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

Crackers vs Pasta: 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?

Pasta is generally healthier

Pasta comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (131 vs 421), less sugar (0.6g vs 1.5g), less sodium (3mg vs 735mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Pasta

131 kcal

More Protein

Crackers

6g

More Fiber

Crackers

2g

Less Sugar

Pasta

0.6g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Crackers
421
Pasta
131
Proteinper 100g
Crackers
6g
Pasta
5.3g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Crackers
71g
Pasta
25g
Fatper 100g
Crackers
11g
Pasta
1.1g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientCrackersPastaDifference
Calories421kcal131kcal+290.0kcal
Protein6g5.3g+0.7g
Carbohydrates71g25g+46.0g
Fat11g1.1g+9.9g
Fiber2g1.8g+0.2g
Sugar1.5g0.6g+0.9g
Sodium735mg3mg+732.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

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

Crackers

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

Pasta

Per 100g:131 calories
Per cup (150g):197 calories
Per serving (85g):111 calories

Diet Compatibility

Crackers

VeganVegetarian

Pasta

VeganVegetarianLow-Sodium

When to Choose Crackers

  • Higher in protein (6g vs 5.3g)
  • More fiber (2g vs 1.8g)

Common Uses

Between mealsMovie nightsPartiesTravel food
View full Crackers nutrition →

When to Choose Pasta

  • Lower in calories (131 vs 421)
  • Lower in carbs (25g vs 71g)
  • Less sugar (0.6g vs 1.5g)
  • Lower sodium (3mg vs 735mg)

Common Uses

Side dishesBreakfastMeal baseEnergy food
View full Pasta nutrition →

Crackers vs Pasta: Nutritional Analysis

Crackers is more calorie-dense at 421 calories per 100g compared to 131 for Pasta, a difference of 290 calories. On the protein front, Crackers delivers more with 6g per 100g versus 5.3g, 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 Crackers and Pasta tell different nutritional stories. Crackers provides 71g of carbohydrates, 11g of fat, and 2g of fiber per 100g, while Pasta contains 25g carbs, 1.1g fat, and 1.8g 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: Crackers contains 1.5g while Pasta has 0.6g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Pasta is the lower-calorie choice at 131 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Crackers provides more protein (6g/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, Crackers or Pasta?

Crackers has more calories with 421 kcal per 100g, compared to Pasta with 131 kcal. That's a difference of 290 calories per 100g serving.

Is Crackers healthier than Pasta?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Pasta is generally the healthier choice, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Pasta has 131 calories, 5.3g protein, and 1.8g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Crackers and Pasta?

Crackers has more protein with 6g per 100g, compared to Pasta with 5.3g. Crackers provides 0.7g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Crackers or Pasta?

For weight loss, Pasta is the better choice with only 131 calories per 100g compared to 421 calories in Crackers. Crackers also offers 2g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Crackers or Pasta have fewer carbs?

Pasta has fewer carbs with 25g per 100g, compared to Crackers with 71g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Pasta is the better option with 46.0g 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.