal

More Protein

Parmesan

38g

More Fiber

Bacon

0g

Less Sugar

Parmesan

0.7g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Bacon
541
Parmesan
431
Proteinper 100g
Bacon
37g
Parmesan
38g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Bacon
1.4g
Parmesan
4.1g
Fatper 100g
Bacon
42g
Parmesan
29g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientBaconParmesanDifference
Calories541kcal431kcal+110.0kcal
Protein37g38g-1.0g
Carbohydrates1.4g4.1g-2.7g
Fat42g29g+13.0g
Fiber0g0g0.0g
Sugar1.2g0.7g+0.5g
Sodium1717mg1529mg+188.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

All values above are per 100g. Here's how they compare in common serving sizes:

Bacon

Per 100g:541 calories
Per cup (150g):812 calories
Per serving (85g):460 calories

Parmesan

Per 100g:431 calories
Per cup (150g):647 calories
Per serving (85g):366 calories

Diet Compatibility

Bacon

KetoLow-CarbHigh-ProteinPaleo

Parmesan

KetoLow-CarbHigh-ProteinVegetarian

When to Choose Bacon

  • More fiber (0g vs 0g)
  • Lower in carbs (1.4g vs 4.1g)

Common Uses

Main dishesMeal prepGrillingHigh-protein meals
View full Bacon nutrition →

When to Choose Parmesan

  • Lower in calories (431 vs 541)
  • Higher in protein (38g vs 37g)
  • Less sugar (0.7g vs 1.2g)
  • Lower sodium (1529mg vs 1717mg)

Common Uses

BreakfastSnacksCooking ingredientPost-workout
View full Parmesan nutrition →

Bacon vs Parmesan: Nutritional Analysis

Bacon is more calorie-dense at 541 calories per 100g compared to 431 for Parmesan, a difference of 110 calories. On the protein front, Parmesan delivers more with 38g per 100g versus 37g, 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 Bacon and Parmesan tell different nutritional stories. Bacon provides 1.4g of carbohydrates, 42g of fat, and 0g of fiber per 100g, while Parmesan contains 4.1g carbs, 29g fat, and 0g fiber. Sugar content also differs: Bacon contains 1.2g while Parmesan has 0.7g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Parmesan is the lower-calorie choice at 431 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Parmesan provides more protein (38g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Bacon offers more fiber (0g/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, Bacon or Parmesan?

Bacon has more calories with 541 kcal per 100g, compared to Parmesan with 431 kcal. That's a difference of 110 calories per 100g serving.

Is Bacon healthier than Parmesan?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Parmesan is generally the healthier choice, winning in 4 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Parmesan has 431 calories, 38g protein, and 0g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Bacon and Parmesan?

Parmesan has more protein with 38g per 100g, compared to Bacon with 37g. Parmesan provides 1.0g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Bacon or Parmesan?

For weight loss, Parmesan is the better choice with only 431 calories per 100g compared to 541 calories in Bacon. Parmesan also offers 0g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Bacon or Parmesan have fewer carbs?

Bacon has fewer carbs with 1.4g per 100g, compared to Parmesan with 4.1g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Bacon is the better option with 2.7g 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.