Lamb shanks

Lamb shanks

Dinner

Item Rating: 66/100

1 serving (200 grams) contains 420 calories, 35.0 grams of protein, 30.0 grams of fat, and 0.0 grams of carbohydrates.

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494.1
calories
41.2
protein
0
carbohydrates
35.3
fat

Nutrition Information

1 cup (235.3g)
Calories
494.1
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 35.3 g 45%
Saturated Fat 14.1 g 70%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0 g
Cholesterol 129.4 mg 43%
Sodium 105.9 mg 4%
Total Carbohydrates 0 g 0%
Dietary Fiber 0 g 0%
Sugars 0 g
protein 41.2 g 82%
Vitamin D 0 mcg 0%
Calcium 23.5 mg 1%
Iron 4.1 mg 22%
Potassium 411.8 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

🥓 Keto friendly
🍯 Low sugar
🧂 Low sodium
🧂 Low salt
🧈 High saturated fat
🥩 High protein
🍞 Low carbs

Source of Calories

0.0%
34.2%
65.8%
Fat: 317 cal (65.8%)
Protein: 164 cal (34.2%)
Carbs: 0 cal (0.0%)

About Lamb shanks

Lamb shanks are the lower part of a lamb's leg, commonly featured in Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, and European cuisines. Known for their rich flavor and tender texture when slow-cooked, lamb shanks are a source of high-quality protein and essential nutrients. A 3-ounce serving of cooked lamb shank provides approximately 28 grams of protein, 10 grams of fat, and contains vitamins B12 and B6, along with minerals like zinc, phosphorus, and iron. These nutrients are vital for energy production, oxygen transport, and immune health. Lamb is also a good source of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), a beneficial fat naturally found in grass-fed animal products. Although nutrient-dense, lamb shanks should be consumed in moderation due to their saturated fat content.

Health Benefits

  • Supports red blood cell production due to its high vitamin B12 content (67% of the RDA per serving).
  • Promotes immune function and wound healing with its zinc content (25% of the RDA per serving).
  • Supports muscle repair and energy levels as it is a rich source of high-quality protein (28 grams per serving).

Dietary Considerations

Allergens: None known
Suitable for: Ketogenic, paleo, gluten-free, low-carb
Not suitable for: Vegetarian, vegan, low-fat

Selection and Storage

Store raw lamb shanks in the refrigerator at 32-40°F (0-4°C) in a sealed container and consume within 3-5 days. For longer storage, freeze them in airtight packaging for up to six months. Defrost in the refrigerator before cooking.

Common Questions About Lamb shanks Nutrition

Is lamb shank high in protein?

Yes, lamb shank is high in protein. A 100-gram serving of cooked lamb shank contains approximately 25-27 grams of protein, making it a great choice for muscle repair and overall body function.

Can I eat lamb shank on a keto or low-carb diet?

Yes, lamb shank is suitable for both keto and low-carb diets. It contains nearly zero carbohydrates and is rich in fats and protein, aligning perfectly with the macronutrient requirements of these diets.

What are the health benefits or concerns of eating lamb shank?

Lamb shank is a rich source of iron, zinc, vitamin B12, and high-quality protein, supporting red blood cell production, immune health, and muscle repair. However, it is also high in saturated fat, with a 100-gram serving containing about 8-9 grams, so moderate consumption is recommended to maintain heart health.

What is the recommended portion size for lamb shanks?

A standard serving size of lamb shank is approximately 4-6 ounces (115-170 grams) of cooked meat per person. If serving a whole shank, one shank typically serves one to two people, depending on appetite and accompanying sides.

How does lamb shank compare to beef or pork cuts in flavor and nutrition?

Lamb shank has a richer and more distinct flavor compared to beef or pork due to its higher fat content and natural gamey taste. Nutritionally, lamb is a bit higher in saturated fats but also offers a comparable protein content and more micronutrients like iron and vitamin B12 compared to some beef or pork cuts.

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.

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.