How Much Nutrition and Protein is in 1 lb of Ground Bison?
If you’re paying attention to what’s in your food, you’ve probably asked: How much protein is in 1lb of ground bison? What’s the nutrition breakdown? You’re not alone—those are two of the most common questions we get.
Bison is one of the most nutrient-dense red meats available, offering high protein, low fat, and a cleaner label than most beef products. But the numbers do change depending on the fat content—most commonly 85/15 and 90/10 blends.
TL;DR
- 1lb of 90/10 ground bison has about 88g of protein, 20g of fat, and around 640 calories.
- 1lb of 85/15 ground bison has about 86g of protein, 30g of fat, and around 720–750 calories.
- Leaner than 90/10 (like 93/7) can be too dry, making it hard to handle and difficult to cook.
What Do Those Fat Ratios Mean?
When you see “90/10” or “85/15” on a package of ground bison, that refers to the ratio of lean meat to fat by weight:
- 90/10 = 90% lean, 10% fat
- 85/15 = 85% lean, 15% fat
The leaner the meat, the less fat—and fewer calories. But there’s a trade-off: less fat means more risk of dryness when cooked and less flavor.
Ground Bison Protein in 1 Pound
| Fat Ratio | Calories (approx.) | Protein (g) | Fat (g) |
| 90/10 | ~640 | ~88 | ~20 |
| 85/15 | ~750 | ~86 | ~30 |
Note: Values based on cooked weight. Nutrition data from USDA via Nutritionix.
Why Leaner Isn’t Always Better
Going ultra-lean might sound healthier, but when it comes to bison, a little fat goes a long way.
Here’s why:
- Flavor: Fat carries flavor through the meat.
- Moisture: Keeps burgers and meatballs from drying out.
- Ease of Cooking: Slightly fattier blends hold together better.
85/15 is typically the best balance between taste and nutrition.
What About Carbs?
Ground bison is naturally low in carbohydrates. Actually it contains 0 grams of carbs per serving. That makes it an excellent choice for low-carb, keto, or paleo diets. Just be mindful of what you mix with it though—add-ins like sauces, breadcrumbs, or marinades can introduce hidden sugars and starches.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re meal prepping, watching macros, or just looking for a better red meat option, ground bison is a smart pick. Just remember—fat content impacts both nutrition and how the meat cooks and tastes.
At Black Mountain Bison, we proudly offer premium ground bison in an 85/15 blend—ideal for flavor, performance, and versatility.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Ground Bison Nutritional Information
Q: How much protein is in 1lb of ground bison?
A: About 86–88 grams, depending on the fat blend.
Q: Is ground bison healthier than beef?
A: Generally, yes. It’s leaner, higher in iron, and usually raised without added hormones.
Q: What blend is best for burgers?
A: 85/15—moist, flavorful, and holds together well without being greasy.