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

Cheese 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 402), more fiber (1.8g vs 0g), less sugar (0g vs 0.7g), less sodium (5mg vs 714mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Brown Rice

111 kcal

More Protein

Cheese

23g

More Fiber

Brown Rice

1.8g

Less Sugar

Brown Rice

0g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Cheese
402
Brown Rice
111
Proteinper 100g
Cheese
23g
Brown Rice
2.6g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Cheese
3.4g
Brown Rice
23g
Fatper 100g
Cheese
33g
Brown Rice
0.9g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientCheeseBrown RiceDifference
Calories402kcal111kcal+291.0kcal
Protein23g2.6g+20.4g
Carbohydrates3.4g23g-19.6g
Fat33g0.9g+32.1g
Fiber0g1.8g-1.8g
Sugar0.7g0g+0.7g
Sodium714mg5mg+709.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

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

Cheese

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

Brown Rice

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

Diet Compatibility

Cheese

KetoLow-CarbHigh-ProteinVegetarian

Brown Rice

VeganVegetarianLow-Sodium

When to Choose Cheese

  • Higher in protein (23g vs 2.6g)
  • Lower in carbs (3.4g vs 23g)

Common Uses

BreakfastSnacksCooking ingredientPost-workout
View full Cheese nutrition →

When to Choose Brown Rice

  • Lower in calories (111 vs 402)
  • More fiber (1.8g vs 0g)
  • Less sugar (0g vs 0.7g)
  • Lower sodium (5mg vs 714mg)

Common Uses

Side dishesBreakfastMeal baseEnergy food
View full Brown Rice nutrition →

Cheese vs Brown Rice: Nutritional Analysis

Cheese is more calorie-dense at 402 calories per 100g compared to 111 for Brown Rice, a difference of 291 calories. On the protein front, Cheese delivers more with 23g 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 Cheese and Brown Rice tell different nutritional stories. Cheese provides 3.4g of carbohydrates, 33g of fat, and 0g 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: Cheese contains 0.7g 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: Cheese provides more protein (23g/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, Cheese or Brown Rice?

Cheese has more calories with 402 kcal per 100g, compared to Brown Rice with 111 kcal. That's a difference of 291 calories per 100g serving.

Is Cheese 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 Cheese and Brown Rice?

Cheese has more protein with 23g per 100g, compared to Brown Rice with 2.6g. Cheese provides 20.4g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Cheese or Brown Rice?

For weight loss, Brown Rice is the better choice with only 111 calories per 100g compared to 402 calories in Cheese. Brown Rice also offers 1.8g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Cheese or Brown Rice have fewer carbs?

Cheese has fewer carbs with 3.4g per 100g, compared to Brown Rice with 23g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Cheese is the better option with 19.6g 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.