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

Candy vs Butter: 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?

Butter is generally healthier

Butter comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has more protein (0.9g vs 0g), less sugar (0.1g vs 90g), less sodium (11mg vs 20mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Candy

400 kcal

More Protein

Butter

0.9g

More Fiber

Candy

0g

Less Sugar

Butter

0.1g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Candy
400
Butter
717
Proteinper 100g
Candy
0g
Butter
0.9g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Candy
100g
Butter
0.1g
Fatper 100g
Candy
0g
Butter
81g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientCandyButterDifference
Calories400kcal717kcal-317.0kcal
Protein0g0.9g-0.9g
Carbohydrates100g0.1g+99.9g
Fat0g81g-81.0g
Fiber0g0g0.0g
Sugar90g0.1g+89.9g
Sodium20mg11mg+9.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

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

Candy

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

Butter

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

Diet Compatibility

Candy

VeganVegetarianLow-Sodium

Butter

KetoLow-CarbVegetarianLow-Sodium

When to Choose Candy

  • Lower in calories (400 vs 717)
  • More fiber (0g vs 0g)

Common Uses

TreatsCelebrationsComfort foodSocial occasions
View full Candy nutrition →

When to Choose Butter

  • Higher in protein (0.9g vs 0g)
  • Lower in carbs (0.1g vs 100g)
  • Less sugar (0.1g vs 90g)
  • Lower sodium (11mg vs 20mg)

Common Uses

BreakfastSnacksCooking ingredientPost-workout
View full Butter nutrition →

Candy vs Butter: Nutritional Analysis

Butter is more calorie-dense at 717 calories per 100g compared to 400 for Candy, a difference of 317 calories. On the protein front, Butter delivers more with 0.9g 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 Candy and Butter tell different nutritional stories. Candy provides 100g of carbohydrates, 0g of fat, and 0g of fiber per 100g, while Butter contains 0.1g carbs, 81g fat, and 0g fiber. Sugar content also differs: Candy contains 90g while Butter has 0.1g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Candy is the lower-calorie choice at 400 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Butter provides more protein (0.9g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Candy 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, Candy or Butter?

Butter has more calories with 717 kcal per 100g, compared to Candy with 400 kcal. That's a difference of 317 calories per 100g serving.

Is Candy healthier than Butter?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Butter is generally the healthier choice, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Butter has 717 calories, 0.9g protein, and 0g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Candy and Butter?

Butter has more protein with 0.9g per 100g, compared to Candy with 0g. Butter provides 0.9g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Candy or Butter?

For weight loss, Candy is the better choice with only 400 calories per 100g compared to 717 calories in Butter. Butter also offers 0g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Candy or Butter have fewer carbs?

Butter has fewer carbs with 0.1g per 100g, compared to Candy with 100g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Butter is the better option with 99.9g 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.