Raw QuinoaVSRaw Couscous

Raw Quinoa has 1.4g more protein per 100g than Raw Couscous — 14.1g vs 12.8g per 100g (USDA). For those watching their calorie intake, Raw Quinoa offers only 368 calories per 100g compared to 376 calories in Raw Couscous. Raw Quinoa provides complete protein with all essential amino acids, while Raw Couscous 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.

Source: USDA FoodData Central · Data as of Jan 2026

Nutrition comparison per 100g: Raw Quinoa vs Raw Couscous (Source: USDA FoodData Central)
Nutrient (per 100g) Raw QuinoaRaw Couscous
Protein 14.1 g12.8 g
Calories 368 kcal376 kcal
Total fat 6.1 g0.6 g
Carbohydrates 64.2 g77.4 g

Raw Quinoa

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

Raw Couscous

Plant
May lack some essential amino acids. Good to pair with variety.
Cereal Grains and Pasta USDA #169699
Protein12.8g
Cals
376
Fat
0.6g
Carbs
77.4g

How does Raw Quinoa compare to Raw Couscous?

Raw Quinoa has 1.4g more protein per 100g than Raw Couscous — 14.1g vs 12.8g per 100g (USDA). For those watching their calorie intake, Raw Quinoa offers only 368 calories per 100g compared to 376 calories in Raw Couscous. Raw Quinoa provides complete protein with all essential amino acids, while Raw Couscous 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.

Which food fits which goal?

Muscle Building & Recovery

Raw Quinoa

With 14.1g of protein per 100g, Raw Quinoa 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

Raw Quinoa

Both are excellent plant-based options. Raw Quinoa edges ahead with 14.1g of protein per serving, making it slightly better for meeting daily protein requirements on a vegetarian diet.

Low-Carb & Ketogenic Diets

Raw Quinoa

With only 64.2g of carbohydrates per 100g, Raw Quinoa 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 Couscous

For everyday fitness enthusiasts seeking balanced nutrition, Raw Couscous offers a good protein content at 12.8g with 376 calories, fitting well into most active lifestyle meal plans.

What are the key nutritional differences?

Protein Gap
1.4g
-10% difference
Calorie Gap
8
2% difference
Fat Gap
5.4g
Carb Gap
13.3g

Category Winners

💪
Most Protein
Per 100g serving
Raw Quinoa
📉
Lowest Calories
For weight loss
Raw Quinoa
Best Efficiency
Protein per calorie
Raw Quinoa