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

French Fries vs Brown Rice: 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?

Brown Rice is generally healthier

Brown Rice comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (111 vs 365), less sugar (0g vs 0.3g), less sodium (5mg vs 246mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Brown Rice

111 kcal

More Protein

French Fries

3.4g

More Fiber

French Fries

4.2g

Less Sugar

Brown Rice

0g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
French Fries
365
Brown Rice
111
Proteinper 100g
French Fries
3.4g
Brown Rice
2.6g
Carbohydratesper 100g
French Fries
48g
Brown Rice
23g
Fatper 100g
French Fries
17g
Brown Rice
0.9g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientFrench FriesBrown RiceDifference
Calories365kcal111kcal+254.0kcal
Protein3.4g2.6g+0.8g
Carbohydrates48g23g+25.0g
Fat17g0.9g+16.1g
Fiber4.2g1.8g+2.4g
Sugar0.3g0g+0.3g
Sodium246mg5mg+241.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

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

French Fries

Per 100g:365 calories
Per cup (150g):548 calories
Per serving (85g):310 calories

Brown Rice

Per 100g:111 calories
Per cup (150g):167 calories
Per serving (85g):94 calories

Diet Compatibility

French Fries

No specific diet tags

Brown Rice

VeganVegetarianLow-Sodium

When to Choose French Fries

  • Higher in protein (3.4g vs 2.6g)
  • More fiber (4.2g vs 1.8g)

Common Uses

Quick mealsDining outSocial eatingConvenience
View full French Fries nutrition →

When to Choose Brown Rice

  • Lower in calories (111 vs 365)
  • Lower in carbs (23g vs 48g)
  • Less sugar (0g vs 0.3g)
  • Lower sodium (5mg vs 246mg)

Common Uses

Side dishesBreakfastMeal baseEnergy food
View full Brown Rice nutrition →

French Fries vs Brown Rice: Nutritional Analysis

French Fries is more calorie-dense at 365 calories per 100g compared to 111 for Brown Rice, a difference of 254 calories. On the protein front, French Fries delivers more with 3.4g per 100g versus 2.6g, 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 French Fries and Brown Rice tell different nutritional stories. French Fries provides 48g of carbohydrates, 17g of fat, and 4.2g of fiber per 100g, while Brown Rice contains 23g carbs, 0.9g fat, and 1.8g fiber. The higher fiber content in French Fries supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: French Fries contains 0.3g while Brown Rice has 0g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Brown Rice is the lower-calorie choice at 111 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: French Fries provides more protein (3.4g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: French Fries offers more fiber (4.2g/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, French Fries or Brown Rice?

French Fries has more calories with 365 kcal per 100g, compared to Brown Rice with 111 kcal. That's a difference of 254 calories per 100g serving.

Is French Fries healthier than Brown Rice?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Brown Rice is generally the healthier choice, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Brown Rice has 111 calories, 2.6g protein, and 1.8g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between French Fries and Brown Rice?

French Fries has more protein with 3.4g per 100g, compared to Brown Rice with 2.6g. French Fries provides 0.8g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, French Fries or Brown Rice?

For weight loss, Brown Rice is the better choice with only 111 calories per 100g compared to 365 calories in French Fries. French Fries also offers 4.2g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does French Fries or Brown Rice have fewer carbs?

Brown Rice has fewer carbs with 23g per 100g, compared to French Fries with 48g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Brown Rice is the better option with 25.0g 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.