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

Butter vs Broccoli: 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?

Broccoli is generally healthier

Broccoli comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (34 vs 717), more protein (2.8g vs 0.9g), more fiber (2.4g vs 0g), making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Broccoli

34 kcal

More Protein

Broccoli

2.8g

More Fiber

Broccoli

2.4g

Less Sugar

Butter

0.1g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Butter
717
Broccoli
34
Proteinper 100g
Butter
0.9g
Broccoli
2.8g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Butter
0.1g
Broccoli
7g
Fatper 100g
Butter
81g
Broccoli
0.4g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientButterBroccoliDifference
Calories717kcal34kcal+683.0kcal
Protein0.9g2.8g-1.9g
Carbohydrates0.1g7g-6.9g
Fat81g0.4g+80.6g
Fiber0g2.4g-2.4g
Sugar0.1g1.4g-1.3g
Sodium11mg64mg-53.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

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

Butter

Per 100g:717 calories
Per cup (150g):1076 calories
Per serving (85g):609 calories

Broccoli

Per 100g:34 calories
Per cup (150g):51 calories
Per serving (85g):29 calories

Diet Compatibility

Butter

KetoLow-CarbVegetarianLow-Sodium

Broccoli

Low-CarbLow-CalorieVeganVegetarianPaleoLow-Sodium

When to Choose Butter

  • Lower in carbs (0.1g vs 7g)
  • Less sugar (0.1g vs 1.4g)
  • Lower sodium (11mg vs 64mg)

Common Uses

BreakfastSnacksCooking ingredientPost-workout
View full Butter nutrition →

When to Choose Broccoli

  • Lower in calories (34 vs 717)
  • Higher in protein (2.8g vs 0.9g)
  • More fiber (2.4g vs 0g)

Common Uses

SaladsStir-friesRoasted sidesSoups
View full Broccoli nutrition →

Butter vs Broccoli: Nutritional Analysis

Butter is more calorie-dense at 717 calories per 100g compared to 34 for Broccoli, a difference of 683 calories. On the protein front, Broccoli delivers more with 2.8g per 100g versus 0.9g, 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 Butter and Broccoli tell different nutritional stories. Butter provides 0.1g of carbohydrates, 81g of fat, and 0g of fiber per 100g, while Broccoli contains 7g carbs, 0.4g fat, and 2.4g fiber. The higher fiber content in Broccoli supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Butter contains 0.1g while Broccoli has 1.4g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Broccoli is the lower-calorie choice at 34 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Broccoli provides more protein (2.8g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Broccoli offers more fiber (2.4g/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, Butter or Broccoli?

Butter has more calories with 717 kcal per 100g, compared to Broccoli with 34 kcal. That's a difference of 683 calories per 100g serving.

Is Butter healthier than Broccoli?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Broccoli is generally the healthier choice, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Broccoli has 34 calories, 2.8g protein, and 2.4g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Butter and Broccoli?

Broccoli has more protein with 2.8g per 100g, compared to Butter with 0.9g. Broccoli provides 1.9g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Butter or Broccoli?

For weight loss, Broccoli is the better choice with only 34 calories per 100g compared to 717 calories in Butter. Broccoli also offers 2.4g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Butter or Broccoli have fewer carbs?

Butter has fewer carbs with 0.1g per 100g, compared to Broccoli with 7g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Butter is the better option with 6.9g 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.