Calories in Bison: Nutrition Facts & Serving Sizes
Per 1 oz (28g)
Per 100g
Source: USDA FoodData Central, SR Legacy, March 2026.
Bison is a lean game meat that contains 146 calories per 100g, making it notably leaner than conventional ground beef (215 calories per 100g). A cooked bison patty (85g) provides 124 calories, 17.2g of protein, 0.1g of carbs, and 6.1g of fat. The protein-to-calorie ratio is excellent for muscle building, with 20.2g of protein per 100g. Zinc comes in at 4.6mg per 100g and selenium at 20mcg per 100g, both important for testosterone production and immune function. Bison is also lower in cholesterol (55mg per 100g) compared to many red meats, making it a popular choice for those who want the flavor and nutrient profile of red meat with a cleaner fat profile.
Nutrition Highlights
Calories by Serving Size
| Serving | Cal | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Fiber |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 patty (cooked from 4 oz raw) (85g) | 124.1 | 17.2g | 0.1g | 6.1g | 0g |
| 1 oz (28g) | 41.5 | 5.7g | 0g | 2g | 0g |
| 100g | 146 | 20.2g | 0.1g | 7.2g | 0g |
Full Nutrition Facts (per 100g)
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 146 | 7% |
| Protein | 20.2g | 40% |
| Total Fat | 7.2g | 9% |
| Saturated Fat | 2.9g | 14% |
| Total Carbohydrates | 0.1g | |
| Dietary Fiber | 0g | |
| Sugars | 0g | |
| Sodium | 70mg | 3% |
| Cholesterol | 55mg | 18% |
Vitamins & Minerals (per 100g)
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Saturated Fat | 2.9g | 1% |
| Cholesterol | 55mg | 18% |
| Calcium | 11mg | 1% |
| Iron | 2.8mg | 16% |
| Potassium | 328mg | 7% |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.4mg | 24% |
| Vitamin B12 | 1.9mcg | 79% |
| Magnesium | 21mg | 5% |
| Phosphorus | 194mg | 16% |
| Zinc | 4.6mg | 42% |
| Selenium | 20mcg | 36% |
| Folate | 12mcg | 3% |
| Thiamin (B1) | 0.1mg | 8% |
| Riboflavin (B2) | 0.2mg | 15% |
| Niacin (B3) | 5.3mg | 33% |
% Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA reference).
Health Benefits of Bison
Bison is one of the best red meat options for fitness-focused eating. At 146 calories per 100g with 20.2g of protein, it delivers a high protein density with a lean fat profile. The 7.2g of fat per 100g is considerably lower than conventional ground beef, making it easier to hit protein targets while staying within a calorie budget.
Zinc (4.6mg per 100g) is critical for testosterone production, immune health, and protein synthesis. Bison also provides selenium (20mcg per 100g), which supports thyroid function and acts as an antioxidant to protect cells from oxidative damage after training.
The vitamin B12 content (1.9mcg per 100g) and niacin (5.3mg per 100g) support energy metabolism, making bison a solid choice for pre- or post-workout meals. With only 0.1g of carbs per 100g, it is ideal for low-carb and keto diets.
Bison is grass-fed by nature since it is a wild game animal, meaning the fat quality tends to be favorable compared to conventionally raised beef. For those who want the taste of red meat without compromising their body composition goals, bison is a practical upgrade.
Dietary Considerations
Bison is naturally gluten-free, low-carb, and keto-compatible with only 0.1g of carbs per 100g. It is not suitable for vegans or vegetarians. Bison is paleo and carnivore diet friendly. The lower saturated fat (2.9g per 100g) compared to conventional beef makes it a somewhat better choice for those monitoring saturated fat intake. It fits well into high-protein, calorie-controlled eating plans for body recomposition. Cholesterol is present at 55mg per 100g, which is relatively modest for a red meat. Bison is widely available as ground meat, steaks, and patties.
Daily Intake (100g)
100g of bison provides 7% of a 2,000-calorie diet.
Track Your Intake
See how bison fits your personal calorie and macro targets.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many calories in bison?
Bison has 146 calories per 100g. A cooked bison patty (85g) contains about 124 calories.
Is bison good for weight loss?
Yes. Bison is lower in calories and fat than regular ground beef while providing nearly the same amount of protein. The high protein content (20.2g per 100g) helps with satiety and muscle preservation during a calorie deficit.
How much protein in bison?
Bison contains 20.2g of protein per 100g. A cooked patty (85g) provides 17.2g of protein.
Is bison leaner than beef?
Yes. Bison has 7.2g of fat per 100g compared to about 15-20g for typical ground beef (80/20). It is one of the leanest red meat options available.
Is bison keto-friendly?
Absolutely. Bison contains just 0.1g of carbs per 100g, making it one of the most keto-compatible protein sources you can choose.
How does bison compare to chicken breast?
Bison has 146 calories and 20.2g protein per 100g, compared to chicken breast at 165 calories and about 31g protein per 100g. Chicken breast has more protein per calorie, but bison offers the flavor and micronutrient profile of red meat (higher zinc, iron) with a similar calorie range.