Chia SeedsVSRaw Quinoa

Comparing Chia seeds with Quinoa

Chia Seeds

Plant
May lack some essential amino acids. Good to pair with variety.
Cereal Grains and Pasta USDA #2710819
Top Protein
Protein17.0g
Cals
517
Fat
32.9g
Carbs
38.3g

Raw Quinoa

Complete
Contains all 9 essential amino acids. High bioavailability.
Cereal Grains and Pasta USDA #168874
Protein14.1g
Cals
368
Fat
6.1g
Carbs
64.2g

Nutritional Comparison Summary

When comparing Chia Seeds and Raw Quinoa, there are notable nutritional differences that can influence your dietary choices. Chia Seeds contains 2.9g more protein per 100g serving, representing a 17% difference in protein content. With 17.0g of protein, Chia Seeds is the superior choice for those prioritizing protein intake. For those watching their calorie intake, Raw Quinoa offers only 368 calories per 100g compared to 517.154 calories in Chia Seeds. Raw Quinoa provides complete protein with all essential amino acids, while Chia Seeds should be combined with complementary proteins for optimal nutrition. In terms of protein efficiency (protein per calorie), Raw Quinoa delivers more protein for fewer calories, making it an efficient protein source.

Best For Your Goals

Muscle Building & Recovery

Chia Seeds

With 17.0g of protein per 100g, Chia Seeds provides the higher protein content needed to support muscle protein synthesis, post-workout recovery, and lean muscle maintenance.

Weight Loss & Calorie Control

Raw Quinoa

At only 368 calories per 100g, Raw Quinoa allows you to maintain a calorie deficit while still getting essential nutrients, making it ideal for weight management and fat loss goals.

Maximum Protein per Calorie

Raw Quinoa

Raw Quinoa offers the best protein-to-calorie ratio, delivering 14.1g of protein for just 368 calories, perfect for maximizing protein intake while minimizing caloric load.

Vegetarian & Plant-Based Diets

Chia Seeds

Both are excellent plant-based options. Chia Seeds edges ahead with 17.0g of protein per serving, making it slightly better for meeting daily protein requirements on a vegetarian diet.

Low-Carb & Ketogenic Diets

Chia Seeds

With only 38.3g of carbohydrates per 100g, Chia Seeds fits perfectly into low-carb and ketogenic meal plans while providing substantial protein to maintain muscle mass during carb restriction.

General Fitness & Balanced Nutrition

Raw Quinoa

For everyday fitness enthusiasts seeking balanced nutrition, Raw Quinoa offers a good protein content at 14.1g with 368 calories, fitting well into most active lifestyle meal plans.

Key Differences

Protein Gap
2.9g
-17% difference
Calorie Gap
149
-29% difference
Fat Gap
26.8g
Carb Gap
25.9g

Category Winners

💪
Most Protein
Per 100g serving
Chia Seeds
📉
Lowest Calories
For weight loss
Raw Quinoa
Best Efficiency
Protein per calorie
Raw Quinoa
Source: USDA FoodData Central • Data as of 2026-01-05