Broaden your protein horizons with some of these tasty alternatives…

Chicken and beef. When looking for foods high in protein both are accepted as the norm. Prepared correctly each one has its nutritional value to help you put on mass and bulk. But they aren’t the end all be all sources of animal protein. Are you tired of chicken, salmon, and beef over and over? Check out the list below for some unique alternatives and mix up that flavor pallet.
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Ostrich

A delicacy in the United States, the Ostrich is one of the fastest animals on the planet. This makes their meat lean and lower in fat content. The Ostrich is said to have more protein than steak, just the kind of nutritional value that every bodybuilder needs.

Protein = 5.7 grams per ounce

Emu

Like the Ostrich, this flightless bird has less fat than the usual meat selections and is extremely high in protein. The oil derived from it’s fat contains many nutrients as well and is widely considered to be the best meat based protein source for athletes. The only draw back is that average poundage of meat that can be taken from the bird is a mere 30 pounds compared to a cow’s 550 pounds.

Protein = 8 grams per ounce

Bison

The meat of a bison is much leaner when compared to beef and contains less saturated fats. The nutrients within bison include; zinc, iron, vitamin b6, selenium, and niacin to name a few – all considerably healthy and helpful to any athlete. For more protein, leaner meat, and less saturated fats, bison meat is the way to go.

Protein = 5.9 grams per ounce

Venison

A red meat often compared to beef, venison or deer meat is considered by some to be the ultimate red meat. Its source of protein is one thing, but many believe venison to have a better taste than beef. Like some of the other animals on this list, it’s a bit pricier than what you’d find in most supermarkets, but ultimately it’s a healthier choice than cow meat.

Protein = 7.5 grams per ounce

Elk

A bit hard to find and pricey to boot, the health benefits to elk may be well worth spending a pretty penny or two. Once you get over the price you’ll find that elk’s nutritional values; higher protein content than chicken or beef, low sodium and vitamin b12, makes this a great meat alternative.

Protein = 6.5 grams per ounce

Goat

Having less calories than both beef and chicken, goat is yet another great meat alternative. It’s particularly low fat content makes it a bit more of a chore to prepare for a meal. Cooking it on a low heat will preserve it’s juiciness and flavor. Though it has comparable protein to beef, it’s low saturated fat content makes it a better choice for the athlete looking for leaner protein.

Protein = 5.8 grams per ounce

What are your favorite meat based proteins? Let us know in the comments below and follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

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Cover photo courtesy of The Hit List