Bear, polar, meat, raw (Alaska Native)
Category: American Indian/Alaska Native Foods
Nutrition Highlights
Serving Size
Calories
130
Nutrient
% Daily Value*
*Daily Values are based on the reference caloric intake of 2,000 calories for adults and children aged 4+ years. Source: Food & Drug Administration
Calorie Sources
| Nutrient | Calories kcal (%) |
|---|---|
| Protein | 102 (78.6%) |
| Fat | 28 (21.4%) |
| Total | 130 (100%) |
Serving: 100g/3.5oz [100g]
Composition
| Nutrient | Weight g (%) |
|---|---|
| Water | 70 (70.3%) |
| Protein | 26 (25.6%) |
| Fat | 3.1 (3.1%) |
| Ash | 1.0 (1.0%) |
| Total | 100 (100%) |
Serving: 100g/3.5oz [100g]
Benefits
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High in protein, with 3 ounces providing around 20 grams. The protein in polar bear meat comes from lean muscle meat and is considered high quality
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A rich source of iron, zinc and B vitamins like niacin, riboflavin and B12. These nutrients are important for energy production and red blood cell formation
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Contains omega-3 fatty acids like EPA and DHA which have anti-inflammatory properties. Research shows omega-3s support heart and brain health
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Low in saturated fat and calories. 3 ounces has around 130 calories and 4 grams of fat, most of which is the heart-healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated kind
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Culturally significant food for Alaska Natives. Provides nutrition and food security in Arctic regions where other sources may be limited
Risks
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High in fat and calories. Polar bear meat contains a lot of fat which can lead to weight gain if consumed in large amounts
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May contain toxins. Polar bears can accumulate toxins like mercury in their tissues from eating contaminated prey. Eating polar bear meat can expose humans to these toxins
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Risk of trichinella infection. Trichinella spiralis is a parasitic roundworm that can infect polar bears and humans. Undercooked or raw polar bear meat poses a risk of trichinella infection
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Limited nutrient value. Polar bear meat is low in nutrients like vitamins and minerals compared to other meats. It should not be relied upon as a primary source of nutrition
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Cultural/legal issues. In some areas, hunting and consuming polar bear meat raises cultural issues for indigenous communities or legal issues due to conservation laws
Additional Information
Bear meat, specifically polar bear meat from Alaska Native sources, offers both nutritional benefits and potential risks. As a nutrition expert, I will outline these aspects within the given word limit.
Nutritional Benefits:
1. High Protein Content: Bear meat is an excellent source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing body tissues, producing enzymes and hormones, and supporting a healthy immune system. The protein content in polar bear meat can range from 18-20%, making it a valuable option for individuals looking to meet their protein needs.
2. Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Polar bear meat provides various essential vitamins and minerals. It contains significant amounts of B vitamins such as niacin, riboflavin, and vitamin B12, which are crucial for energy production, brain function, and red blood cell formation. Additionally, it is a good source of minerals like iron, zinc, and selenium, which play vital roles in immune function, metabolism, and antioxidant defense.
3. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Polar bear meat is known to be rich in omega-3 fatty acids, particularly eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). These fatty acids have been associated with numerous health benefits, including reducing inflammation, improving heart health, and supporting brain function. Including polar bear meat in the diet can contribute to meeting omega-3 requirements.
Risks:
1. Contamination: One of the primary risks associated with consuming polar bear meat is the potential for contamination with environmental pollutants. Due to their position at the top of the food chain, polar bears can accumulate high levels of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) such as mercury and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). These contaminants may pose health risks, particularly if consumed in large quantities or over an extended period. Pregnant women and children are especially advised to limit their intake due to the potential harmful effects on fetal and child development.
2. Trichinella Infection: Bears, including polar bears, can carry the parasite Trichinella spiralis, which causes trichinellosis if consumed raw or undercooked. Trichinellosis can lead to symptoms such as fever, muscle pain, swelling around the eyes, and in severe cases, even neurological complications. Therefore, thorough cooking or freezing at appropriate temperatures is necessary to eliminate the risk of trichinella infection.
3. Limited Availability and Hunting Regulations: Polar bears are protected and managed by wildlife conservation laws. It is illegal to hunt polar bears for commercial purposes, and their meat is generally not available in the market. Additionally, hunting regulations and quotas exist to ensure sustainable hunting practices for Alaska Native communities. Therefore, the availability of polar bear meat may be limited, and it is crucial to adhere to legal and sustainable hunting practices.
In conclusion, polar bear meat from Alaska Native sources can provide valuable nutritional benefits, including high protein content, essential vitamins and minerals, and omega-3 fatty acids. However, potential risks such as contamination with environmental pollutants, trichinella infection, and limited availability due to hunting regulations should be considered. It is essential to prioritize food safety, adhere to legal guidelines, and consult local health authorities or nutrition experts for specific recommendations regarding the consumption of polar bear meat.