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

Candy vs 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?

Both foods have similar nutritional profiles

Both foods have similar nutritional profiles with each winning in different categories. Your choice should depend on your specific dietary goals and preferences. Candy has 400 calories while Cheese has 402 calories per 100g.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Candy

400 kcal

More Protein

Cheese

23g

More Fiber

Candy

0g

Less Sugar

Cheese

0.7g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Candy
400
Cheese
402
Proteinper 100g
Candy
0g
Cheese
23g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Candy
100g
Cheese
3.4g
Fatper 100g
Candy
0g
Cheese
33g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientCandyCheeseDifference
Calories400kcal402kcal-2.0kcal
Protein0g23g-23.0g
Carbohydrates100g3.4g+96.6g
Fat0g33g-33.0g
Fiber0g0g0.0g
Sugar90g0.7g+89.3g
Sodium20mg714mg-694.0mg

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

Cheese

Per 100g:402 calories
Per cup (150g):603 calories
Per serving (85g):342 calories

Diet Compatibility

Candy

VeganVegetarianLow-Sodium

Cheese

KetoLow-CarbHigh-ProteinVegetarian

When to Choose Candy

  • Lower in calories (400 vs 402)
  • More fiber (0g vs 0g)
  • Lower sodium (20mg vs 714mg)

Common Uses

TreatsCelebrationsComfort foodSocial occasions
View full Candy nutrition →

When to Choose Cheese

  • Higher in protein (23g vs 0g)
  • Lower in carbs (3.4g vs 100g)
  • Less sugar (0.7g vs 90g)

Common Uses

BreakfastSnacksCooking ingredientPost-workout
View full Cheese nutrition →

Candy vs Cheese: Nutritional Analysis

Cheese is more calorie-dense at 402 calories per 100g compared to 400 for Candy, a difference of 2 calories. On the protein front, Cheese delivers more with 23g 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 Cheese tell different nutritional stories. Candy provides 100g of carbohydrates, 0g of fat, and 0g of fiber per 100g, while Cheese contains 3.4g carbs, 33g fat, and 0g fiber. Sugar content also differs: Candy contains 90g while Cheese has 0.7g 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: Cheese provides more protein (23g/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 Cheese?

Cheese has more calories with 402 kcal per 100g, compared to Candy with 400 kcal. That's a difference of 2 calories per 100g serving.

Is Candy healthier than Cheese?

Candy and Cheese have similar nutritional profiles, with each food winning in different categories. The healthier choice depends on your specific dietary goals and nutritional needs.

What is the protein difference between Candy and Cheese?

Cheese has more protein with 23g per 100g, compared to Candy with 0g. Cheese provides 23.0g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Candy or Cheese?

For weight loss, Candy is the better choice with only 400 calories per 100g compared to 402 calories in Cheese. Cheese also offers 0g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Candy or Cheese have fewer carbs?

Cheese has fewer carbs with 3.4g per 100g, compared to Candy with 100g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Cheese is the better option with 96.6g 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.