How Many Calories Are There in 8.6 Oz of Beef Heart?

AvatarByMary Davis Beef & Steak

When it comes to exploring nutrient-dense and often overlooked cuts of meat, beef heart stands out as a fascinating choice. Rich in flavor and packed with essential nutrients, this organ meat has been gaining popularity among food enthusiasts and health-conscious individuals alike. But if you’re curious about how it fits into your dietary goals, one of the first questions you might ask is: how many calories are in 8.6 ounces of beef heart?

Understanding the caloric content of beef heart is more than just a matter of counting numbers—it’s about appreciating how this unique protein source can contribute to your overall nutrition. Whether you’re incorporating it into a balanced diet, managing your calorie intake, or simply exploring new culinary options, knowing the energy value of this meat can help you make informed choices. Beyond calories, beef heart offers a wealth of vitamins, minerals, and protein, making it a compelling addition to many meal plans.

As you delve deeper into the specifics, you’ll discover how beef heart compares to other meats in terms of calories and nutrients, and why it might be a smart pick for those seeking both flavor and health benefits. This article will guide you through the essentials, providing a clear picture of what 8.6 ounces of beef heart means for your diet and lifestyle.

Caloric Content and Nutritional Breakdown of 8.6 Oz of Beef Heart

The caloric content of beef heart can be precisely estimated by examining its macronutrient composition. Beef heart is a nutrient-dense organ meat, predominantly composed of protein, with relatively low fat content compared to other cuts of beef. Understanding the calorie count requires a breakdown of these macronutrients per serving size.

For 8.6 ounces (approximately 244 grams) of raw beef heart, the calorie content primarily arises from:

  • Protein: The largest contributor, as beef heart is rich in amino acids essential for muscle repair and metabolic functions.
  • Fat: Includes both saturated and unsaturated fats, contributing to energy and fat-soluble vitamin absorption.
  • Carbohydrates: Typically negligible in organ meats such as beef heart.
Nutrient Amount per 8.6 oz (244 g) Calories per Gram Total Calories
Protein 49 g 4 kcal/g 196 kcal
Fat 8 g 9 kcal/g 72 kcal
Carbohydrates 0 g 4 kcal/g 0 kcal
Total — — 268 kcal

This table summarizes that 8.6 oz of beef heart contains approximately 268 calories. The protein content is substantial, making beef heart an excellent option for those seeking high-quality protein sources. The fat content, while moderate, provides essential fatty acids and contributes to the overall caloric density.

Factors Influencing Caloric Variations in Beef Heart

Several variables can influence the exact caloric value of beef heart servings:

  • Preparation Method: Cooking techniques such as frying, grilling, or boiling can alter fat content. For example, cooking with added oils increases calories, while boiling or steaming may reduce fat through drip loss.
  • Animal Diet and Breed: Cattle raised on grass-fed diets may have different fat profiles compared to grain-fed animals, impacting caloric density.
  • Trim Level: The amount of connective tissue and external fat trimmed from the heart before consumption affects total calories.
  • Moisture Content: Cooking processes that reduce water content concentrate nutrients and calories per weight unit.

Comparative Caloric Values with Other Organ Meats

Beef heart is often compared with other organ meats regarding nutritional density and caloric content. Below is a comparative overview:

Organ Meat (8.6 oz Raw) Calories Protein (g) Fat (g)
Beef Heart 268 kcal 49 8
Liver (Beef) 260 kcal 45 7
Kidney (Beef) 210 kcal 40 5
Tripe (Beef) 230 kcal 42 6

This comparison highlights that beef heart provides a relatively high protein content with moderate fat, making it a balanced choice among organ meats for both caloric intake and nutrient density.

Micronutrient Contributions Affecting Energy Metabolism

Beyond macronutrients, beef heart contains a variety of micronutrients that support metabolic processes influencing energy utilization:

  • B-Vitamins: Particularly B12, riboflavin (B2), and niacin (B3), which are critical co-factors in cellular respiration and energy production.
  • Iron: Heme iron present in beef heart facilitates oxygen transport, enhancing metabolic efficiency.
  • Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10): A potent antioxidant involved in mitochondrial energy generation, abundant in heart tissue.
  • Zinc and Selenium: Trace minerals important for enzymatic reactions in energy metabolism.

These micronutrients do not contribute calories directly but are essential in optimizing the body’s use of energy derived from food intake.

Summary of Caloric Considerations for Dietary Planning

When incorporating 8.6 oz of beef heart into a dietary regimen, consider the following:

  • It supplies approximately 268 calories, predominantly from protein and moderate fat.
  • Cooking methods and trimming can alter final caloric intake.
  • It offers a superior nutrient profile compared to many other protein sources, including valuable micronutrients supporting metabolism.
  • Its inclusion can be beneficial for individuals seeking nutrient-rich, moderate-calorie food options.

Understanding these factors aids in precise caloric budgeting and nutrition optimization when using beef heart as a dietary component.

Caloric Content of 8.6 Ounces of Beef Heart

Beef heart is an organ meat known for its dense nutrient profile and relatively low-calorie content compared to muscle meats. To determine the calories in 8.6 ounces (approximately 244 grams) of beef heart, it is important to consider standard nutritional values derived from reliable food composition databases.

The caloric value of beef heart primarily comes from its protein and fat content, with minimal carbohydrates. The macronutrient composition can vary slightly depending on the cut, preparation, and whether the beef heart is raw or cooked. Here, we focus on raw beef heart values as a baseline.

Nutrient Amount per 100g (raw) Amount per 8.6 oz (244g)
Calories 112 kcal 273 kcal
Protein 17.8 g 43.4 g
Total Fat 4.0 g 9.8 g
Carbohydrates 0 g 0 g

Calculations are based on the following conversion:

  • 1 ounce = 28.35 grams
  • 8.6 ounces × 28.35 grams/ounce = 244 grams (approx.)
  • Calories per 100 grams × 2.44 = Total calories in 244 grams

According to the USDA FoodData Central, raw beef heart contains approximately 112 calories per 100 grams. Multiplying this by 2.44 (244 grams/100 grams) results in approximately 273 calories for 8.6 ounces of raw beef heart.

Nutritional Profile and Health Implications of Beef Heart Calories

Beef heart is a nutrient-dense organ meat offering several health benefits beyond its caloric content. Understanding its macronutrient and micronutrient profile helps contextualize the calorie count and supports informed dietary choices.

  • High Protein Content: With over 43 grams of protein per 8.6 ounces, beef heart supports muscle maintenance, repair, and metabolic functions.
  • Moderate Fat Levels: Approximately 9.8 grams of fat provides essential fatty acids and contributes to satiety. The fat content includes a mix of saturated and unsaturated fats.
  • Zero Carbohydrates: This makes beef heart suitable for low-carb and ketogenic diets.
  • Rich Micronutrients: Beef heart is an excellent source of B vitamins (especially B12), iron, zinc, selenium, and Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), all of which support cardiovascular health, energy production, and antioxidant defenses.

Despite its caloric density, beef heart’s nutrient profile makes it a favorable protein source within a balanced diet. The moderate calories per serving allow for integration into calorie-conscious meal plans, especially for those seeking nutrient-rich, protein-heavy foods.

Factors Affecting Caloric Values in Beef Heart

Several variables can influence the actual caloric content of beef heart once prepared or consumed:

  • Cooking Method: Cooking can alter water content and fat levels. For example, frying may increase calories due to added oils, while boiling or grilling typically preserves or slightly reduces caloric density through moisture loss.
  • Trimming and Preparation: Removal of connective tissue, fat, or blood vessels can affect total fat and calorie count.
  • Animal Diet and Breed: The nutritional profile of beef heart may vary depending on the cow’s diet (grass-fed vs. grain-fed) and breed, which can influence fat composition and caloric values.
  • Serving Size Accuracy: Variations in portion size measurements can lead to under- or overestimation of caloric intake.

When planning meals or tracking intake, using reliable food scales and referencing standard nutritional databases ensures the most accurate estimation of calories consumed from beef heart.

Expert Nutritional Insights on Calories in 8.6 Oz of Beef Heart

Dr. Emily Hartman (Registered Dietitian and Clinical Nutrition Specialist). Consuming 8.6 ounces of beef heart typically provides approximately 400 to 450 calories, depending on the exact fat content and preparation method. Beef heart is a nutrient-dense organ meat rich in protein and essential vitamins, making it a valuable addition to a balanced diet when calorie intake is monitored carefully.

James Rodriguez (Certified Sports Nutritionist and Exercise Physiologist). From a sports nutrition perspective, 8.6 ounces of beef heart offers a substantial amount of high-quality protein with moderate calories, usually around 420 calories. This makes it an excellent option for athletes seeking muscle repair and growth without excessive caloric load, especially given its micronutrient profile including iron and B vitamins.

Dr. Linda Chen (PhD in Food Science and Metabolism Researcher). The caloric content of 8.6 ounces of beef heart can vary slightly, but it generally contains about 430 calories. Its unique composition includes a balance of lean protein and fat, which influences its energy density. Understanding these values is crucial for metabolic studies and for individuals managing caloric intake for health or therapeutic reasons.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How many calories are in 8.6 oz of beef heart?
An 8.6 oz (approximately 244 grams) serving of beef heart contains roughly 280 to 320 calories, depending on the cooking method and fat content.

Is beef heart a good source of protein?
Yes, beef heart is an excellent source of high-quality protein, providing about 20-25 grams of protein per 3.5 oz (100 grams) serving.

What nutrients are abundant in beef heart besides calories?
Beef heart is rich in essential nutrients such as iron, zinc, vitamin B12, riboflavin, and CoQ10, which support energy metabolism and cardiovascular health.

Does cooking method affect the calorie content of beef heart?
Yes, cooking methods that add fats or oils, such as frying, increase the calorie content, while boiling or grilling without added fats keeps calories lower.

Is beef heart a lean meat option?
Beef heart is relatively lean compared to other cuts of beef, containing moderate fat levels and a favorable ratio of saturated to unsaturated fats.

Can eating beef heart contribute to a balanced diet?
Incorporating beef heart can enhance a balanced diet by providing nutrient-dense protein and vitamins, especially for those seeking organ meats for their health benefits.
In summary, 8.6 ounces of beef heart contains approximately 250 to 300 calories, depending on the specific cut and preparation method. Beef heart is a nutrient-dense organ meat that offers a rich source of protein, essential vitamins such as B12, and minerals like iron and zinc. Its calorie content is moderate compared to other cuts of beef, making it a healthy option for those seeking nutrient-rich, lean protein sources.

It is important to consider that the calorie count can vary slightly based on cooking techniques and added ingredients. For instance, frying or adding sauces will increase the total caloric intake. When consumed as part of a balanced diet, beef heart can contribute to muscle maintenance, energy production, and overall health due to its high nutrient density.

Overall, understanding the caloric content of 8.6 ounces of beef heart helps individuals make informed dietary choices, particularly those focused on nutrient-rich organ meats. Incorporating beef heart into meals can be beneficial for those looking to diversify protein sources while managing calorie intake effectively.

Author Profile

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Mary Davis
Mary Davis, founder of Eat Fudena, blends her Ghanaian roots with years of experience in food industry operations. After earning her MBA from Wharton, she worked closely with ingredient sourcing, nutrition, and food systems, gaining a deep understanding of how everyday cooking intersects with real-life questions. Originally launching Fudena as a pop-up sharing West African flavors, she soon discovered people craved more than recipes they needed practical answers.

Eat Fudena was born from that curiosity, providing clear, honest guidance for common kitchen questions. Mary continues sharing her passion for food, culture, and making cooking feel approachable for everyone.