Beef Suet: Nutritional Profile and Ingredient Information
Beef suet, a raw animal by-product derived primarily from the fat surrounding the kidneys and loins of cattle, is a highly concentrated source of energy and fat. Used in various culinary applications, particularly in traditional British and European dishes such as mince pies, suet puddings, and savory pies, this fat plays an essential role in giving richness and moisture to both sweet and savory foods.
Below is the detailed nutritional breakdown and key characteristics of beef suet per 100 grams:
Nutritional Breakdown (per 100g)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Energy | 854 kcal |
| Protein | 1.5 g |
| Fat | 94.0 g |
| Saturated Fat | 52.3 g |
| Carbohydrates | 0.0 g |
| Fiber | 0.0 g |
| Sugar | 0.0 g |
| Calcium | 2.0 mg |
| Iron | 0.17 mg |
| Magnesium | 1.0 mg |
| Phosphorus | 15.0 mg |
| Potassium | 16.0 mg |
| Sodium | 7.0 mg |
| Zinc | 0.22 mg |
| Copper | 0.007 mg |
| Manganese | 0.001 mg |
| Selenium | 0.2 mcg |
| Vitamin C | 0.0 mg |
| Thiamin (B1) | 0.007 mg |
| Riboflavin (B2) | 0.013 mg |
| Niacin (B3) | 0.259 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.03 mg |
| Folate (B9) | 1.0 mcg |
| Vitamin B12 | 0.27 mcg |
| Vitamin A | 0.0 mcg |
| Vitamin E | 1.5 mg |
| Vitamin D2 | 0.0 mcg |
Key Nutritional Insights:
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High in Fat: Beef suet is primarily composed of fat (94g per 100g), with a substantial portion of it being saturated fat (52.3g). This makes it a very energy-dense ingredient, providing 854 kcal per 100g. Due to its high fat content, suet is used sparingly in many recipes.
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Minimal Carbohydrates: There are no significant carbohydrates or sugars in beef suet, making it suitable for ketogenic or low-carb diets where fat is the primary energy source.
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Micronutrients: Although low in vitamins like Vitamin C and A, beef suet does contain small amounts of essential minerals, including calcium, iron, phosphorus, and potassium. The inclusion of zinc and selenium, albeit in small amounts, contributes to its trace mineral profile.
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Protein Content: With only 1.5g of protein per 100g, beef suet is not a significant source of protein, and it is primarily valued for its high-fat content.
Allergen Information:
Beef suet is an animal-based product, so individuals with allergies or sensitivities to beef or other animal products should avoid it. As with any animal fat, cross-contamination with allergens could also occur during processing, depending on the manufacturer.
Dietary Considerations:
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Suitable for Keto and Low-Carb Diets: Due to its high-fat, zero-carb content, beef suet can be incorporated into ketogenic and low-carb diets. It provides a concentrated source of energy, particularly beneficial for those requiring higher fat intake.
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Not Suitable for Vegetarian or Vegan Diets: Being a meat-derived by-product, beef suet is unsuitable for individuals following vegetarian, vegan, or plant-based diets.
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Paleo-Friendly: For those adhering to a paleo diet, beef suet may be acceptable as it is a natural animal fat, although its high saturated fat content should be consumed in moderation.
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Health Considerations: While beef suet can be part of a balanced diet in small amounts, it is important to be mindful of its high saturated fat content, which may contribute to raised cholesterol levels if consumed excessively. It’s best to use suet sparingly and balance it with other sources of fat and nutrients.
Culinary Uses and Tips:
Beef suet is most commonly used in traditional recipes such as suet puddings, mince pies, and steak and kidney pies, where its rich, fatty texture helps bind ingredients together while providing moisture. Suet can also be rendered down into clarified fat, which is used for frying and cooking. It is often a key ingredient in recipes that require a firm, crumbly texture, like dumplings or crusts, due to its ability to solidify when cooled.
When working with beef suet in recipes, it’s important to remember that its high-fat content means that even small amounts can significantly influence the final dish’s texture and calorie count. If you’re substituting suet for other fats in recipes, be sure to adjust the proportions to maintain the dish’s integrity.
Conclusion:
Beef suet is a highly calorie-dense, fat-rich ingredient that adds significant flavor and texture to traditional dishes. While it is a staple in many classic recipes, it should be used with care, considering its high saturated fat content. As with all animal fats, it’s best consumed in moderation, and it’s ideal for those seeking a high-fat, low-carb culinary ingredient. Whether you’re preparing savory pies or rich puddings, beef suet brings an unmistakable richness that’s hard to replicate with plant-based fats.
