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

Ground Beef vs Bagel: 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 4 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (250 vs 257), more protein (26g vs 10g), less sugar (0g vs 6.6g), less sodium (75mg vs 430mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Ground Beef

250 kcal

More Protein

Ground Beef

26g

More Fiber

Bagel

2.1g

Less Sugar

Ground Beef

0g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Ground Beef
250
Bagel
257
Proteinper 100g
Ground Beef
26g
Bagel
10g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Ground Beef
0g
Bagel
50g
Fatper 100g
Ground Beef
17g
Bagel
1.7g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientGround BeefBagelDifference
Calories250kcal257kcal-7.0kcal
Protein26g10g+16.0g
Carbohydrates0g50g-50.0g
Fat17g1.7g+15.3g
Fiber0g2.1g-2.1g
Sugar0g6.6g-6.6g
Sodium75mg430mg-355.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

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

Ground Beef

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

Bagel

Per 100g:257 calories
Per cup (150g):386 calories
Per serving (85g):218 calories

Diet Compatibility

Ground Beef

KetoLow-CarbHigh-ProteinPaleoLow-Sodium

Bagel

VeganVegetarian

When to Choose Ground Beef

  • Lower in calories (250 vs 257)
  • Higher in protein (26g vs 10g)
  • Lower in carbs (0g vs 50g)
  • Less sugar (0g vs 6.6g)
  • Lower sodium (75mg vs 430mg)

Common Uses

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

When to Choose Bagel

  • More fiber (2.1g vs 0g)

Common Uses

Side dishesBreakfastMeal baseEnergy food
View full Bagel nutrition →

Ground Beef vs Bagel: Nutritional Analysis

Bagel is more calorie-dense at 257 calories per 100g compared to 250 for Ground Beef, a difference of 7 calories. On the protein front, Ground Beef delivers more with 26g per 100g versus 10g, 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 Ground Beef and Bagel tell different nutritional stories. Ground Beef provides 0g of carbohydrates, 17g of fat, and 0g of fiber per 100g, while Bagel contains 50g carbs, 1.7g fat, and 2.1g fiber. The higher fiber content in Bagel supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Ground Beef contains 0g while Bagel has 6.6g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Ground Beef is the lower-calorie choice at 250 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: Bagel offers more fiber (2.1g/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, Ground Beef or Bagel?

Bagel has more calories with 257 kcal per 100g, compared to Ground Beef with 250 kcal. That's a difference of 7 calories per 100g serving.

Is Ground Beef healthier than Bagel?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Ground Beef is generally the healthier choice, winning in 4 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 Ground Beef and Bagel?

Ground Beef has more protein with 26g per 100g, compared to Bagel with 10g. Ground Beef provides 16.0g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Ground Beef or Bagel?

For weight loss, Ground Beef is the better choice with only 250 calories per 100g compared to 257 calories in Bagel. Bagel also offers 2.1g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Ground Beef or Bagel have fewer carbs?

Ground Beef has fewer carbs with 0g per 100g, compared to Bagel with 50g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Ground Beef 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.