Elk

Meat

Item Rating: 77/100

1 serving (100 grams) contains 111 calories, 22.0 grams of protein, 2.0 grams of fat, and 0.0 grams of carbohydrates.

Nutrition Information

1 cup (238.1g)

Calories		264.3
% Daily Value*
Total Fat		4.8 g	6%
	Saturated Fat	1.2 g	6%
	Polyunsaturated Fat	0 g
Cholesterol		157.1 mg	52%
Sodium		154.8 mg	6%
Total Carbohydrates		0 g	0%
	Dietary Fiber	0 g	0%
	Sugars	0 g
protein		52.4 g	104%
Vitamin D		0 mcg	0%
Calcium		11.9 mg	0%
Iron		8.3 mg	46%
Potassium		785.7 mg	16%

* 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

🥓 Keto friendly

🍯 Low sugar

🥩 High protein

🍞 Low carbs

Source of Calories

Fat: 43 cal (17.1%)

Protein: 209 cal (82.9%)

Carbs: 0 cal (0.0%)

About Elk

Elk is a lean red meat derived from the elk species, known for its use in North American and European cuisines, particularly in indigenous and rural communities. This game meat has a rich, slightly sweet flavor and is considered a healthier alternative to beef due to its lower fat content. Elk is nutritionally dense, offering high protein (22 grams per 100-gram serving) with very low fat (only 2 grams per serving) and zero carbohydrates, making it ideal for individuals seeking a low-calorie, nutrient-rich protein source. Elk is also a good source of iron (3.5 mg) and contains minimal amounts of calcium, making it desirable for those needing iron-rich foods while maintaining calorie control. Its lean nature makes elk an excellent choice for athletes and those on high-protein diets, such as Paleo or ketogenic eating plans.

Health Benefits

• Rich source of protein (22g per 100g), which supports muscle repair and growth.
• High in iron (3.5mg), essential for oxygen transportation in the blood and preventing anemia.
• Low in fat (2g per serving), making it heart-friendly and ideal for weight management.

Dietary Considerations

Allergens: Contains None reported unless cross-contaminated during processing

Suitable for: Paleo diet, ketogenic diet, low-carb diet, high-protein diet

Not suitable for: Vegetarian diet, vegan diet, low-protein diet

Selection and Storage

Keep elk meat refrigerated at 32-40°F and use within 2-3 days, or freeze promptly at 0°F for longer storage. Thaw frozen elk meat in the refrigerator before cooking for best results.

Common Questions About Elk Nutrition

Is elk high in protein?

Yes, elk is a high-protein food, providing approximately 22 grams of protein per 3-ounce serving. This makes it an excellent source of lean protein for muscle growth and repair.

Can I eat elk on a keto diet?

Yes, elk is a great choice for a keto diet as it contains 0 grams of carbohydrates and only 2 grams of fat per 3-ounce serving. Its high protein content also supports keto-centric nutritional goals.

What are the health benefits of eating elk?

Elk is a lean meat that's low in calories (111 calories per 3 ounces) and packed with nutrients like protein and iron. It's lower in fat compared to beef and contributes to heart health and muscle maintenance. However, its sodium content is moderate (65 mg per serving), so it should be consumed in balance if monitoring sodium intake.

How much elk meat should I eat per serving?

A typical serving size of elk meat is 3 ounces, which provides 111 calories, 22 grams of protein, and only 2 grams of fat. This portion size aligns with dietary recommendations for lean protein.

How does elk compare to beef in terms of nutrition?

Elk is significantly leaner than beef, with only 2 grams of fat per 3-ounce serving compared to around 8-10 grams in many beef cuts. Elk also has fewer calories (111 vs. 200–250) while providing a similar amount of protein. It is a healthier alternative for those watching fat and calorie intake.

Data Sources & Scientific References