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10 Best Meats for Keto and Carnivore Diets

Post by Jaz Konig

Apr 25 2025

The keto and carnivore diets have taken the health and fitness world by storm, with many choosing these low-carb, high-protein lifestyles to achieve their fitness goals. But with so many options available, how do you know which meats are best suited for these diets?

In this article, we’ll guide you through the best meats for keto and the best meats for carnivore diet, highlighting the top options that will fuel your body, promote fat loss, and support muscle growth.

Whether you're a keto newbie or a carnivore pro, this list will help you make the best choices for your diet.

What is the Keto Diet?

The keto diet is a high-fat, moderate-protein, and low-carbohydrate eating plan designed to put your body into a state of ketosis. In ketosis, your body burns fat for fuel instead of carbohydrates, which can lead to weight loss and improved energy levels.

The primary focus is on foods like meat, fish, eggs, dairy, and low-carb vegetables, while significantly reducing or eliminating grains, sugars, and starchy vegetables.

This approach helps people achieve their goals of fat loss, enhanced mental clarity, and better overall health.

What is the Carnivore Diet?

The carnivore diet is a more extreme version of the keto diet, focusing solely on animal-based foods. It eliminates all plant-based foods, with the primary sources of nutrition coming from meat, fish, eggs, and animal fats.

The goal of the carnivore diet is to provide the body with high-quality protein and fats while completely avoiding carbohydrates. Advocates believe this diet can promote fat loss, improve digestion, and offer anti-inflammatory benefits.

It’s a strict regimen that some people follow for its purported health benefits, including muscle gain and improved mood.

Best Meats for Keto and Carnivore Diets

When choosing meats for the keto and carnivore diets, focusing on nutrient-dense options that support your goals of fat loss, muscle gain, and overall well-being is essential. The following meats are low in carbs and packed with healthy fats and high-quality protein.

Whether you're following a keto or carnivore plan, these meats will fuel your body and help you thrive:

1. Ribeye Steak

Ribeye steak is a perfect choice for both the keto and carnivore diets. Rich in healthy fats and protein, it provides the energy needed to stay in ketosis or maintain the strictness of a carnivore diet.

The high-fat content keeps you feeling satisfied, and the marbling enhances the steak’s flavour and texture.

It's a great source of essential nutrients like iron, zinc, and B vitamins, helping to support muscle function and energy levels.

2. Ground Beef

Ground beef is another excellent option for both diets. It's versatile, affordable, and packed with protein and fat. Opt for higher-fat versions like 80/20 or 70/30 ground beef to maximise fat intake, which is crucial for staying in ketosis.

It’s nutrient-dense, offering essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin B12, zinc, and iron, which support overall health and recovery.

Ground beef can be used in a variety of keto and carnivore-friendly dishes like burgers or meatballs.

3. Pork Belly

Pork belly is a fatty, flavourful cut that’s ideal for both the keto and carnivore diets. It’s packed with monounsaturated fats, which support heart health while providing the energy your body needs on a low-carb diet.

Pork belly is also a good source of protein, along with essential nutrients like thiamine, phosphorus, and selenium, which contribute to overall well-being.

Slow-roasting or pan-frying pork belly ensures a crispy texture, making it a delicious and satisfying meal choice.

4. Beef Brisket

Beef brisket is a top choice for keto and carnivore diets due to its high fat and protein content.

Its long cooking time makes it incredibly tender and full of flavor, perfectly fitting the principles of these low-carb diets.

With around 450 calories, 35g of fat, 25g of protein, and 0g of carbs per 100g, it's a nutrient-packed option for those looking for a satisfying, keto-friendly meal.

5. Chicken Thighs

Chicken thighs are a fantastic option for those on the keto diet. Unlike chicken breasts, they have a higher fat content, which makes them more keto-friendly.

The fat in chicken thighs helps you maintain your energy levels throughout the day, while the protein helps with muscle repair and growth.

They’re also rich in important vitamins like niacin (vitamin B3) and selenium, which support metabolism and immune function. Roasted or pan-fried, they’re both tasty and satisfying.

6. Lamb Chops

Lamb chops are a premium choice for anyone on the keto or carnivore diet. They are rich in protein and healthy fats, particularly omega-3 fatty acids, which support brain function and reduce inflammation.

Lamb also provides a good dose of iron and zinc, which are essential for maintaining a strong immune system and healthy red blood cells.

Grilled or roasted, lamb chops deliver great flavour and texture while fitting perfectly within both diets.

7. Venison

Venison is a lean, nutrient-rich meat ideal for the carnivore diet. It’s packed with high-quality protein and low in fat, making it a great option for those following a strict meat-only regimen.

Rich in iron and vitamin B12, venison supports muscle function and energy production. It also contains omega-3 fatty acids, which promote heart health and reduce inflammation.

Venison can be grilled, stewed, or made into sausages, offering variety in your carnivore meal plan.

8. Beef Liver

Beef liver is one of the most nutrient-dense meats you can consume, making it an excellent addition to both keto and carnivore diets.

It’s packed with high-quality protein, vitamin A, vitamin B12, and iron—key nutrients for immune support, energy production, and cell regeneration.

Though strong in flavour, beef liver can be pan-fried or made into pâté, offering a delicious and healthy meal choice that aligns with both dietary plans.

9. Duck Breast

Duck breast is a rich, fatty meat that’s perfect for the keto and carnivore diets. Its high-fat content helps to maintain ketosis, while the protein supports muscle growth and repair.

Duck breast is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which promote brain function and reduce inflammation.

With its rich flavour and tender texture, duck breast is a versatile option that can be roasted, grilled, or pan-seared for a satisfying meal.

10. King Salmon

Salmon is an exceptional choice for those on the keto diet due to its high omega-3 fatty acid content, which is beneficial for heart health and inflammation reduction.

It’s also packed with protein, making it an excellent source of fuel for muscle maintenance and growth. Rich in vitamins D and B12, salmon helps support bone health and immune function.

Grilled, baked, or smoked, it’s a delicious and nutritious option that complements a low-carb, high-fat lifestyle.

The Key Nutritional Requirements of the Keto and Carnivore Diets

To succeed on the keto and carnivore diets, it's essential to understand their unique nutritional needs. Here’s a breakdown of what your body requires to thrive on these plans:

High in Healthy Fats: Both diets rely on fats as the primary source of energy. Keto typically requires 70-75% of daily calories from fats, while the carnivore diet focuses on animal fats.
Moderate Protein Intake: Protein is essential for muscle repair and maintenance. Keto includes moderate protein (20-25% of daily intake), while the carnivore diet prioritises protein with no carb-based foods.
Low to No Carbohydrates: Keto limits carbs to 20-50 grams per day, whereas the carnivore diet eliminates carbs entirely, focusing only on animal products.
Micronutrient Density: Both diets need to ensure sufficient intake of vitamins and minerals, especially from animal products on the carnivore diet, and low-carb vegetables on the keto diet.
Electrolyte Balance: Low-carb diets can cause an imbalance in electrolytes. Ensuring enough sodium, potassium, and magnesium is crucial for preventing fatigue and cramps.

How to Incorporate These Meats Into Your Diet

Now that you know which meats are best for the keto and carnivore diets, it's time to get creative with how you incorporate them into your daily meals. Here are some simple ways to enjoy these nutrient-dense options:

Grilled or Pan-Fried: Grilling or pan-frying meats like ribeye steak, lamb chops, and duck breast adds rich flavour and keeps them juicy. Serve with keto-friendly sides like leafy greens or avocado.
Ground Meat Bowls: Use ground beef or pork belly to make keto bowls. Combine with low-carb vegetables, olive oil, and avocado for a satisfying meal.
Slow Cooker or Roasting: Slow-cook venison or pork belly for tender, fall-apart texture. Roasting chicken thighs or turkey ensures crispy skin while keeping the meat juicy inside.
Meat-Based Stews and Soups: Add beef liver, ground beef, or turkey to make hearty stews and soups. These meals can be packed with vegetables and herbs for added flavour and nutrition.
Meat Snacks: Prepare jerky or sausages from high-quality meats like venison or beef for easy, on-the-go snacks that keep you full between meals.
Seafood Variations: Include salmon in your diet by baking or grilling it with a simple seasoning, or use it in salads and keto-friendly wraps.

Conclusion

Incorporating these best meats for keto and carnivore diets will not only help you achieve your dietary goals but also provide you with a variety of delicious, nutrient-packed meals. Ready to start your journey? Visit Carnivore Society for premium, high-quality meats tailored to your dietary needs. Shop now and fuel your body with the best protein and fats for optimal health and wellness!