Beef Thymus (Raw) – Nutritional Information
Beef thymus, commonly known as beef sweetbreads, is a delicate and flavorful organ meat that comes from the thymus gland of the cow. It is rich in essential nutrients, offering a good balance of protein, fats, and minerals. Below is a detailed breakdown of its nutritional profile:
Nutritional Information (Per 100g Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Energy | 236 kcal |
| Protein | 12.18 g |
| Fat | 20.35 g |
| Saturated Fat | 7.01 g |
| Carbohydrates | 0.0 g |
| Fiber | 0.0 g |
| Sugar | 0.0 g |
| Calcium | 7.0 mg |
| Iron | 2.1 mg |
| Magnesium | 14 mg |
| Phosphorus | 393 mg |
| Potassium | 360 mg |
| Sodium | 96.0 mg |
| Zinc | 2.06 mg |
| Copper | 48 mcg |
| Manganese | 0.12 mg |
| Selenium | 18.1 mcg |
| Vitamin C | 34.0 mg |
| Thiamin (B1) | 0.109 mg |
| Riboflavin (B2) | 0.345 mg |
| Niacin (B3) | 3.452 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.16 mg |
| Folate | 2.0 mcg |
| Vitamin B12 | 2.13 mcg |
| Vitamin A | 0.0 mcg |
| Vitamin E | 0.0 mg |
| Vitamin D2 | 0.0 mcg |
Health Benefits
Beef thymus is a nutrient-dense food, providing a wealth of vitamins and minerals in a relatively small serving. Rich in protein, it helps support muscle repair and growth, making it an excellent addition to high-protein diets. Its high fat content, particularly saturated fat, contributes to energy needs and supports fat-soluble vitamin absorption.
Key Minerals:
- Phosphorus: This mineral is essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth, and it plays a critical role in energy production.
- Iron: Beef thymus is a good source of heme iron, which is easily absorbed by the body and helps prevent iron-deficiency anemia.
- Zinc: Vital for immune function, wound healing, and DNA synthesis, zinc is another essential nutrient found in significant amounts in beef thymus.
Vitamins:
- Vitamin C: A surprising source of Vitamin C, beef thymus provides antioxidant benefits and supports the immune system.
- B Vitamins: It contains a good amount of B vitamins, including riboflavin (B2) and niacin (B3), which are involved in energy production and metabolic processes.
Dietary Preferences & Considerations
Beef thymus, like other organ meats, may not be suitable for everyone due to dietary restrictions, such as vegetarian, vegan, or those with specific food sensitivities. However, for individuals looking to add variety and nutrient-dense options to their diet, it is an excellent choice, especially for those following higher-protein or paleo diets.
Allergen Information:
- Contains: Beef
- May Contain Traces of: Other animal products depending on processing conditions
Dietary Preferences:
- Suitable for Paleo and Ketogenic diets due to its high protein and fat content.
- Not suitable for Vegetarians or Vegans.
- Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free.
Cooking Tips & Preparation
Beef thymus is typically prepared by soaking, blanching, or marinating before cooking to reduce its strong flavor and ensure a tender texture. It can be pan-seared, grilled, or braised in stews and sauces. The organ meat is often delicately cooked to maintain its delicate texture and rich flavor, and is commonly served in gourmet or traditional dishes.
Conclusion
Beef thymus, or sweetbreads, is a nutrient-rich organ meat that provides a robust selection of vitamins, minerals, and proteins. It is an excellent choice for those seeking to incorporate more diverse and nutrient-dense foods into their meals. Its rich fat content and substantial amounts of essential nutrients make it a valuable addition to many diets, particularly for individuals looking to boost their protein intake. Whether you are preparing a gourmet dish or seeking a flavorful and nutrient-packed food, beef thymus offers both culinary and health benefits.
