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

Parmesan vs Granola: 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?

Parmesan is generally healthier

Parmesan comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (431 vs 471), more protein (38g vs 9.4g), less sugar (0.7g vs 33g), making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Parmesan

431 kcal

More Protein

Parmesan

38g

More Fiber

Granola

8.6g

Less Sugar

Parmesan

0.7g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Parmesan
431
Granola
471
Proteinper 100g
Parmesan
38g
Granola
9.4g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Parmesan
4.1g
Granola
68g
Fatper 100g
Parmesan
29g
Granola
18g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientParmesanGranolaDifference
Calories431kcal471kcal-40.0kcal
Protein38g9.4g+28.6g
Carbohydrates4.1g68g-63.9g
Fat29g18g+11.0g
Fiber0g8.6g-8.6g
Sugar0.7g33g-32.3g
Sodium1529mg5mg+1524.0mg

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

Granola

Per 100g:471 calories
Per cup (150g):707 calories
Per serving (85g):400 calories

Diet Compatibility

Parmesan

KetoLow-CarbHigh-ProteinVegetarian

Granola

VeganVegetarianLow-Sodium

When to Choose Parmesan

  • Lower in calories (431 vs 471)
  • Higher in protein (38g vs 9.4g)
  • Lower in carbs (4.1g vs 68g)
  • Less sugar (0.7g vs 33g)

Common Uses

BreakfastSnacksCooking ingredientPost-workout
View full Parmesan nutrition →

When to Choose Granola

  • More fiber (8.6g vs 0g)
  • Lower sodium (5mg vs 1529mg)

Common Uses

Between mealsMovie nightsPartiesTravel food
View full Granola nutrition →

Parmesan vs Granola: Nutritional Analysis

Granola is more calorie-dense at 471 calories per 100g compared to 431 for Parmesan, a difference of 40 calories. On the protein front, Parmesan delivers more with 38g per 100g versus 9.4g, 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 Granola tell different nutritional stories. Parmesan provides 4.1g of carbohydrates, 29g of fat, and 0g of fiber per 100g, while Granola contains 68g carbs, 18g fat, and 8.6g fiber. The higher fiber content in Granola supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Parmesan contains 0.7g while Granola has 33g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Parmesan is the lower-calorie choice at 431 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: Granola offers more fiber (8.6g/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 Granola?

Granola has more calories with 471 kcal per 100g, compared to Parmesan with 431 kcal. That's a difference of 40 calories per 100g serving.

Is Parmesan healthier than Granola?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Parmesan is generally the healthier choice, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Parmesan has 431 calories, 38g protein, and 0g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Parmesan and Granola?

Parmesan has more protein with 38g per 100g, compared to Granola with 9.4g. Parmesan provides 28.6g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Parmesan or Granola?

For weight loss, Parmesan is the better choice with only 431 calories per 100g compared to 471 calories in Granola. Granola also offers 8.6g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Parmesan or Granola have fewer carbs?

Parmesan has fewer carbs with 4.1g per 100g, compared to Granola with 68g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Parmesan is the better option with 63.9g 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.