Quorn vs Chicken: Which One is Healthier?

quorn vs chicken

Quorn is considered a healthy alternative to meat while chicken is known to be much healthier than other types of meat such as beef and lamb. But how do these two sources of protein compare?

Which one is better in terms of nutritional value and which one is healthier? Should you eat quorn or chicken if you want to lose weight? What about if you want to gain muscles?

You will find answers to all these questions in this quorn vs chicken comparison.

Quick Answer:

If you’re looking for high protein and muscle gain, chicken is the better option with over double the protein of Quorn. However, if you’re focused on a lower-calorie, meat-free option, Quorn could be the healthier choice, especially if you’re watching your calorie intake or prefer plant-based diets. Both are low in fat and suitable for weight loss.

How Do Quorn and Chicken Stack Up Nutritionally?

First of all, let’s take a look at how quorn and chicken compare when it comes to macronutrients.

The table below summarises fat, protein, carbohydrates and calories in both protein sources. The values below are per 100g.

Quorn (pieces)Chicken (breast, roasted)
Protein13.8g30.2 g
Fat2.6g0.9 g
Carbohydrates1.7 g0 g
Calories99 kcal129 kcal

Important Considerations:
The nutritional values of chicken can vary depending on the cut (thigh, breast, etc.) and how the chicken was raised (free-range, organic, etc.).

Similarly, Quorn comes in various forms like mince, fillets, or pieces, which can influence its nutritional profile. For this comparison, we used Quorn pieces and roasted chicken breast.

Protein Comparison

Chicken has more than double the protein of Quorn, with chicken providing 30.2g per 100g compared to Quorn’s 13.8g per 100g. This makes chicken an excellent option for muscle building, while Quorn offers less protein.

Fat Content

Quorn contains more fat than chicken (2.6g vs. 0.9g per 100g). Chicken is a leaner option, especially for low-fat diets.

Carbohydrates

Chicken breast wins here with 0g carbs, making it a better fit for carb-conscious eaters. Quorn has 1.7g of carbohydrates per 100g.

Calorie Count

Chicken has slightly more calories (129 kcal vs. Quorn’s 99 kcal per 100g), but both are low-calorie options overall.

Quorn or Chicken: Which Is Better for Weight Loss?

If you’re trying to lose weight, both Quorn and chicken are good choices due to their low-calorie content. However, one may be better for specific diets:

  • For high-protein, low-carb diets: Chicken breast is ideal, offering high protein with zero carbs.
  • For calorie counting: Quorn has fewer calories, making it a better option if every calorie counts.

Are There Any Side Effects of Eating Quorn?

While Quorn is a healthy meat alternative for many, some people may experience side effects. A small percentage of individuals report digestive issues such as nausea, bloating, or stomach cramps after consuming Quorn. This is likely due to its mycoprotein, which is the fermented fungus used in Quorn products. Additionally, Quorn is a processed food, which some prefer to avoid in favor of more natural options like organic chicken.

Organic Chicken: A Healthier Option?

When comparing Quorn and chicken, it’s important to note that regular chicken may contain antibiotics and other additives. Organic chicken, however, is free from these chemicals and is raised on a more natural diet, making it a cleaner, healthier option.

While Quorn is a processed product, organic chicken is a whole food, less processed, and more natural. For those prioritizing natural, unprocessed options, organic chicken may be the healthier choice compared to both regular chicken and Quorn.

Quorn vs Chicken: Which Is Healthier?

Both Quorn and chicken offer high protein with low fat and calories, making them healthy choices. However, regular chicken may contain antibiotics, while organic chicken is a more natural, unprocessed option.

Quorn, being a processed product, may cause digestive issues for some, though it is a good plant-based alternative with added fibre. If you prioritize natural, whole foods, organic chicken may be healthier, but Quorn is a solid option for those seeking a meat-free diet.

References

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4462824/
https://www.quorn.co.uk/products/chicken-style-pieces