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

Cheese vs Crackers: 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 4 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (402 vs 421), more protein (23g vs 6g), less sugar (0.7g vs 1.5g), less sodium (714mg vs 735mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Cheese

402 kcal

More Protein

Cheese

23g

More Fiber

Crackers

2g

Less Sugar

Cheese

0.7g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Cheese
402
Crackers
421
Proteinper 100g
Cheese
23g
Crackers
6g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Cheese
3.4g
Crackers
71g
Fatper 100g
Cheese
33g
Crackers
11g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientCheeseCrackersDifference
Calories402kcal421kcal-19.0kcal
Protein23g6g+17.0g
Carbohydrates3.4g71g-67.6g
Fat33g11g+22.0g
Fiber0g2g-2.0g
Sugar0.7g1.5g-0.8g
Sodium714mg735mg-21.0mg

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

Crackers

Per 100g:421 calories
Per cup (150g):632 calories
Per serving (85g):358 calories

Diet Compatibility

Cheese

KetoLow-CarbHigh-ProteinVegetarian

Crackers

VeganVegetarian

When to Choose Cheese

  • Lower in calories (402 vs 421)
  • Higher in protein (23g vs 6g)
  • Lower in carbs (3.4g vs 71g)
  • Less sugar (0.7g vs 1.5g)
  • Lower sodium (714mg vs 735mg)

Common Uses

BreakfastSnacksCooking ingredientPost-workout
View full Cheese nutrition →

When to Choose Crackers

  • More fiber (2g vs 0g)

Common Uses

Between mealsMovie nightsPartiesTravel food
View full Crackers nutrition →

Cheese vs Crackers: Nutritional Analysis

Crackers is more calorie-dense at 421 calories per 100g compared to 402 for Cheese, a difference of 19 calories. On the protein front, Cheese delivers more with 23g per 100g versus 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 Crackers tell different nutritional stories. Cheese provides 3.4g of carbohydrates, 33g of fat, and 0g of fiber per 100g, while Crackers contains 71g carbs, 11g fat, and 2g fiber. The higher fiber content in Crackers supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Cheese contains 0.7g while Crackers has 1.5g 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: Crackers offers more fiber (2g/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 Crackers?

Crackers has more calories with 421 kcal per 100g, compared to Cheese with 402 kcal. That's a difference of 19 calories per 100g serving.

Is Cheese healthier than Crackers?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Cheese is generally the healthier choice, winning in 4 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 Crackers?

Cheese has more protein with 23g per 100g, compared to Crackers with 6g. Cheese provides 17.0g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Cheese or Crackers?

For weight loss, Cheese is the better choice with only 402 calories per 100g compared to 421 calories in Crackers. Crackers also offers 2g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Cheese or Crackers have fewer carbs?

Cheese has fewer carbs with 3.4g per 100g, compared to Crackers with 71g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Cheese is the better option with 67.6g 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.