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

Couscous vs Cod: 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?

Cod is generally healthier

Cod comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (82 vs 112), more protein (17g vs 3.8g), less sugar (0g vs 0.1g), making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Cod

82 kcal

More Protein

Cod

17g

More Fiber

Couscous

1.4g

Less Sugar

Cod

0g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Couscous
112
Cod
82
Proteinper 100g
Couscous
3.8g
Cod
17g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Couscous
23g
Cod
0g
Fatper 100g
Couscous
0.2g
Cod
0.7g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientCouscousCodDifference
Calories112kcal82kcal+30.0kcal
Protein3.8g17g-13.2g
Carbohydrates23g0g+23.0g
Fat0.2g0.7g-0.5g
Fiber1.4g0g+1.4g
Sugar0.1g0g+0.1g
Sodium5mg77mg-72.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

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

Couscous

Per 100g:112 calories
Per cup (150g):168 calories
Per serving (85g):95 calories

Cod

Per 100g:82 calories
Per cup (150g):123 calories
Per serving (85g):70 calories

Diet Compatibility

Couscous

VeganVegetarianLow-Sodium

Cod

Low-CarbHigh-ProteinLow-CaloriePaleoLow-Sodium

When to Choose Couscous

  • More fiber (1.4g vs 0g)
  • Lower sodium (5mg vs 77mg)

Common Uses

Side dishesBreakfastMeal baseEnergy food
View full Couscous nutrition →

When to Choose Cod

  • Lower in calories (82 vs 112)
  • Higher in protein (17g vs 3.8g)
  • Lower in carbs (0g vs 23g)
  • Less sugar (0g vs 0.1g)

Common Uses

Main dishesMeal prepGrillingHigh-protein meals
View full Cod nutrition →

Couscous vs Cod: Nutritional Analysis

Couscous is more calorie-dense at 112 calories per 100g compared to 82 for Cod, a difference of 30 calories. On the protein front, Cod delivers more with 17g per 100g versus 3.8g, 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 Couscous and Cod tell different nutritional stories. Couscous provides 23g of carbohydrates, 0.2g of fat, and 1.4g of fiber per 100g, while Cod contains 0g carbs, 0.7g fat, and 0g fiber. The higher fiber content in Couscous supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Couscous contains 0.1g while Cod has 0g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Cod is the lower-calorie choice at 82 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Cod provides more protein (17g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Couscous offers more fiber (1.4g/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, Couscous or Cod?

Couscous has more calories with 112 kcal per 100g, compared to Cod with 82 kcal. That's a difference of 30 calories per 100g serving.

Is Couscous healthier than Cod?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Cod is generally the healthier choice, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Cod has 82 calories, 17g protein, and 0g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Couscous and Cod?

Cod has more protein with 17g per 100g, compared to Couscous with 3.8g. Cod provides 13.2g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Couscous or Cod?

For weight loss, Cod is the better choice with only 82 calories per 100g compared to 112 calories in Couscous. Couscous also offers 1.4g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Couscous or Cod have fewer carbs?

Cod has fewer carbs with 0g per 100g, compared to Couscous with 23g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Cod is the better option with 23.0g 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.