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

Bagel vs Crackers: 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?

Bagel is generally healthier

Bagel comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 4 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (257 vs 421), more protein (10g vs 6g), more fiber (2.1g vs 2g), less sodium (430mg vs 735mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Bagel

257 kcal

More Protein

Bagel

10g

More Fiber

Bagel

2.1g

Less Sugar

Crackers

1.5g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Bagel
257
Crackers
421
Proteinper 100g
Bagel
10g
Crackers
6g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Bagel
50g
Crackers
71g
Fatper 100g
Bagel
1.7g
Crackers
11g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientBagelCrackersDifference
Calories257kcal421kcal-164.0kcal
Protein10g6g+4.0g
Carbohydrates50g71g-21.0g
Fat1.7g11g-9.3g
Fiber2.1g2g+0.1g
Sugar6.6g1.5g+5.1g
Sodium430mg735mg-305.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

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

Bagel

Per 100g:257 calories
Per cup (150g):386 calories
Per serving (85g):218 calories

Crackers

Per 100g:421 calories
Per cup (150g):632 calories
Per serving (85g):358 calories

Diet Compatibility

Bagel

VeganVegetarian

Crackers

VeganVegetarian

When to Choose Bagel

  • Lower in calories (257 vs 421)
  • Higher in protein (10g vs 6g)
  • More fiber (2.1g vs 2g)
  • Lower in carbs (50g vs 71g)
  • Lower sodium (430mg vs 735mg)

Common Uses

Side dishesBreakfastMeal baseEnergy food
View full Bagel nutrition →

When to Choose Crackers

  • Less sugar (1.5g vs 6.6g)

Common Uses

Between mealsMovie nightsPartiesTravel food
View full Crackers nutrition →

Bagel vs Crackers: Nutritional Analysis

Crackers is more calorie-dense at 421 calories per 100g compared to 257 for Bagel, a difference of 164 calories. On the protein front, Bagel delivers more with 10g per 100g versus 6g, 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 Bagel and Crackers tell different nutritional stories. Bagel provides 50g of carbohydrates, 1.7g of fat, and 2.1g of fiber per 100g, while Crackers contains 71g carbs, 11g fat, and 2g fiber. The higher fiber content in Bagel supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Bagel contains 6.6g while Crackers has 1.5g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Bagel is the lower-calorie choice at 257 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Bagel provides more protein (10g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Bagel offers more fiber (2.1g/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, Bagel or Crackers?

Crackers has more calories with 421 kcal per 100g, compared to Bagel with 257 kcal. That's a difference of 164 calories per 100g serving.

Is Bagel healthier than Crackers?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Bagel is generally the healthier choice, winning in 4 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Bagel has 257 calories, 10g protein, and 2.1g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Bagel and Crackers?

Bagel has more protein with 10g per 100g, compared to Crackers with 6g. Bagel provides 4.0g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Bagel or Crackers?

For weight loss, Bagel is the better choice with only 257 calories per 100g compared to 421 calories in Crackers. Bagel also offers 2.1g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Bagel or Crackers have fewer carbs?

Bagel has fewer carbs with 50g per 100g, compared to Crackers with 71g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Bagel is the better option with 21.0g 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.