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

Ice Cream vs Parmesan: 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. Ice Cream has 207 calories while Parmesan has 431 calories per 100g.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Ice Cream

207 kcal

More Protein

Parmesan

38g

More Fiber

Ice Cream

0g

Less Sugar

Parmesan

0.7g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Ice Cream
207
Parmesan
431
Proteinper 100g
Ice Cream
3.5g
Parmesan
38g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Ice Cream
24g
Parmesan
4.1g
Fatper 100g
Ice Cream
11g
Parmesan
29g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientIce CreamParmesanDifference
Calories207kcal431kcal-224.0kcal
Protein3.5g38g-34.5g
Carbohydrates24g4.1g+19.9g
Fat11g29g-18.0g
Fiber0g0g0.0g
Sugar21g0.7g+20.3g
Sodium52mg1529mg-1477.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

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

Ice Cream

Per 100g:207 calories
Per cup (150g):311 calories
Per serving (85g):176 calories

Parmesan

Per 100g:431 calories
Per cup (150g):647 calories
Per serving (85g):366 calories

Diet Compatibility

Ice Cream

VeganVegetarianLow-Sodium

Parmesan

KetoLow-CarbHigh-ProteinVegetarian

When to Choose Ice Cream

  • Lower in calories (207 vs 431)
  • More fiber (0g vs 0g)
  • Lower sodium (52mg vs 1529mg)

Common Uses

TreatsCelebrationsComfort foodSocial occasions
View full Ice Cream nutrition →

When to Choose Parmesan

  • Higher in protein (38g vs 3.5g)
  • Lower in carbs (4.1g vs 24g)
  • Less sugar (0.7g vs 21g)

Common Uses

BreakfastSnacksCooking ingredientPost-workout
View full Parmesan nutrition →

Ice Cream vs Parmesan: Nutritional Analysis

Parmesan is more calorie-dense at 431 calories per 100g compared to 207 for Ice Cream, a difference of 224 calories. On the protein front, Parmesan delivers more with 38g per 100g versus 3.5g, 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 Ice Cream and Parmesan tell different nutritional stories. Ice Cream provides 24g of carbohydrates, 11g of fat, and 0g of fiber per 100g, while Parmesan contains 4.1g carbs, 29g fat, and 0g fiber. Sugar content also differs: Ice Cream contains 21g while Parmesan has 0.7g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Ice Cream is the lower-calorie choice at 207 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Parmesan provides more protein (38g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Ice Cream 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, Ice Cream or Parmesan?

Parmesan has more calories with 431 kcal per 100g, compared to Ice Cream with 207 kcal. That's a difference of 224 calories per 100g serving.

Is Ice Cream healthier than Parmesan?

Ice Cream and Parmesan 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 Ice Cream and Parmesan?

Parmesan has more protein with 38g per 100g, compared to Ice Cream with 3.5g. Parmesan provides 34.5g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Ice Cream or Parmesan?

For weight loss, Ice Cream is the better choice with only 207 calories per 100g compared to 431 calories in Parmesan. Parmesan also offers 0g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Ice Cream or Parmesan have fewer carbs?

Parmesan has fewer carbs with 4.1g per 100g, compared to Ice Cream with 24g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Parmesan is the better option with 19.9g 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.