Does Tripe Have Cholesterol? An In-Depth Look at Its Nutritional Profile

December 20, 2025 •

4 min read

According to the USDA, a 3-ounce serving of cooked tripe can contain around 133 milligrams of cholesterol, representing a significant portion of the recommended daily intake for some individuals. This makes understanding the nutritional profile of tripe, particularly its cholesterol content, crucial for informed dietary choices.

Quick Summary

This article examines the cholesterol content and full nutritional breakdown of tripe. It details the levels of dietary cholesterol, comparing it to other meats, and explores the broader health benefits and risks of consuming this organ meat.

Key Points

High in Cholesterol: Tripe contains a notable amount of dietary cholesterol, with a 3-ounce serving contributing a significant portion of the daily recommended intake.
Rich in Nutrients: Despite its cholesterol content, tripe is a lean source of protein and rich in essential vitamins like B12 and minerals such as selenium and zinc.
Comparatively Different: Tripe has higher cholesterol than lean meats like chicken breast but often less total fat and cholesterol than other organ meats like liver.
Moderation is Key: For those sensitive to dietary cholesterol or with heart health concerns, moderation is recommended when consuming tripe.
Healthier Preparation: To enjoy tripe healthily, use moist cooking methods like stewing or boiling and pair with vegetables to avoid adding excess fat.

Tripe, the edible lining from the stomach of ruminant animals like cows, sheep, and goats, is a staple in many cuisines worldwide. While its chewy texture and mild flavor make it adaptable to various dishes, its nutritional makeup, particularly regarding cholesterol, is a frequent topic of discussion.

The Truth About Tripe and Its Cholesterol Content

Tripe does contain a notable amount of cholesterol, an essential substance for producing hormones and vitamin D. The level of cholesterol in tripe is higher than in some other protein sources, placing it in a category of foods that requires moderation, especially for those sensitive to dietary cholesterol. For instance, a 3-ounce portion of cooked beef tripe can provide roughly 108 to 133 mg of cholesterol, depending on the source and preparation. This amount can represent a significant percentage of the daily value for cholesterol, particularly for individuals with pre-existing heart conditions who may need to limit their intake.

Nutritional Profile of Tripe Beyond Cholesterol

Despite its cholesterol content, tripe is also a powerhouse of other nutrients. It is known for being a lean protein source, supporting muscle repair and overall health. A 3-ounce serving offers about 10 grams of high-quality protein. Tripe is also an excellent source of essential vitamins and minerals, including:

Vitamin B12: Crucial for red blood cell formation and preventing anemia.
Selenium: A potent antioxidant that protects against cell damage and supports immune function.
Zinc: Important for immune function and cell division.
Other minerals: Contains notable amounts of calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and iron.
Collagen: A rich source of collagen, which is beneficial for skin, bone, and joint health.

These nutritional benefits underscore why tripe has been valued in traditional diets for centuries.

Tripe vs. Other Common Protein Sources: A Cholesterol Comparison

Understanding how tripe's cholesterol levels compare to other meats can help put its nutritional value into perspective. While tripe is high in cholesterol for an organ meat, it is often lower in total fat than many standard muscle meats.


Food Item (Approx. 3 oz)	Cholesterol (mg)	Total Fat (g)
Cooked Beef Tripe	108-133	3.4
Cooked Beef Liver	250+	6+
Cooked Chicken Breast	73	3
Cooked Salmon	49	11

Note: Nutritional values can vary based on the cut, preparation method, and specific animal.

This comparison table illustrates that while tripe has a higher cholesterol content than lean poultry or salmon, it's lower than some other organ meats, like liver. Its fat content also remains relatively low, which is a key consideration for many health-conscious consumers.

Considerations for Moderation

For most healthy individuals, dietary cholesterol has a minimal impact on overall blood cholesterol levels. The body can regulate cholesterol intake effectively. However, a segment of the population, known as "hyper-responders," is more sensitive to dietary cholesterol. For these individuals or those with existing cardiovascular disease, moderating the intake of high-cholesterol foods like tripe is a sensible precaution. Consulting a healthcare provider or a registered dietitian is always recommended if you have concerns about dietary cholesterol.

Ways to Enjoy Tripe Healthily

To incorporate tripe into a healthy diet, focus on cooking methods that don't add excessive fats. Boiling, stewing, or adding it to soups are traditional methods that produce a tender and flavorful result. Many cuisines, from Mexican menudo to Italian trippa alla fiorentina, demonstrate how tripe can be part of a balanced and nutritious meal. The key is pairing it with fresh vegetables, herbs, and other whole foods.

Conclusion

So, does tripe have cholesterol? Yes, it contains a moderate amount of dietary cholesterol. However, to form a complete picture, it's important to consider its entire nutritional profile. Tripe is a nutrient-dense food rich in protein, B vitamins, and minerals, and relatively low in fat. For most people, consuming tripe in moderation as part of a balanced diet poses no significant health risks. Those who are more sensitive to dietary cholesterol should simply be mindful of their intake and consult a professional if needed.

For More Information

For further insights into dietary cholesterol and its effects, you can consult authoritative health resources, such as the National Institutes of Health or professional medical websites.

Understanding Cholesterol

Sources

Food Network. (2024, May 14). What Is Tripe?. foodnetwork.com. WebMD. (2024, Oct 18). Tripe: Is It Good for You?. webmd.com. Healthline. (2018, Dec 18). Tripe: Nutrition, Benefits, and Uses. healthline.com. Waterall. (2015, July 01). So, is Tripe good for you?. waterall.co.uk. Food Network. (2024, May 14). What Is Tripe?. foodnetwork.com. Food Network. (2024, May 14). What Is Tripe?. foodnetwork.com. The Spruce Eats. (2022, Sep 20). What Is Tripe?. thespruceeats.com. Dr. Axe. (2019, Sep 24). What Is Tripe Meat? 4 Reasons to Eat This Offal. draxe.com. WebMD. (2024, Oct 18). Tripe: Is It Good for You?. webmd.com. Health. (2025, Sep 18). Benefits of Tripe, Plus Nutrition and Risks. health.com. Healthline. (2018, Dec 18). Tripe: Nutrition, Benefits, and Uses. healthline.com.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, tripe is relatively high in dietary cholesterol. For example, a 3-ounce serving of cooked tripe can have over 100 mg of cholesterol, which can be a significant percentage of the daily limit for some individuals.

For most people, dietary cholesterol has a minimal effect on blood cholesterol levels, but for individuals who are "hyper-responders," it can have a greater impact. People with heart conditions should be mindful of their intake.

Yes, tripe is generally considered a lean source of protein. A 3-ounce serving has a relatively low amount of total fat compared to many other types of meat.

Tripe is rich in nutrients such as vitamin B12, selenium, and zinc. It's a great source of protein and collagen, which are beneficial for muscle, skin, and joint health.

To minimize the cholesterol impact, consume tripe in moderation and use healthy cooking methods like boiling or stewing rather than deep-frying. Pairing it with vegetables can also create a more balanced meal.

When it comes to cholesterol, tripe is lower than nutrient-dense liver. For example, cooked beef liver can have more than double the cholesterol of tripe per serving, but also provides a higher density of certain vitamins like A and C.

Nutritional values can vary slightly depending on the animal (cow, sheep, etc.) and the specific stomach chamber the tripe comes from. However, all types are relatively high in cholesterol compared to muscle meats.