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

Quinoa vs Egg: 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?

Quinoa is generally healthier

Quinoa comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (120 vs 155), more fiber (2.8g vs 0g), less sodium (7mg vs 124mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Quinoa

120 kcal

More Protein

Egg

13g

More Fiber

Quinoa

2.8g

Less Sugar

Egg

1.1g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Quinoa
120
Egg
155
Proteinper 100g
Quinoa
4.4g
Egg
13g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Quinoa
21g
Egg
1.1g
Fatper 100g
Quinoa
1.9g
Egg
11g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientQuinoaEggDifference
Calories120kcal155kcal-35.0kcal
Protein4.4g13g-8.6g
Carbohydrates21g1.1g+19.9g
Fat1.9g11g-9.1g
Fiber2.8g0g+2.8g
Sugar1.6g1.1g+0.5g
Sodium7mg124mg-117.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

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

Quinoa

Per 100g:120 calories
Per cup (150g):180 calories
Per serving (85g):102 calories

Egg

Per 100g:155 calories
Per cup (150g):233 calories
Per serving (85g):132 calories

Diet Compatibility

Quinoa

VeganVegetarianLow-Sodium

Egg

KetoLow-CarbVegetarianPaleoLow-Sodium

When to Choose Quinoa

  • Lower in calories (120 vs 155)
  • More fiber (2.8g vs 0g)
  • Lower sodium (7mg vs 124mg)

Common Uses

Side dishesBreakfastMeal baseEnergy food
View full Quinoa nutrition →

When to Choose Egg

  • Higher in protein (13g vs 4.4g)
  • Lower in carbs (1.1g vs 21g)
  • Less sugar (1.1g vs 1.6g)

Common Uses

Main dishesMeal prepGrillingHigh-protein meals
View full Egg nutrition →

Quinoa vs Egg: Nutritional Analysis

Egg is more calorie-dense at 155 calories per 100g compared to 120 for Quinoa, a difference of 35 calories. On the protein front, Egg delivers more with 13g per 100g versus 4.4g, 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 Quinoa and Egg tell different nutritional stories. Quinoa provides 21g of carbohydrates, 1.9g of fat, and 2.8g of fiber per 100g, while Egg contains 1.1g carbs, 11g fat, and 0g fiber. The higher fiber content in Quinoa supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Quinoa contains 1.6g while Egg has 1.1g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Quinoa is the lower-calorie choice at 120 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Egg provides more protein (13g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Quinoa offers more fiber (2.8g/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, Quinoa or Egg?

Egg has more calories with 155 kcal per 100g, compared to Quinoa with 120 kcal. That's a difference of 35 calories per 100g serving.

Is Quinoa healthier than Egg?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Quinoa is generally the healthier choice, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Quinoa has 120 calories, 4.4g protein, and 2.8g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Quinoa and Egg?

Egg has more protein with 13g per 100g, compared to Quinoa with 4.4g. Egg provides 8.6g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Quinoa or Egg?

For weight loss, Quinoa is the better choice with only 120 calories per 100g compared to 155 calories in Egg. Quinoa also offers 2.8g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Quinoa or Egg have fewer carbs?

Egg has fewer carbs with 1.1g per 100g, compared to Quinoa with 21g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Egg 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.