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

Oatmeal vs Bacon: 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?

Oatmeal is generally healthier

Oatmeal comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 4 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (389 vs 541), more fiber (11g vs 0g), less sugar (0g vs 1.2g), less sodium (2mg vs 1717mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Oatmeal

389 kcal

More Protein

Bacon

37g

More Fiber

Oatmeal

11g

Less Sugar

Oatmeal

0g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Oatmeal
389
Bacon
541
Proteinper 100g
Oatmeal
17g
Bacon
37g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Oatmeal
66g
Bacon
1.4g
Fatper 100g
Oatmeal
7g
Bacon
42g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientOatmealBaconDifference
Calories389kcal541kcal-152.0kcal
Protein17g37g-20.0g
Carbohydrates66g1.4g+64.6g
Fat7g42g-35.0g
Fiber11g0g+11.0g
Sugar0g1.2g-1.2g
Sodium2mg1717mg-1715.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

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

Oatmeal

Per 100g:389 calories
Per cup (150g):584 calories
Per serving (85g):331 calories

Bacon

Per 100g:541 calories
Per cup (150g):812 calories
Per serving (85g):460 calories

Diet Compatibility

Oatmeal

High-ProteinVeganVegetarianLow-Sodium

Bacon

KetoLow-CarbHigh-ProteinPaleo

When to Choose Oatmeal

  • Lower in calories (389 vs 541)
  • More fiber (11g vs 0g)
  • Less sugar (0g vs 1.2g)
  • Lower sodium (2mg vs 1717mg)

Common Uses

Side dishesBreakfastMeal baseEnergy food
View full Oatmeal nutrition →

When to Choose Bacon

  • Higher in protein (37g vs 17g)
  • Lower in carbs (1.4g vs 66g)

Common Uses

Main dishesMeal prepGrillingHigh-protein meals
View full Bacon nutrition →

Oatmeal vs Bacon: Nutritional Analysis

Bacon is more calorie-dense at 541 calories per 100g compared to 389 for Oatmeal, a difference of 152 calories. On the protein front, Bacon delivers more with 37g per 100g versus 17g, 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 Oatmeal and Bacon tell different nutritional stories. Oatmeal provides 66g of carbohydrates, 7g of fat, and 11g of fiber per 100g, while Bacon contains 1.4g carbs, 42g fat, and 0g fiber. The higher fiber content in Oatmeal supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Oatmeal contains 0g while Bacon has 1.2g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Oatmeal is the lower-calorie choice at 389 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Bacon provides more protein (37g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Oatmeal offers more fiber (11g/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, Oatmeal or Bacon?

Bacon has more calories with 541 kcal per 100g, compared to Oatmeal with 389 kcal. That's a difference of 152 calories per 100g serving.

Is Oatmeal healthier than Bacon?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Oatmeal is generally the healthier choice, winning in 4 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Oatmeal has 389 calories, 17g protein, and 11g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Oatmeal and Bacon?

Bacon has more protein with 37g per 100g, compared to Oatmeal with 17g. Bacon provides 20.0g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Oatmeal or Bacon?

For weight loss, Oatmeal is the better choice with only 389 calories per 100g compared to 541 calories in Bacon. Oatmeal also offers 11g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Oatmeal or Bacon have fewer carbs?

Bacon has fewer carbs with 1.4g per 100g, compared to Oatmeal with 66g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Bacon is the better option with 64.6g 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.