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

Bacon vs Pasta: 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?

Pasta is generally healthier

Pasta comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 4 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (131 vs 541), more fiber (1.8g vs 0g), less sugar (0.6g vs 1.2g), less sodium (3mg vs 1717mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Pasta

131 kcal

More Protein

Bacon

37g

More Fiber

Pasta

1.8g

Less Sugar

Pasta

0.6g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Bacon
541
Pasta
131
Proteinper 100g
Bacon
37g
Pasta
5.3g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Bacon
1.4g
Pasta
25g
Fatper 100g
Bacon
42g
Pasta
1.1g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientBaconPastaDifference
Calories541kcal131kcal+410.0kcal
Protein37g5.3g+31.7g
Carbohydrates1.4g25g-23.6g
Fat42g1.1g+40.9g
Fiber0g1.8g-1.8g
Sugar1.2g0.6g+0.6g
Sodium1717mg3mg+1714.0mg

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

Pasta

Per 100g:131 calories
Per cup (150g):197 calories
Per serving (85g):111 calories

Diet Compatibility

Bacon

KetoLow-CarbHigh-ProteinPaleo

Pasta

VeganVegetarianLow-Sodium

When to Choose Bacon

  • Higher in protein (37g vs 5.3g)
  • Lower in carbs (1.4g vs 25g)

Common Uses

Main dishesMeal prepGrillingHigh-protein meals
View full Bacon nutrition →

When to Choose Pasta

  • Lower in calories (131 vs 541)
  • More fiber (1.8g vs 0g)
  • Less sugar (0.6g vs 1.2g)
  • Lower sodium (3mg vs 1717mg)

Common Uses

Side dishesBreakfastMeal baseEnergy food
View full Pasta nutrition →

Bacon vs Pasta: Nutritional Analysis

Bacon is more calorie-dense at 541 calories per 100g compared to 131 for Pasta, a difference of 410 calories. On the protein front, Bacon delivers more with 37g per 100g versus 5.3g, 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 Pasta tell different nutritional stories. Bacon provides 1.4g of carbohydrates, 42g of fat, and 0g of fiber per 100g, while Pasta contains 25g carbs, 1.1g fat, and 1.8g fiber. The higher fiber content in Pasta supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Bacon contains 1.2g while Pasta has 0.6g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Pasta is the lower-calorie choice at 131 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Bacon provides more protein (37g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Pasta offers more fiber (1.8g/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 Pasta?

Bacon has more calories with 541 kcal per 100g, compared to Pasta with 131 kcal. That's a difference of 410 calories per 100g serving.

Is Bacon healthier than Pasta?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Pasta is generally the healthier choice, winning in 4 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Pasta has 131 calories, 5.3g protein, and 1.8g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Bacon and Pasta?

Bacon has more protein with 37g per 100g, compared to Pasta with 5.3g. Bacon provides 31.7g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Bacon or Pasta?

For weight loss, Pasta is the better choice with only 131 calories per 100g compared to 541 calories in Bacon. Pasta also offers 1.8g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Bacon or Pasta have fewer carbs?

Bacon has fewer carbs with 1.4g per 100g, compared to Pasta with 25g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Bacon is the better option with 23.6g 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.