Game meat, buffalo, water
Category: Lamb, Veal, & Game Products Method: Raw
Nutrition Highlights
Serving Size
Calories
28
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 | 23 (82.5%) |
| Fat | 3.5 (12.5%) |
| Total | 28 (100%) |
Serving: 1 oz [28g]
Composition
| Nutrient | Weight g (%) |
|---|---|
| Water | 22 (76.3%) |
| Protein | 5.8 (20.4%) |
| Fat | 0.4 (1.4%) |
| Ash | 0.3 (1.1%) |
| Total | 28 (100%) |
Serving: 1 oz [28g]
Benefits
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High in protein and low in fat. A 3-ounce serving of buffalo provides about 27 grams of protein and only 3 grams of fat
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Rich in B vitamins. Buffalo meat is a good source of niacin, vitamin B6, and vitamin B12, which are important for energy production and red blood cell formation
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Contains iron and zinc. Buffalo meat contains iron and zinc which are essential minerals for oxygen transport and immune function
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Lean and low calorie. A 3-ounce serving of raw buffalo has only about 130 calories making it a healthy choice for weight management
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High in omega-3 fatty acids. The fat in buffalo contains heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids which may help reduce inflammation
Risks
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Risk of bacterial contamination such as Salmonella, Listeria, E. coli. Raw game meat may contain bacteria that can cause foodborne illness
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Risk of parasites such as Trichinella spiralis which can cause trichinosis. Parasites are more common in game meat that has not been frozen to kill parasites
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Higher fat content than farm-raised meats. Game meat is leaner but higher in saturated fats which can increase risk of heart disease if consumed in large amounts
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Potential exposure to toxins if animal was sick or ingested poisonous plants. Cooking game meat thoroughly reduces this risk
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Potential risk of contracting diseases transmissible from animals to humans such as tularemia if the animal was infected
Additional Information
Game meat, specifically buffalo, is a highly nutritious food product that offers several health benefits. It is known for its lean nature, rich flavor, and unique taste. When consumed raw, it provides additional advantages as it retains its natural enzymes and nutrients that may be lost during cooking. However, there are also potential risks associated with consuming raw meat, including the presence of harmful bacteria.
Buffalo meat is a great source of high-quality protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting immune function, and producing enzymes and hormones. Compared to domesticated meats, game meat like buffalo tends to be leaner, meaning it has lower fat content. This makes it an excellent choice for individuals aiming to maintain a healthy weight or reduce their fat intake. The lower fat content also contributes to a lower calorie count, making buffalo meat a favorable option for those watching their calorie intake.
In terms of micronutrients, buffalo meat is a rich source of essential vitamins and minerals. It is particularly high in iron, a vital mineral that plays a crucial role in oxygen transport, energy production, and maintaining a healthy immune system. Iron from animal sources, such as buffalo meat, is more readily absorbed by the body compared to plant-based iron sources. Therefore, including buffalo meat in the diet can be beneficial for individuals at risk of iron deficiency or anemia.
Additionally, buffalo meat contains an array of B-vitamins, including vitamin B12, which is essential for nerve function, DNA synthesis, and the production of red blood cells. Vitamin B12 is primarily found in animal-based foods, making buffalo meat an excellent choice for individuals following a vegetarian or vegan diet who may have difficulty obtaining sufficient amounts of this vitamin.
When consumed raw, buffalo meat retains its natural enzymes, which can aid in digestion. These enzymes assist in breaking down proteins, making it easier for the body to absorb and utilize the nutrients present in the meat. Moreover, raw buffalo meat is not subjected to high temperatures that can potentially degrade heat-sensitive vitamins and enzymes.
However, it is essential to note that consuming raw meat, including buffalo meat, carries certain risks. Raw meat may contain harmful bacteria such as Salmonella, E. coli, or Campylobacter, which can cause foodborne illnesses. These bacteria can be effectively eliminated by cooking the meat to the appropriate temperature, ensuring its safety for consumption.
To minimize the risks associated with consuming raw buffalo meat, it is crucial to source it from reputable suppliers who follow strict hygiene and safety standards. Proper handling, storage, and preparation techniques should also be followed, including keeping the meat refrigerated, separate from other foods, and consuming it within a specified time frame.
In conclusion, game meat, specifically buffalo, provides numerous nutritional benefits when consumed raw. It is a rich source of high-quality protein, iron, and B-vitamins. The lean nature of buffalo meat makes it a favorable choice for individuals aiming for weight management. However, it is important to be aware of the potential risks associated with consuming raw meat and to follow proper food safety practices to ensure its consumption is safe.