Super source
Protein
22.0 g · 44% DV target
A lean and flavorful wild bird with a firm texture and subtle gaminess, pheasant serves as a nutrient-dense, high-protein alternative to domestic poultry.
Pheasant is a high-protein, lean alternative to conventional meats like beef or pork, characterized by a high biological value (a measure of how efficiently the body uses protein) .2810
The meat is notably low in fat, with breast meat containing as little as 0.8% to 1.3% intramuscular fat, making it a lower-calorie option compared to many other poultry and red meat sources .18
The protein profile is rich in essential amino acids, particularly lysine and leucine (which are critical for muscle repair and protein synthesis), while the most abundant non-essential amino acids are glutamic and aspartic acids .1
Dietary guidelines categorize pheasant as a "noble food" due to its nutrient density, and it is typically recommended as part of a healthy eating pattern when consumed in standard 100g portions .8
Petal shape shows the nine FoodCompass domains, including nutrient density, processing, satiety, fats, and phytochemicals.
22.0 g · 44% DV target
0.75 g · Top 20% of meat & poultry
63.0 μg · 7% DV target
0.90 μg · 5% DV target
6.59 mg · 41% DV target
0.70 mg · 41% DV target
Seasonality has not been estimated for this ingredient yet.
Keep in the coldest part of the fridge
Wrap tightly to prevent freezer burn
Wild-shot game has a lower carbon footprint than farmed meat, though lead shot usage is a consideration.
Pheasants were originally introduced to Europe from Asia by the Romans, who prized them as a luxury food source for banquets.