Seal, bearded (Oogruk), meat, raw (Alaska Native)
Category: American Indian/Alaska Native Foods
Nutrition Highlights
Serving Size
Calories
110
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 | 107 (97.1%) |
| Fat | 3.6 (3.3%) |
| Total | 110 (100%) |
Serving: 100g/3.5oz [100g]
Composition
| Nutrient | Weight g (%) |
|---|---|
| Water | 70 (69.6%) |
| Protein | 27 (26.7%) |
| Ash | 3.3 (3.3%) |
| Fat | 0.4 (0.4%) |
| Total | 100 (100%) |
Serving: 100g/3.5oz [100g]
Benefits
-
High in protein, with 26 grams of protein per 3-ounce serving. Seal meat provides all essential amino acids needed for the human body
-
Rich in iron, with 3.5 mg of iron per 3-ounce serving. Iron is an important mineral that helps carry oxygen in the blood
-
A good source of selenium, with 27 micrograms of selenium per 3-ounce serving. Selenium acts as an antioxidant and supports thyroid function
-
Contains omega-3 fatty acids like EPA and DHA which have anti-inflammatory properties and support heart health
-
Low in saturated fat and calories. 3 ounces of raw seal meat has only about 100 calories and 3 grams of saturated fat
Risks
-
High in fat and calories. Eating too much can contribute to weight gain and obesity
-
May contain toxins like mercury and PCBs depending on what the seal ate. High levels can harm health
-
Raw meat carries risk of foodborne illness like salmonella poisoning if not handled or cooked properly
-
High in protein but low in carbohydrates and fiber. Not well-balanced as a regular part of the diet
-
Vitamin/mineral content depends on the seal's diet and environment. May be low or deficient in some nutrients depending on circumstances
Additional Information
Seal, bearded (Oogruk), meat, raw (Alaska Native) is a unique food product that offers several nutritional benefits, but it also carries some risks that need to be considered. Let's explore these attributes in detail.
Nutritional Benefits:
1. High Protein Content: Bearded seal meat is a rich source of high-quality protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting immune function, and producing enzymes and hormones. Consuming an adequate amount of protein is crucial for overall health and well-being.
2. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Seal meat contains significant amounts of omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). These essential fatty acids play a vital role in brain health, reducing inflammation, and supporting heart health. Omega-3s are also beneficial for maintaining healthy skin, hair, and nails.
3. Vitamin B12: Seal meat is an excellent source of vitamin B12, which is essential for the formation of red blood cells, nerve function, and DNA synthesis. Adequate intake of vitamin B12 is crucial for maintaining energy levels, promoting brain health, and preventing anemia.
4. Iron and Zinc: Seal meat is a good source of iron and zinc, two essential minerals. Iron is necessary for the production of hemoglobin, which carries oxygen throughout the body. Zinc plays a crucial role in immune function, wound healing, and DNA synthesis. Consuming seal meat can help prevent deficiencies in these essential minerals.
5. Low in Carbohydrates: For individuals following a low-carbohydrate or ketogenic diet, seal meat can be a suitable option. It is naturally low in carbohydrates, making it a good choice for those looking to control their carbohydrate intake.
Risks and Considerations:
1. Contamination: Raw seal meat carries the risk of contamination by bacteria, parasites, or viruses. It is crucial to handle and store seal meat properly to minimize the risk of foodborne illnesses. Thorough cooking or freezing can help eliminate potential pathogens.
2. Mercury Content: Like other predatory fish and marine mammals, seal meat may contain higher levels of mercury due to bioaccumulation in the food chain. Pregnant women, nursing mothers, and young children should be cautious about mercury consumption and limit their intake of seal meat.
3. Environmental Concerns: The consumption of seal meat raises ethical and environmental concerns for some individuals. The hunting and harvesting of seals should be done sustainably, respecting wildlife conservation efforts and traditional practices.
4. Allergies and Sensitivities: Some individuals may have allergies or sensitivities to seal meat. If you have a known seafood allergy or sensitivity, it is advisable to avoid consuming seal meat or consult with a healthcare professional before including it in your diet.
In conclusion, seal, bearded (Oogruk), meat, raw (Alaska Native) offers several nutritional benefits, including high protein content, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin B12, iron, and zinc. However, it is important to consider the risks associated with contamination, mercury content, environmental concerns, and individual allergies or sensitivities. As with any food product, proper handling, cooking, and sourcing are essential to ensure safety and sustainability.