Epic source
Protein
25.0 g · 50% DV target
A delicate, small-framed game bird with a mild yet distinctively sweet flavour and tender texture, quail serves as a highly efficient and lean protein source.
Quail is a lean protein source that provides a high concentration of protein relative to its weight, typically containing between 20% and 28% protein depending on the cut and preparation .710
Quail meat is categorized as a nutrient-dense alternative to more common poultry, offering a similar profile of essential minerals such as phosphorus and potassium while being lower in total fat than many other domesticated birds .510
While quail meat is highly nutritious, the specific micronutrient profile—including levels of iron, selenium, and zinc—can be significantly influenced by the bird's diet and the farming system used .58
Early research into game meats suggests that quail, along with pheasant and guinea fowl, may offer a different micronutrient density compared to standard livestock, though evidence regarding its specific impact on human mineral status remains limited .5
Petal shape shows the nine FoodCompass domains, including nutrient density, processing, satiety, fats, and phytochemicals.
25.0 g · 50% DV target
14.0 g · 18% DV target
3.94 g · 20% DV target
Not a benefit — best kept low
70.0 μg · 8% DV target
0.22 mg · 18% DV target
0.30 mg · 23% 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
Quail have high feed-conversion efficiency and require significantly less land and water than larger livestock.
In ancient Egypt, quail were so abundant during their seasonal migrations that they were one of the few meats regularly consumed by both commoners and royalty.