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

Beer vs Candy: 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?

Beer is generally healthier

Beer comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 4 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (43 vs 400), more protein (0.5g vs 0g), more fiber (0g vs 0g), less sugar (0g vs 90g), less sodium (11mg vs 20mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Beer

43 kcal

More Protein

Beer

0.5g

More Fiber

Beer

0g

Less Sugar

Beer

0g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Beer
43
Candy
400
Proteinper 100g
Beer
0.5g
Candy
0g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Beer
3.6g
Candy
100g
Fatper 100g
Beer
0g
Candy
0g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientBeerCandyDifference
Calories43kcal400kcal-357.0kcal
Protein0.5g0g+0.5g
Carbohydrates3.6g100g-96.4g
Fat0g0g0.0g
Fiber0g0g0.0g
Sugar0g90g-90.0g
Sodium11mg20mg-9.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

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

Beer

Per 100g:43 calories
Per cup (150g):65 calories
Per serving (85g):37 calories

Candy

Per 100g:400 calories
Per cup (150g):600 calories
Per serving (85g):340 calories

Diet Compatibility

Beer

Low-CarbLow-CalorieVeganVegetarianLow-Sodium

Candy

VeganVegetarianLow-Sodium

When to Choose Beer

  • Lower in calories (43 vs 400)
  • Higher in protein (0.5g vs 0g)
  • More fiber (0g vs 0g)
  • Lower in carbs (3.6g vs 100g)
  • Less sugar (0g vs 90g)
  • Lower sodium (11mg vs 20mg)

Common Uses

HydrationMorning ritualSocial occasionsEnergy boost
View full Beer nutrition →

When to Choose Candy

    Common Uses

    TreatsCelebrationsComfort foodSocial occasions
    View full Candy nutrition →

    Beer vs Candy: Nutritional Analysis

    Candy is more calorie-dense at 400 calories per 100g compared to 43 for Beer, a difference of 357 calories. On the protein front, Beer delivers more with 0.5g per 100g versus 0g, 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 Beer and Candy tell different nutritional stories. Beer provides 3.6g of carbohydrates, 0g of fat, and 0g of fiber per 100g, while Candy contains 100g carbs, 0g fat, and 0g fiber. Sugar content also differs: Beer contains 0g while Candy has 90g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

    Key Takeaways

    • For weight management: Beer is the lower-calorie choice at 43 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
    • For muscle building: Beer provides more protein (0.5g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
    • For sustained energy: Beer 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, Beer or Candy?

    Candy has more calories with 400 kcal per 100g, compared to Beer with 43 kcal. That's a difference of 357 calories per 100g serving.

    Is Beer healthier than Candy?

    Based on our nutritional analysis, Beer is generally the healthier choice, winning in 4 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Beer has 43 calories, 0.5g protein, and 0g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

    What is the protein difference between Beer and Candy?

    Beer has more protein with 0.5g per 100g, compared to Candy with 0g. Beer provides 0.5g more protein per 100g serving.

    Which is better for weight loss, Beer or Candy?

    For weight loss, Beer is the better choice with only 43 calories per 100g compared to 400 calories in Candy. Candy also offers 0g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

    Does Beer or Candy have fewer carbs?

    Beer has fewer carbs with 3.6g per 100g, compared to Candy with 100g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Beer is the better option with 96.4g 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.