The Carnivore Diet Food List and Resources
What You Can Eat on the Carnivore Diet: A Complete Food List
The Carnivore Diet is based on a simple, straightforward principle: eat only animal-based foods.
As someone who has tried every diet and way of eating in the book, the simplicity of the Carnivore Diet is what initially drew me to it- and the promise of increased energy and healing!
If you’re curious about what you can eat on the Carnivore Diet, here’s a breakdown of the best foods, plus a complete food list to guide you.
And if you’re looking for expert resources on The Carnivore Diet, and want to learn more about the benefits of this way of eating, click here.
What You Can Eat on the Carnivore Diet
1. Beef
Beef is the staple of the Carnivore Diet due to its high-quality protein and fat content. It’s rich in essential nutrients like iron, B12, and omega-3s. Go for fattier cuts to increase your intake of healthy fats.
• Ribeye
• Sirloin
• Ground beef (80/20 or higher fat content)
• New York strip
• Filet mignon
• Beef liver (and other organ meats like heart, kidney, or tongue)
• Brisket (our personal favorite when you’re looking for budget friendly options!)
• Beef ribs
2. Pork
Pork is another option, not as highly recommended as beef but great for getting a different flavor profile and plenty of fat, especially from cuts like pork belly.
• Bacon (sugar-free or nitrate-free if possible)
• Pork chops
• Pork belly
• Ground pork
• Sausage (look for versions with no added sugars or fillers)
• Ham (unsweetened or minimally processed)
• Pork ribs
3. Lamb
Lamb is nutrient-dense and fatty, making it perfect for the Carnivore Diet.
• Lamb chops
• Ground lamb
• Lamb shoulder
• Lamb ribs
• Lamb liver or heart
4. Poultry
While poultry tends to be leaner, it still has a place in the diet. Opt for fattier cuts like thighs or drumsticks, and DO eat the skin for added fat.
• Chicken thighs, wings, or drumsticks
• Chicken liver
• Duck (whole or breast with skin)
• Turkey (thighs or drumsticks are better than breast for fat content)
5. Seafood
Seafood adds variety and important nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, iodine, and selenium. Fatty fish are especially encouraged, and look for wild-caught options.
• Salmon
• Sardines
• Mackerel
• Tuna (preferably fresh over canned)
• Shrimp
• Oysters
• Crab
• Lobster
6. Eggs
Eggs are versatile, nutritious, and full of protein and healthy fats. They are a key component of many carnivore meals.
• Whole eggs (preferably pasture-raised or organic)
• Duck eggs
• Quail eggs
• Omelets or scrambled eggs with butter
7. Dairy (if tolerated)
Some carnivores include dairy, while others find they need to limit it due to lactose intolerance or digestive issues. Full-fat, low-carb dairy options are best.
• Butter (grass-fed if possible)
• Heavy cream
• Cheese (hard cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or parmesan)
• Ghee (clarified butter)
• Full-fat sour cream
• Cream cheese
• Raw Kefir
8. Organ Meats
Organ meats are incredibly nutrient-dense, often called “nature’s multivitamin.” Even if you’re new to organ meats, incorporating them once or twice a week is a great way to get additional vitamins and minerals.
• Liver (beef, chicken, lamb)
• Kidney
• Heart
• Spleen
• Tongue
• Bone marrow
9. Fats
Fats are essential on the Carnivore Diet, not only for energy but also for flavor and satiety.
• Tallow (beef fat)
• Lard (pork fat)
• Butter or ghee
• Duck fat
• Bacon grease
Drinks on the Carnivore Diet
While the focus is on animal-based foods, hydration is still important. Here are the drinks that align with the diet:
• Water (plain or mineral water)
• Bone broth (homemade or quality store-bought)
• Coffee (black, but some include butter or heavy cream)
• Tea (unsweetened, though many carnivores avoid tea due to plant-based ingredients)
Foods to Avoid on the Carnivore Diet
The Carnivore Diet eliminates all plant-based foods, including:
• Fruits and vegetables
• Grains (wheat, rice, oats, etc.)
• Legumes (beans, lentils, peanuts)
• Processed foods with additives, sugars, or fillers
• Sugars and sweeteners (stevia, monk fruit, etc.)
• Seed oils (vegetable oil, canola oil)
Sample Carnivore Diet Food List Ideas:
• Simple Carnivore Diet Snacks
• 10 Easy Carnivore Breakfast Ideas
Carnivore Diet Resources:
Here is a list of our favorite carnivore diet resources; medical doctors who have done years of research on this topic, people who have lived the lifestyle for over a decade, and nutritionists who share awesome recipes and meal planning tips.
The Carnivore Cookbook (By Maria Emmerich)
Steak and Butter Gal (YouTube)
How To Carnivore (Diet Meal Plan)
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