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

Crackers vs Quinoa: 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?

Quinoa is generally healthier

Quinoa comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (120 vs 421), more fiber (2.8g vs 2g), less sodium (7mg vs 735mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Quinoa

120 kcal

More Protein

Crackers

6g

More Fiber

Quinoa

2.8g

Less Sugar

Crackers

1.5g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Crackers
421
Quinoa
120
Proteinper 100g
Crackers
6g
Quinoa
4.4g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Crackers
71g
Quinoa
21g
Fatper 100g
Crackers
11g
Quinoa
1.9g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientCrackersQuinoaDifference
Calories421kcal120kcal+301.0kcal
Protein6g4.4g+1.6g
Carbohydrates71g21g+50.0g
Fat11g1.9g+9.1g
Fiber2g2.8g-0.8g
Sugar1.5g1.6g-0.1g
Sodium735mg7mg+728.0mg

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

Quinoa

Per 100g:120 calories
Per cup (150g):180 calories
Per serving (85g):102 calories

Diet Compatibility

Crackers

VeganVegetarian

Quinoa

VeganVegetarianLow-Sodium

When to Choose Crackers

  • Higher in protein (6g vs 4.4g)
  • Less sugar (1.5g vs 1.6g)

Common Uses

Between mealsMovie nightsPartiesTravel food
View full Crackers nutrition →

When to Choose Quinoa

  • Lower in calories (120 vs 421)
  • More fiber (2.8g vs 2g)
  • Lower in carbs (21g vs 71g)
  • Lower sodium (7mg vs 735mg)

Common Uses

Side dishesBreakfastMeal baseEnergy food
View full Quinoa nutrition →

Crackers vs Quinoa: Nutritional Analysis

Crackers is more calorie-dense at 421 calories per 100g compared to 120 for Quinoa, a difference of 301 calories. On the protein front, Crackers delivers more with 6g per 100g versus 4.4g, 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 Quinoa tell different nutritional stories. Crackers provides 71g of carbohydrates, 11g of fat, and 2g of fiber per 100g, while Quinoa contains 21g carbs, 1.9g fat, and 2.8g fiber. The higher fiber content in Quinoa supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Crackers contains 1.5g while Quinoa has 1.6g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Quinoa is the lower-calorie choice at 120 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: Quinoa offers more fiber (2.8g/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, Crackers or Quinoa?

Crackers has more calories with 421 kcal per 100g, compared to Quinoa with 120 kcal. That's a difference of 301 calories per 100g serving.

Is Crackers healthier than Quinoa?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Quinoa is generally the healthier choice, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Quinoa has 120 calories, 4.4g protein, and 2.8g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Crackers and Quinoa?

Crackers has more protein with 6g per 100g, compared to Quinoa with 4.4g. Crackers provides 1.6g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Crackers or Quinoa?

For weight loss, Quinoa is the better choice with only 120 calories per 100g compared to 421 calories in Crackers. Quinoa also offers 2.8g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Crackers or Quinoa have fewer carbs?

Quinoa has fewer carbs with 21g per 100g, compared to Crackers with 71g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Quinoa is the better option with 50.0g 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.