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

Big Mac vs Brown Rice: 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?

Brown Rice is generally healthier

Brown Rice comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 4 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (111 vs 257), more fiber (1.8g vs 1.2g), less sugar (0g vs 5.2g), less sodium (5mg vs 480mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Brown Rice

111 kcal

More Protein

Big Mac

13g

More Fiber

Brown Rice

1.8g

Less Sugar

Brown Rice

0g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Big Mac
257
Brown Rice
111
Proteinper 100g
Big Mac
13g
Brown Rice
2.6g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Big Mac
25g
Brown Rice
23g
Fatper 100g
Big Mac
13g
Brown Rice
0.9g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientBig MacBrown RiceDifference
Calories257kcal111kcal+146.0kcal
Protein13g2.6g+10.4g
Carbohydrates25g23g+2.0g
Fat13g0.9g+12.1g
Fiber1.2g1.8g-0.6g
Sugar5.2g0g+5.2g
Sodium480mg5mg+475.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

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

Big Mac

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

Brown Rice

Per 100g:111 calories
Per cup (150g):167 calories
Per serving (85g):94 calories

Diet Compatibility

Big Mac

No specific diet tags

Brown Rice

VeganVegetarianLow-Sodium

When to Choose Big Mac

  • Higher in protein (13g vs 2.6g)

Common Uses

Quick mealsDining outSocial eatingConvenience
View full Big Mac nutrition →

When to Choose Brown Rice

  • Lower in calories (111 vs 257)
  • More fiber (1.8g vs 1.2g)
  • Lower in carbs (23g vs 25g)
  • Less sugar (0g vs 5.2g)
  • Lower sodium (5mg vs 480mg)

Common Uses

Side dishesBreakfastMeal baseEnergy food
View full Brown Rice nutrition →

Big Mac vs Brown Rice: Nutritional Analysis

Big Mac is more calorie-dense at 257 calories per 100g compared to 111 for Brown Rice, a difference of 146 calories. On the protein front, Big Mac delivers more with 13g per 100g versus 2.6g, 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 Big Mac and Brown Rice tell different nutritional stories. Big Mac provides 25g of carbohydrates, 13g of fat, and 1.2g of fiber per 100g, while Brown Rice contains 23g carbs, 0.9g fat, and 1.8g fiber. The higher fiber content in Brown Rice supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Big Mac contains 5.2g while Brown Rice has 0g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Brown Rice is the lower-calorie choice at 111 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Big Mac provides more protein (13g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Brown Rice 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, Big Mac or Brown Rice?

Big Mac has more calories with 257 kcal per 100g, compared to Brown Rice with 111 kcal. That's a difference of 146 calories per 100g serving.

Is Big Mac healthier than Brown Rice?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Brown Rice is generally the healthier choice, winning in 4 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Brown Rice has 111 calories, 2.6g protein, and 1.8g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Big Mac and Brown Rice?

Big Mac has more protein with 13g per 100g, compared to Brown Rice with 2.6g. Big Mac provides 10.4g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Big Mac or Brown Rice?

For weight loss, Brown Rice is the better choice with only 111 calories per 100g compared to 257 calories in Big Mac. Brown Rice also offers 1.8g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Big Mac or Brown Rice have fewer carbs?

Brown Rice has fewer carbs with 23g per 100g, compared to Big Mac with 25g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Brown Rice is the better option with 2.0g 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.