Ground beef

Ground beef

Meat

Item Rating: 63/100

1 serving (113 grams) contains 250 calories, 19.0 grams of protein, 20.0 grams of fat, and 0.0 grams of carbohydrates.

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500.0
calories
38.0
protein
0
carbohydrates
40
fat

Nutrition Information

1 cup (226g)
Calories
500.0
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 40 g 51%
Saturated Fat 16.0 g 80%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0 g
Cholesterol 150 mg 50%
Sodium 150 mg 6%
Total Carbohydrates 0 g 0%
Dietary Fiber 0 g 0%
Sugars 0 g
protein 38.0 g 76%
Vitamin D 0 mcg 0%
Calcium 22 mg 1%
Iron 4.2 mg 23%
Potassium 540.0 mg 11%

* 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
⚠️ Contains trans fat
🧂 Low sodium
🧂 Low salt
🧈 High saturated fat
🥩 High protein
🍞 Low carbs

Source of Calories

0.0%
29.7%
70.3%
Fat: 360 cal (70.3%)
Protein: 152 cal (29.7%)
Carbs: 0 cal (0.0%)

About Ground beef

Ground beef is a versatile ingredient made from finely chopped beef, traditionally used in many global cuisines such as American, Mexican, Italian, and Middle Eastern dishes. It is a rich source of protein, vital for muscle maintenance and growth, and provides essential vitamins and minerals such as iron, B12, zinc, and selenium. The nutritional profile of ground beef can vary depending on its fat content, with lean versions containing less saturated fat, making them a healthier choice. Ground beef is commonly used in recipes like burgers, tacos, meatballs, and casseroles. Its flavor and texture make it an important component in both comfort foods and gourmet dishes.

Health Benefits

  • Supports muscle growth and repair due to its high protein content (approximately 20g per 3-ounce serving).
  • Enhances energy production and cognitive function with Vitamin B12, providing nearly 55% of the daily recommended intake per serving.
  • Promotes immune system function and wound healing with zinc, offering 3-4mg per 3-ounce serving.

Dietary Considerations

Allergens: None known
Suitable for: High-protein diets, low-carb diets, ketogenic diets
Not suitable for: Vegetarian diets, vegan diets

Selection and Storage

Store raw ground beef in the refrigerator at or below 40°F and consume within 1-2 days. If freezing, tightly wrap and label for best quality, lasting up to 3-4 months.

Common Questions About Ground beef Nutrition

Is ground beef high in protein?

Yes, ground beef is an excellent source of protein. A 3-ounce (85-gram) serving of 85% lean ground beef contains about 22 grams of protein, which supports muscle growth and repair. It also provides all essential amino acids, making it a complete protein source.

Can I eat ground beef on a keto diet?

Yes, ground beef is highly suitable for a keto diet due to its low carbohydrate content. A 3-ounce serving of 85% lean ground beef typically contains 0 grams of carbohydrates, making it an ideal choice for maintaining ketosis while also providing quality fats.

What are the health benefits and concerns of eating ground beef?

Ground beef is a good source of iron, zinc, and vitamin B12, which are important for energy production, immune health, and red blood cell formation. However, concerns arise with higher-fat versions or overconsumption, as they can increase saturated fat and contribute to heart disease risks. Choosing leaner options and moderating portions is recommended.

What is the recommended serving size for ground beef?

A typical serving size of ground beef is about 3 ounces (85 grams), equivalent to the size of a deck of cards. This portion provides approximately 213 calories for 85% lean ground beef, but portion sizes may vary based on dietary needs and fitness goals.

How does ground beef compare to ground turkey in nutrition?

Ground beef is higher in fat and calories compared to ground turkey, but it provides more iron and zinc. For example, 85% lean ground beef has about 213 calories and 17 grams of fat per 3-ounce serving, while 93% lean ground turkey typically has 170 calories and 8 grams of fat, making it a leaner option overall.

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.

  1. Vitamin B12 Fact Sheet for Health Professionals
    NIH Office of Dietary Supplements
    Discusses vitamin B12, a key nutrient found in ground beef, including its health benefits and dietary sources.

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.