Beef vs Bison: Calories and Nutrition Compared (2026)
Beef and bison offer distinct nutritional profiles worth comparing.
Bison is lower in calories at 143 compared to beef's 188, while beef is higher in protein with 29.9 g versus bison's 28.4 g.
When comparing beef and bison, both meats provide unique nutritional benefits. Understanding their differences can help in making informed dietary choices.
What Is the Difference Between Beef and Bison?
Beef is the meat obtained from cattle, known for its rich flavor and high protein content. It is commonly used in various culinary dishes worldwide. Bison is the meat from the American bison, recognized for being leaner than beef. It offers a slightly sweeter flavor and is often considered a healthier alternative.
Beef vs Bison: Nutrition Side by Side
The following table provides a side-by-side comparison of beef and bison nutrition.
| Nutrient (per 100 g) | Lean beef (cooked) | Bison (roasted, lean) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 188 kcal | 143 kcal |
| Protein | 29.9 g | 28.4 g |
| Carbs | 0 g | 0 g |
| Sugar | 0 g | 0 g |
| Fat | 7.1 g | 2.4 g |
| Fiber | 0 g | 0 g |
| Sodium | 64 mg | 57 mg |
Which Is Better, Beef or Bison?
For weight loss: Bison has 143 calories, which is 45 fewer than beef's 188 calories, making it a better option for those focused on weight loss.
For muscle and protein: Beef contains 29.9 g of protein, slightly higher than bison's 28.4 g, making it a better choice for those prioritizing protein intake.
For low-carb or low-sugar: Both beef and bison contain 0 g of carbs and 0 g of sugar, making them suitable options for low-carb or low-sugar diets.
How to Track Beef and Bison Accurately
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How We Compiled These Numbers
The numbers provided are rounded reference values for educational use, not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for dietary guidance. Values are per 100 g from USDA FoodData Central.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Which has more protein, beef or bison?
Beef has 29.9 g of protein, while bison has 28.4 g.
Which has fewer calories, beef or bison?
Bison has 143 calories, while beef has 188 calories.
What is the fat content in beef?
Beef contains 7.1 g of fat per 100 g.
What is the fat content in bison?
Bison contains 2.4 g of fat per 100 g.
How much sodium is in beef?
Beef contains 64 mg of sodium per 100 g.
How much sodium is in bison?
Bison contains 57 mg of sodium per 100 g.
Key Takeaways
- Beef has 188 calories per 100 g.
- Bison has 143 calories per 100 g.
- Beef contains 29.9 g of protein per 100 g.
- Bison contains 28.4 g of protein per 100 g.
- Both beef and bison have 0 g of carbs and sugar per 100 g.
- Beef has 7.1 g of fat, while bison has 2.4 g of fat per 100 g.
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