1 serving (150 grams) contains 250 calories, 15.0 grams of protein, 12.0 grams of fat, and 20.0 grams of carbohydrates.
Log this food in SnapCalorie
Nutrition Information
Calories |
394.3 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 18.9 g | 24% | |
| Saturated Fat | 7.9 g | 39% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 63.1 mg | 21% | |
| Sodium | 709.8 mg | 30% | |
| Total Carbohydrates | 31.5 g | 11% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 4.7 g | 16% | |
| Sugars | 3.2 g | ||
| protein | 23.7 g | 47% | |
| Vitamin D | 0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 157.7 mg | 12% | |
| Iron | 3.2 mg | 17% | |
| Potassium | 394.3 mg | 8% | |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Food Attributes
Source of Calories
About Beef tacos
Beef tacos are a traditional dish from Mexican cuisine, typically featuring soft or crispy tortillas filled with seasoned ground or shredded beef, fresh vegetables like lettuce and tomatoes, and toppings such as cheese, salsa, and guacamole. This dish offers a balanced nutritional profile depending on ingredients used, providing a mix of protein from the beef, fiber from vegetables, and carbohydrates from the tortillas. A standard beef taco (approximately 100g) can provide around 10-12 grams of protein, 2-3 grams of fiber, and varying amounts of fat depending on beef leanness and added toppings like cheese or sour cream.
Health Benefits
- Rich source of high-quality protein from beef, which supports muscle repair and immune function.
- Contains essential nutrients such as iron (2.1 mg per 100g of cooked beef) that aid in oxygen transportation in the blood.
- Supplies B vitamins, particularly vitamin B12, which contributes to energy production and neurological health.
- Fresh vegetable toppings like tomatoes and lettuce add dietary fiber and antioxidants like vitamin C, which support digestion and immune health.
- If corn tortillas are used, they provide whole grains that contribute to long-lasting energy and fiber intake.
Dietary Considerations
Selection and Storage
Store cooked beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 3-4 days. Fresh vegetables and tortillas should be kept separately to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess.
Common Questions About Beef tacos Nutrition
Are beef tacos a good source of protein?
Beef tacos are a good source of protein, as a single taco with ground beef typically contains about 10-15 grams of protein depending on the portion size. The protein content can vary based on the cut of beef and additional ingredients like cheese or beans, but they generally provide high-quality, complete protein.
Can I eat beef tacos on a keto diet?
Yes, beef tacos can fit into a keto diet if you replace traditional tortillas with low-carb alternatives, such as lettuce wraps or almond-flour tortillas. Focus on high-fat toppings like cheese, avocado, and sour cream, while avoiding high-carb ingredients like beans or corn.
Are beef tacos healthy, and what are the concerns?
Beef tacos can be a healthy option when made with lean beef, whole-grain tortillas, and fresh toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, and salsa. However, they may be high in saturated fats and sodium if made with processed ingredients or fatty cuts of beef, so balancing portions and ingredient choices is crucial.
What is the recommended portion size for beef tacos?
A typical serving size for beef tacos is 2-3 tacos, depending on their size and the accompanying ingredients. Aim for about 3-4 ounces of cooked beef per taco and balance your meal with a side of vegetables or a small salad to keep it nutritious.
How do beef tacos compare to chicken tacos nutritionally?
Beef tacos generally contain more saturated fat and calories compared to chicken tacos, especially if made with fattier cuts of beef. For example, 3 ounces of cooked ground beef (85% lean) has about 200 calories and 13 grams of fat, while 3 ounces of skinless chicken breast has about 140 calories and 3 grams of fat. Choose lean cuts of beef or opt for chicken for a lower-calorie alternative.
Data Sources & Scientific References
Our nutrition data comes from trusted, authoritative sources to ensure accuracy and reliability. Below are specific scientific references and authoritative sources for this food item.
- Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2020-2025: Protein FoodsU.S. Department of Agriculture and U.S. Department of Health and Human ServicesDiscusses the role of protein foods like beef in a balanced diet, including health considerations.
- Iron: Fact Sheet for Health ProfessionalsNational Institutes of Health, Office of Dietary SupplementsProvides information on iron, a key nutrient found in beef, relevant for its contribution to dietary health.
- Beef consumption and cardiovascular health: A systematic reviewAmerican Journal of Clinical NutritionAnalyzes the health effects of beef consumption, relevant for understanding the impact of beef tacos on health.
Additional Authoritative Sources:
Daily value percentages based on FDA guidelines. Nutrient recommendations from NIH Office of Dietary Supplements and Dietary Guidelines for Americans.
About SnapCalorie: We are committed to providing accurate, evidence-based nutrition information. Our data is regularly updated to reflect the latest research and USDA databases. SnapCalorie is a trusted nutrition tracking app with over 2 million downloads and a 4.8/5 star rating.
