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

Energy Drink vs Ground Beef: 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?

Ground Beef is generally healthier

Ground Beef comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has more protein (26g vs 0.3g), less sugar (0g vs 10.6g), less sodium (75mg vs 80mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Energy Drink

45 kcal

More Protein

Ground Beef

26g

More Fiber

Energy Drink

0g

Less Sugar

Ground Beef

0g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Energy Drink
45
Ground Beef
250
Proteinper 100g
Energy Drink
0.3g
Ground Beef
26g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Energy Drink
11g
Ground Beef
0g
Fatper 100g
Energy Drink
0g
Ground Beef
17g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientEnergy DrinkGround BeefDifference
Calories45kcal250kcal-205.0kcal
Protein0.3g26g-25.7g
Carbohydrates11g0g+11.0g
Fat0g17g-17.0g
Fiber0g0g0.0g
Sugar10.6g0g+10.6g
Sodium80mg75mg+5.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

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

Energy Drink

Per 100g:45 calories
Per cup (150g):68 calories
Per serving (85g):38 calories

Ground Beef

Per 100g:250 calories
Per cup (150g):375 calories
Per serving (85g):213 calories

Diet Compatibility

Energy Drink

Low-CalorieVeganVegetarianLow-Sodium

Ground Beef

KetoLow-CarbHigh-ProteinPaleoLow-Sodium

When to Choose Energy Drink

  • Lower in calories (45 vs 250)
  • More fiber (0g vs 0g)

Common Uses

HydrationMorning ritualSocial occasionsEnergy boost
View full Energy Drink nutrition →

When to Choose Ground Beef

  • Higher in protein (26g vs 0.3g)
  • Lower in carbs (0g vs 11g)
  • Less sugar (0g vs 10.6g)
  • Lower sodium (75mg vs 80mg)

Common Uses

Main dishesMeal prepGrillingHigh-protein meals
View full Ground Beef nutrition →

Energy Drink vs Ground Beef: Nutritional Analysis

Ground Beef is more calorie-dense at 250 calories per 100g compared to 45 for Energy Drink, a difference of 205 calories. On the protein front, Ground Beef delivers more with 26g per 100g versus 0.3g, 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 Energy Drink and Ground Beef tell different nutritional stories. Energy Drink provides 11g of carbohydrates, 0g of fat, and 0g of fiber per 100g, while Ground Beef contains 0g carbs, 17g fat, and 0g fiber. Sugar content also differs: Energy Drink contains 10.6g while Ground Beef has 0g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Energy Drink is the lower-calorie choice at 45 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Ground Beef provides more protein (26g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Energy Drink offers more fiber (0g/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, Energy Drink or Ground Beef?

Ground Beef has more calories with 250 kcal per 100g, compared to Energy Drink with 45 kcal. That's a difference of 205 calories per 100g serving.

Is Energy Drink healthier than Ground Beef?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Ground Beef is generally the healthier choice, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Ground Beef has 250 calories, 26g protein, and 0g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Energy Drink and Ground Beef?

Ground Beef has more protein with 26g per 100g, compared to Energy Drink with 0.3g. Ground Beef provides 25.7g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Energy Drink or Ground Beef?

For weight loss, Energy Drink is the better choice with only 45 calories per 100g compared to 250 calories in Ground Beef. Ground Beef also offers 0g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Energy Drink or Ground Beef have fewer carbs?

Ground Beef has fewer carbs with 0g per 100g, compared to Energy Drink with 11g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Ground Beef is the better option with 11.0g 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.