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

Parmesan vs Crackers: 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?

Crackers is generally healthier

Crackers comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (421 vs 431), more fiber (2g vs 0g), less sodium (735mg vs 1529mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Crackers

421 kcal

More Protein

Parmesan

38g

More Fiber

Crackers

2g

Less Sugar

Parmesan

0.7g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Parmesan
431
Crackers
421
Proteinper 100g
Parmesan
38g
Crackers
6g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Parmesan
4.1g
Crackers
71g
Fatper 100g
Parmesan
29g
Crackers
11g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientParmesanCrackersDifference
Calories431kcal421kcal+10.0kcal
Protein38g6g+32.0g
Carbohydrates4.1g71g-66.9g
Fat29g11g+18.0g
Fiber0g2g-2.0g
Sugar0.7g1.5g-0.8g
Sodium1529mg735mg+794.0mg

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

Crackers

Per 100g:421 calories
Per cup (150g):632 calories
Per serving (85g):358 calories

Diet Compatibility

Parmesan

KetoLow-CarbHigh-ProteinVegetarian

Crackers

VeganVegetarian

When to Choose Parmesan

  • Higher in protein (38g vs 6g)
  • Lower in carbs (4.1g vs 71g)
  • Less sugar (0.7g vs 1.5g)

Common Uses

BreakfastSnacksCooking ingredientPost-workout
View full Parmesan nutrition →

When to Choose Crackers

  • Lower in calories (421 vs 431)
  • More fiber (2g vs 0g)
  • Lower sodium (735mg vs 1529mg)

Common Uses

Between mealsMovie nightsPartiesTravel food
View full Crackers nutrition →

Parmesan vs Crackers: Nutritional Analysis

Parmesan is more calorie-dense at 431 calories per 100g compared to 421 for Crackers, a difference of 10 calories. On the protein front, Parmesan delivers more with 38g per 100g versus 6g, 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 Crackers tell different nutritional stories. Parmesan provides 4.1g of carbohydrates, 29g of fat, and 0g of fiber per 100g, while Crackers contains 71g carbs, 11g fat, and 2g fiber. The higher fiber content in Crackers supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Parmesan contains 0.7g while Crackers has 1.5g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Crackers is the lower-calorie choice at 421 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: Crackers offers more fiber (2g/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 Crackers?

Parmesan has more calories with 431 kcal per 100g, compared to Crackers with 421 kcal. That's a difference of 10 calories per 100g serving.

Is Parmesan healthier than Crackers?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Crackers is generally the healthier choice, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Crackers has 421 calories, 6g protein, and 2g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Parmesan and Crackers?

Parmesan has more protein with 38g per 100g, compared to Crackers with 6g. Parmesan provides 32.0g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Parmesan or Crackers?

For weight loss, Crackers is the better choice with only 421 calories per 100g compared to 431 calories in Parmesan. Crackers also offers 2g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Parmesan or Crackers have fewer carbs?

Parmesan has fewer carbs with 4.1g per 100g, compared to Crackers with 71g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Parmesan is the better option with 66.9g 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.