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

Ground Beef vs Coca-Cola: 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?

Both foods have similar nutritional profiles

Both foods have similar nutritional profiles with each winning in different categories. Your choice should depend on your specific dietary goals and preferences. Ground Beef has 250 calories while Coca-Cola has 42 calories per 100g.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Coca-Cola

42 kcal

More Protein

Ground Beef

26g

More Fiber

Ground Beef

0g

Less Sugar

Ground Beef

0g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Ground Beef
250
Coca-Cola
42
Proteinper 100g
Ground Beef
26g
Coca-Cola
0g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Ground Beef
0g
Coca-Cola
11g
Fatper 100g
Ground Beef
17g
Coca-Cola
0g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientGround BeefCoca-ColaDifference
Calories250kcal42kcal+208.0kcal
Protein26g0g+26.0g
Carbohydrates0g11g-11.0g
Fat17g0g+17.0g
Fiber0g0g0.0g
Sugar0g11g-11.0g
Sodium75mg4mg+71.0mg

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

Coca-Cola

Per 100g:42 calories
Per cup (150g):63 calories
Per serving (85g):36 calories

Diet Compatibility

Ground Beef

KetoLow-CarbHigh-ProteinPaleoLow-Sodium

Coca-Cola

Low-CalorieVeganVegetarianLow-Sodium

When to Choose Ground Beef

  • Higher in protein (26g vs 0g)
  • More fiber (0g vs 0g)
  • Lower in carbs (0g vs 11g)
  • Less sugar (0g vs 11g)

Common Uses

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

When to Choose Coca-Cola

  • Lower in calories (42 vs 250)
  • Lower sodium (4mg vs 75mg)

Common Uses

HydrationMorning ritualSocial occasionsEnergy boost
View full Coca-Cola nutrition →

Ground Beef vs Coca-Cola: Nutritional Analysis

Ground Beef is more calorie-dense at 250 calories per 100g compared to 42 for Coca-Cola, a difference of 208 calories. On the protein front, Ground Beef delivers more with 26g per 100g versus 0g, 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 Coca-Cola tell different nutritional stories. Ground Beef provides 0g of carbohydrates, 17g of fat, and 0g of fiber per 100g, while Coca-Cola contains 11g carbs, 0g fat, and 0g fiber. Sugar content also differs: Ground Beef contains 0g while Coca-Cola has 11g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Coca-Cola is the lower-calorie choice at 42 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: Ground Beef 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, Ground Beef or Coca-Cola?

Ground Beef has more calories with 250 kcal per 100g, compared to Coca-Cola with 42 kcal. That's a difference of 208 calories per 100g serving.

Is Ground Beef healthier than Coca-Cola?

Ground Beef and Coca-Cola have similar nutritional profiles, with each food winning in different categories. The healthier choice depends on your specific dietary goals and nutritional needs.

What is the protein difference between Ground Beef and Coca-Cola?

Ground Beef has more protein with 26g per 100g, compared to Coca-Cola with 0g. Ground Beef provides 26.0g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Ground Beef or Coca-Cola?

For weight loss, Coca-Cola is the better choice with only 42 calories per 100g compared to 250 calories in Ground Beef. Coca-Cola also offers 0g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Ground Beef or Coca-Cola have fewer carbs?

Ground Beef has fewer carbs with 0g per 100g, compared to Coca-Cola 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.