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

Cheese vs Cashews: 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?

Cheese is generally healthier

Cheese comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (402 vs 553), more protein (23g vs 18g), less sugar (0.7g vs 5.9g), making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Cheese

402 kcal

More Protein

Cheese

23g

More Fiber

Cashews

3.3g

Less Sugar

Cheese

0.7g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Cheese
402
Cashews
553
Proteinper 100g
Cheese
23g
Cashews
18g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Cheese
3.4g
Cashews
30g
Fatper 100g
Cheese
33g
Cashews
44g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientCheeseCashewsDifference
Calories402kcal553kcal-151.0kcal
Protein23g18g+5.0g
Carbohydrates3.4g30g-26.6g
Fat33g44g-11.0g
Fiber0g3.3g-3.3g
Sugar0.7g5.9g-5.2g
Sodium714mg10mg+704.0mg

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

Cashews

Per 100g:553 calories
Per cup (150g):830 calories
Per serving (85g):470 calories

Diet Compatibility

Cheese

KetoLow-CarbHigh-ProteinVegetarian

Cashews

High-ProteinVeganVegetarianPaleoLow-Sodium

When to Choose Cheese

  • Lower in calories (402 vs 553)
  • Higher in protein (23g vs 18g)
  • Lower in carbs (3.4g vs 30g)
  • Less sugar (0.7g vs 5.9g)

Common Uses

BreakfastSnacksCooking ingredientPost-workout
View full Cheese nutrition →

When to Choose Cashews

  • More fiber (3.3g vs 0g)
  • Lower sodium (10mg vs 714mg)

Common Uses

SnackingToppingsTrail mixBaking
View full Cashews nutrition →

Cheese vs Cashews: Nutritional Analysis

Cashews is more calorie-dense at 553 calories per 100g compared to 402 for Cheese, a difference of 151 calories. On the protein front, Cheese delivers more with 23g per 100g versus 18g, 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 Cashews tell different nutritional stories. Cheese provides 3.4g of carbohydrates, 33g of fat, and 0g of fiber per 100g, while Cashews contains 30g carbs, 44g fat, and 3.3g fiber. The higher fiber content in Cashews supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Cheese contains 0.7g while Cashews has 5.9g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Cheese is the lower-calorie choice at 402 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: Cashews offers more fiber (3.3g/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 Cashews?

Cashews has more calories with 553 kcal per 100g, compared to Cheese with 402 kcal. That's a difference of 151 calories per 100g serving.

Is Cheese healthier than Cashews?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Cheese is generally the healthier choice, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Cheese has 402 calories, 23g protein, and 0g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Cheese and Cashews?

Cheese has more protein with 23g per 100g, compared to Cashews with 18g. Cheese provides 5.0g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Cheese or Cashews?

For weight loss, Cheese is the better choice with only 402 calories per 100g compared to 553 calories in Cashews. Cashews also offers 3.3g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Cheese or Cashews have fewer carbs?

Cheese has fewer carbs with 3.4g per 100g, compared to Cashews with 30g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Cheese is the better option with 26.6g 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.