
Pemmican is a traditional, energy-dense survival food originating from Indigenous peoples of North America. It's a concentrated mixture of dried, pulverized lean meat (often bison, elk, or deer) and rendered fat (tallow), sometimes with added berries or other natural ingredients. The name 'mixed into pemmican' refers to this core process of combining these key components.
Pemmican is an extremely high-fat and high-protein food with virtually zero carbohydrates, designed for long-term energy and sustenance. A typical serving provides a massive calorie load, primarily from fat, along with key nutrients like iron, zinc, and B vitamins from the meat.
| Calories | 310 kcal |
| Protein | 17 g |
| Carbs | 0 g |
| Fat | 26 g |
| Fiber | 0 g |
| Sugar | 0 g |
| Sodium | 45 mg |
| Iron | 2.5 mg |
| Zinc | 3.8 mg |
| Niacin (B3) | 4.2 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 1.8 mcg |
| Phosphorus | 180 mg |
| Selenium | 14 mcg |
| Potassium | 220 mg |
| Magnesium | 18 mg |
Per 1 bar (57 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
Pemmican is a marvel of pre-industrial food preservation, capable of lasting for years without refrigeration. Its near-zero moisture and high-fat content create an environment where bacteria cannot thrive, making it a crucial food for long expeditions, winter survival, and the fur trade.