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

Beer vs Coffee: 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?

Coffee is generally healthier

Coffee comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 2 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (1 vs 43), less sodium (5mg vs 11mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Coffee

1 kcal

More Protein

Beer

0.5g

More Fiber

Beer

0g

Less Sugar

Beer

0g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Beer
43
Coffee
1
Proteinper 100g
Beer
0.5g
Coffee
0.3g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Beer
3.6g
Coffee
0.2g
Fatper 100g
Beer
0g
Coffee
0g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientBeerCoffeeDifference
Calories43kcal1kcal+42.0kcal
Protein0.5g0.3g+0.2g
Carbohydrates3.6g0.2g+3.4g
Fat0g0g0.0g
Fiber0g0g0.0g
Sugar0g0g0.0g
Sodium11mg5mg+6.0mg

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

Coffee

Per 100g:1 calories
Per cup (150g):2 calories
Per serving (85g):1 calories

Diet Compatibility

Beer

Low-CarbLow-CalorieVeganVegetarianLow-Sodium

Coffee

Low-CarbLow-CalorieVeganVegetarianLow-Sodium

When to Choose Beer

  • Higher in protein (0.5g vs 0.3g)
  • More fiber (0g vs 0g)
  • Less sugar (0g vs 0g)

Common Uses

HydrationMorning ritualSocial occasionsEnergy boost
View full Beer nutrition →

When to Choose Coffee

  • Lower in calories (1 vs 43)
  • Lower in carbs (0.2g vs 3.6g)
  • Lower sodium (5mg vs 11mg)

Common Uses

HydrationMorning ritualSocial occasionsEnergy boost
View full Coffee nutrition →

Beer vs Coffee: Nutritional Analysis

Beer is more calorie-dense at 43 calories per 100g compared to 1 for Coffee, a difference of 42 calories. On the protein front, Beer delivers more with 0.5g per 100g versus 0.3g, 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 Beer and Coffee tell different nutritional stories. Beer provides 3.6g of carbohydrates, 0g of fat, and 0g of fiber per 100g, while Coffee contains 0.2g carbs, 0g fat, and 0g fiber.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Coffee is the lower-calorie choice at 1 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 Coffee?

Beer has more calories with 43 kcal per 100g, compared to Coffee with 1 kcal. That's a difference of 42 calories per 100g serving.

Is Beer healthier than Coffee?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Coffee is generally the healthier choice, winning in 2 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Coffee has 1 calories, 0.3g protein, and 0g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Beer and Coffee?

Beer has more protein with 0.5g per 100g, compared to Coffee with 0.3g. Beer provides 0.2g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Beer or Coffee?

For weight loss, Coffee is the better choice with only 1 calories per 100g compared to 43 calories in Beer. Coffee also offers 0g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Beer or Coffee have fewer carbs?

Coffee has fewer carbs with 0.2g per 100g, compared to Beer with 3.6g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Coffee is the better option with 3.4g 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.