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

Black Beans vs Cottage Cheese: 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?

Black Beans is generally healthier

Black Beans comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has more fiber (8.7g vs 0g), less sugar (0.3g vs 3.3g), less sodium (1mg vs 390mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Cottage Cheese

98 kcal

More Protein

Cottage Cheese

11g

More Fiber

Black Beans

8.7g

Less Sugar

Black Beans

0.3g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Black Beans
132
Cottage Cheese
98
Proteinper 100g
Black Beans
8.9g
Cottage Cheese
11g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Black Beans
24g
Cottage Cheese
3.7g
Fatper 100g
Black Beans
0.5g
Cottage Cheese
5g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientBlack BeansCottage CheeseDifference
Calories132kcal98kcal+34.0kcal
Protein8.9g11g-2.1g
Carbohydrates24g3.7g+20.3g
Fat0.5g5g-4.5g
Fiber8.7g0g+8.7g
Sugar0.3g3.3g-3.0g
Sodium1mg390mg-389.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

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

Black Beans

Per 100g:132 calories
Per cup (150g):198 calories
Per serving (85g):112 calories

Cottage Cheese

Per 100g:98 calories
Per cup (150g):147 calories
Per serving (85g):83 calories

Diet Compatibility

Black Beans

VeganVegetarianPaleoLow-Sodium

Cottage Cheese

Low-CarbLow-CalorieVegetarian

When to Choose Black Beans

  • More fiber (8.7g vs 0g)
  • Less sugar (0.3g vs 3.3g)
  • Lower sodium (1mg vs 390mg)

Common Uses

SaladsStir-friesRoasted sidesSoups
View full Black Beans nutrition →

When to Choose Cottage Cheese

  • Lower in calories (98 vs 132)
  • Higher in protein (11g vs 8.9g)
  • Lower in carbs (3.7g vs 24g)

Common Uses

BreakfastSnacksCooking ingredientPost-workout
View full Cottage Cheese nutrition →

Black Beans vs Cottage Cheese: Nutritional Analysis

Black Beans is more calorie-dense at 132 calories per 100g compared to 98 for Cottage Cheese, a difference of 34 calories. On the protein front, Cottage Cheese delivers more with 11g per 100g versus 8.9g, 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 Black Beans and Cottage Cheese tell different nutritional stories. Black Beans provides 24g of carbohydrates, 0.5g of fat, and 8.7g of fiber per 100g, while Cottage Cheese contains 3.7g carbs, 5g fat, and 0g fiber. The higher fiber content in Black Beans supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Black Beans contains 0.3g while Cottage Cheese has 3.3g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Cottage Cheese is the lower-calorie choice at 98 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Cottage Cheese provides more protein (11g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Black Beans offers more fiber (8.7g/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, Black Beans or Cottage Cheese?

Black Beans has more calories with 132 kcal per 100g, compared to Cottage Cheese with 98 kcal. That's a difference of 34 calories per 100g serving.

Is Black Beans healthier than Cottage Cheese?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Black Beans is generally the healthier choice, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Black Beans has 132 calories, 8.9g protein, and 8.7g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Black Beans and Cottage Cheese?

Cottage Cheese has more protein with 11g per 100g, compared to Black Beans with 8.9g. Cottage Cheese provides 2.1g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Black Beans or Cottage Cheese?

For weight loss, Cottage Cheese is the better choice with only 98 calories per 100g compared to 132 calories in Black Beans. Black Beans also offers 8.7g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Black Beans or Cottage Cheese have fewer carbs?

Cottage Cheese has fewer carbs with 3.7g per 100g, compared to Black Beans with 24g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Cottage Cheese is the better option with 20.3g 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.