How much protein is in Vienna bread?

December 29, 2025 •

3 min read

According to nutritional data, a typical 100-gram serving of white Vienna bread contains approximately 8 grams of protein. The final amount can vary based on ingredients and preparation, but Vienna bread is generally not considered a high-protein food.

Quick Summary

This article details the protein content of Vienna bread, explaining how factors like ingredients and processing affect its nutritional profile. It also compares the protein levels in Vienna bread to those found in whole wheat bread and outlines simple ways to increase your protein intake when eating it.

Key Points

Moderate Protein Content: A typical 100-gram serving of white Vienna bread contains around 8 grams of protein.
Refined Flour Base: The protein primarily comes from the refined wheat flour, which is lower in fiber and overall protein than whole-grain alternatives.
Ingredient Impact: The protein level can increase with the addition of ingredients like soy flour, seeds, or the use of whole wheat flour.
Easy to Supplement: You can significantly increase your protein intake by pairing Vienna bread with protein-rich toppings like lean meats, cheese, eggs, or nut butter.
Balanced Diet: While not a high-protein food, Vienna bread can be part of a healthy, balanced diet when consumed in moderation alongside other nutrient-dense foods.

Protein content in Vienna bread

Vienna bread is primarily a source of carbohydrates, with protein playing a supporting, though not insignificant, role. The exact amount of protein can differ widely depending on the recipe, particularly whether it's a traditional white Vienna loaf or a whole-grain variation. A standard white Vienna bread, made primarily with refined flour, will typically have a lower protein density compared to its whole-grain counterpart or other specialty breads.

For example, multiple sources indicate that a 100-gram portion of a typical white Vienna loaf contains between 8 and 8.3 grams of protein. This is notably less than the 15-20 grams of protein per 100 grams often found in breads specifically marketed as 'protein bread'. A medium slice of toasted French or Vienna bread, which is a smaller portion, may contain around 5.66 grams of protein.

Factors influencing Vienna bread's protein

Several factors can influence the final protein content of Vienna bread:

Flour type: The type of flour is the most significant factor. Traditional white Vienna bread uses a refined wheat flour with a lower protein percentage. Whole wheat or ancient grain variations, which include more of the grain's components, naturally boost the protein and fiber content.
Added ingredients: Some recipes, especially homemade ones, may incorporate additional protein-rich ingredients. These can include soy flour, wheat gluten flour, or seeds like sunflower and flax.
Enrichment and fortification: Some commercially produced Vienna breads are enriched or fortified with extra nutrients, which can slightly alter the standard macronutrient breakdown.
Portion size: The protein amount changes with serving size. While a 100-gram portion offers a moderate amount, a small, thin slice will provide considerably less.

Comparison table: Vienna bread vs. other breads

The following table illustrates how the protein content of Vienna bread compares to other common types of bread based on a 100-gram serving.


Bread Type	Protein per 100g (Approx.)	Carbohydrates per 100g (Approx.)	Fiber per 100g (Approx.)	Best For
Standard Vienna (White)	8.1g	43.4g	3.5g	Sandwiches, toast, mild flavor
Whole Wheat Vienna	8.3g	51.4g	Higher than white	Higher fiber option
Protein Bread	15-20g	Lower than Vienna	Significantly higher	Low-carb diets, higher protein
Standard White Bread	8-10g	Similar to Vienna	Lower than Vienna	Basic uses, general consumption

How to increase protein when eating Vienna bread

If you enjoy Vienna bread but want to increase your protein intake, you don't have to switch to another type of bread. The key is to pair it with protein-rich toppings or fillings to create a more balanced meal. This strategy also helps mitigate the high glycemic index of white bread, which can cause faster blood sugar spikes.

Here are some excellent ways to boost the protein in your Vienna bread meal:

Lean meats: Stack your sandwich with sliced chicken breast, turkey, or lean ham.
Cheese: Add a slice of low-fat cheese or cottage cheese to your toast.
Eggs: Top your toast with scrambled, poached, or fried eggs for a substantial protein boost.
Legumes: A spread of hummus, a legume-based dip, adds both protein and fiber.
Avocado and Seeds: Smash avocado on toast and sprinkle with hemp seeds, which are a complete protein source, or sunflower seeds.
Nut butter: For a sweeter option, use natural peanut or almond butter, but be mindful of the added sugar in some brands.

Conclusion

In summary, Vienna bread is a delicious, carbohydrate-rich staple that provides a moderate amount of protein, typically around 8 grams per 100 grams. While it is not a protein powerhouse, its nutritional profile can be easily enhanced through smart pairings. By choosing whole wheat versions or adding protein-rich toppings, you can enjoy this versatile bread while building a more nutritionally complete meal. The bread's protein content, derived primarily from refined wheat flour, is lower than that of high-protein or whole-grain breads but is still a valuable part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, Vienna bread is not considered a good source of protein. Its main macronutrient is carbohydrates, and its protein content is moderate, typically providing around 8 grams per 100-gram serving.

Whole wheat bread generally contains more protein and fiber than traditional white Vienna bread. The whole-grain content of whole wheat bread means it retains more of the grain's nutritional value, including protein.

Yes, you can increase your protein intake when eating Vienna bread by adding protein-rich toppings or fillings. Examples include lean meats, eggs, cheese, hummus, or nut butters.

The main factors are the type of flour used (refined vs. whole grain), whether extra protein sources like seeds or soy flour are added, and the specific recipe's formulation.

Vienna bread can be part of a healthy diet, especially when consumed in moderation and paired with other nutrient-rich foods. However, it is high in refined carbohydrates and relatively low in fiber compared to whole-grain options.

A single slice of Vienna bread contains a small amount of protein. For example, a medium slice might have around 5.66 grams of protein, but this can vary depending on the size and thickness of the slice.

Besides protein, Vienna bread is rich in carbohydrates and contains modest amounts of B vitamins and minerals like iron and manganese, especially if fortified. It is typically low in fat and fiber.