Granola vs Breakfast Cereal: 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?
Granola is generally healthier
Granola comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has more protein (9.4g vs 7g), more fiber (8.6g vs 6g), less sodium (5mg vs 760mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.
Quick Summary
Fewer Calories
Breakfast Cereal
379 kcal
More Protein
Granola
9.4g
More Fiber
Granola
8.6g
Less Sugar
Breakfast Cereal
24g
Visual Comparison
Side-by-Side Nutrition Table
| Nutrient | Granola | Breakfast Cereal | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Calories | 471kcal | 379kcal✓ | +92.0kcal |
| Protein | 9.4g✓ | 7g | +2.4g |
| Carbohydrates | 68g✓ | 84g | -16.0g |
| Fat | 18g | 1.9g✓ | +16.1g |
| Fiber | 8.6g✓ | 6g | +2.6g |
| Sugar | 33g | 24g✓ | +9.0g |
| Sodium | 5mg✓ | 760mg | -755.0mg |
Serving Size Comparison
All values above are per 100g. Here's how they compare in common serving sizes:
Granola
Breakfast Cereal
Diet Compatibility
Granola
Breakfast Cereal
When to Choose Granola
- ✓Higher in protein (9.4g vs 7g)
- ✓More fiber (8.6g vs 6g)
- ✓Lower in carbs (68g vs 84g)
- ✓Lower sodium (5mg vs 760mg)
Common Uses
When to Choose Breakfast Cereal
- ✓Lower in calories (379 vs 471)
- ✓Less sugar (24g vs 33g)
Common Uses
Granola vs Breakfast Cereal: Nutritional Analysis
Granola is more calorie-dense at 471 calories per 100g compared to 379 for Breakfast Cereal, a difference of 92 calories. On the protein front, Granola delivers more with 9.4g per 100g versus 7g, 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 Granola and Breakfast Cereal tell different nutritional stories. Granola provides 68g of carbohydrates, 18g of fat, and 8.6g of fiber per 100g, while Breakfast Cereal contains 84g carbs, 1.9g fat, and 6g fiber. The higher fiber content in Granola supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Granola contains 33g while Breakfast Cereal has 24g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.
Key Takeaways
- For weight management: Breakfast Cereal is the lower-calorie choice at 379 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
- For muscle building: Granola provides more protein (9.4g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
- For sustained energy: Granola offers more fiber (8.6g/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, Granola or Breakfast Cereal?
Granola has more calories with 471 kcal per 100g, compared to Breakfast Cereal with 379 kcal. That's a difference of 92 calories per 100g serving.
Is Granola healthier than Breakfast Cereal?
Based on our nutritional analysis, Granola is generally the healthier choice, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Granola has 471 calories, 9.4g protein, and 8.6g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.
What is the protein difference between Granola and Breakfast Cereal?
Granola has more protein with 9.4g per 100g, compared to Breakfast Cereal with 7g. Granola provides 2.4g more protein per 100g serving.
Which is better for weight loss, Granola or Breakfast Cereal?
For weight loss, Breakfast Cereal is the better choice with only 379 calories per 100g compared to 471 calories in Granola. Granola also offers 8.6g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.
Does Granola or Breakfast Cereal have fewer carbs?
Granola has fewer carbs with 68g per 100g, compared to Breakfast Cereal with 84g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Granola is the better option with 16.0g fewer carbohydrates.
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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.