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

Parmesan vs Candy: 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. Parmesan has 431 calories while Candy has 400 calories per 100g.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Candy

400 kcal

More Protein

Parmesan

38g

More Fiber

Parmesan

0g

Less Sugar

Parmesan

0.7g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Parmesan
431
Candy
400
Proteinper 100g
Parmesan
38g
Candy
0g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Parmesan
4.1g
Candy
100g
Fatper 100g
Parmesan
29g
Candy
0g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientParmesanCandyDifference
Calories431kcal400kcal+31.0kcal
Protein38g0g+38.0g
Carbohydrates4.1g100g-95.9g
Fat29g0g+29.0g
Fiber0g0g0.0g
Sugar0.7g90g-89.3g
Sodium1529mg20mg+1509.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

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

Parmesan

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

Candy

Per 100g:400 calories
Per cup (150g):600 calories
Per serving (85g):340 calories

Diet Compatibility

Parmesan

KetoLow-CarbHigh-ProteinVegetarian

Candy

VeganVegetarianLow-Sodium

When to Choose Parmesan

  • Higher in protein (38g vs 0g)
  • More fiber (0g vs 0g)
  • Lower in carbs (4.1g vs 100g)
  • Less sugar (0.7g vs 90g)

Common Uses

BreakfastSnacksCooking ingredientPost-workout
View full Parmesan nutrition →

When to Choose Candy

  • Lower in calories (400 vs 431)
  • Lower sodium (20mg vs 1529mg)

Common Uses

TreatsCelebrationsComfort foodSocial occasions
View full Candy nutrition →

Parmesan vs Candy: Nutritional Analysis

Parmesan is more calorie-dense at 431 calories per 100g compared to 400 for Candy, a difference of 31 calories. On the protein front, Parmesan delivers more with 38g 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 Parmesan and Candy tell different nutritional stories. Parmesan provides 4.1g of carbohydrates, 29g of fat, and 0g of fiber per 100g, while Candy contains 100g carbs, 0g fat, and 0g fiber. Sugar content also differs: Parmesan contains 0.7g while Candy has 90g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Candy is the lower-calorie choice at 400 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: Parmesan 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, Parmesan or Candy?

Parmesan has more calories with 431 kcal per 100g, compared to Candy with 400 kcal. That's a difference of 31 calories per 100g serving.

Is Parmesan healthier than Candy?

Parmesan and Candy 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 Parmesan and Candy?

Parmesan has more protein with 38g per 100g, compared to Candy with 0g. Parmesan provides 38.0g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Parmesan or Candy?

For weight loss, Candy is the better choice with only 400 calories per 100g compared to 431 calories in Parmesan. Candy also offers 0g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Parmesan or Candy have fewer carbs?

Parmesan has fewer carbs with 4.1g per 100g, compared to Candy with 100g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Parmesan is the better option with 95.9g 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.