Surprising Carnivore Diet Foods You Can Eat

Dairy, Snacks & Unusual Foods on the Carnivore Diet

When people hear about the carnivore diet, they often think it means eating only red meat. But that’s not the full picture. While the diet focuses on animal-based foods and cuts out all plants, there are still many surprising items that can fit into this way of eating.

You may be wondering if foods like Greek yogurt, cheese, sausages, or even pork rinds are allowed. The answer depends on how strict you want to be. Some people follow a very limited version with just beef, salt, and water. Others take a more flexible approach by adding dairy and clean animal-based snacks.

This blog post will guide you through the lesser-known but acceptable foods on a carnivore diet. It covers dairy options like Greek yogurt and halloumi, snack choices like pork scratchings, and unusual items like black pudding and sausage. You’ll learn which ones are carnivore-friendly, how to choose clean versions, and why these foods may support your goals.

Whether you’re just starting or looking to expand your options, this post offers a clear and helpful look at what you can really eat on the carnivore diet.

Can You Eat Greek Yogurt on the Carnivore Diet?

Greek yogurt is a dairy product made by straining regular yogurt to remove whey, resulting in a thicker consistency and higher protein content. It’s primarily composed of animal-derived ingredients, making it a candidate for inclusion in a carnivore diet.

Is Greek Yogurt Allowed on Carnivore?

While Greek yogurt is animal-based, its inclusion in a carnivore diet depends on individual goals and tolerances. Some adherents of the diet incorporate it for its protein and probiotic benefits, while others avoid it due to its lactose content and minimal carbohydrates. Choosing full-fat, plain varieties without additives is crucial for those considering their inclusion.

Full-Fat Greek Yogurt on the Carnivore Diet

Opting for full-fat Greek yogurt ensures higher fat content and lower carbohydrates, aligning more closely with carnivore principles. This version provides satiety and essential nutrients without the added sugars found in flavored varieties.

Best Dairy for the Carnivore Diet

When selecting dairy products for a carnivore diet, prioritize those that are high in fat and low in carbohydrates. Examples include:

• Full-fat Greek yogurt
• Hard cheeses like cheddar and Parmesan
• Butter and ghee
• Heavy cream

These options provide essential nutrients while minimizing carbohydrate intake.

Lactose-Free Yogurt on Carnivore

For individuals sensitive to lactose, lactose-free Greek yogurt can be a suitable alternative. These products undergo processes to remove lactose, reducing potential digestive discomfort. However, it’s essential to ensure that no plant-based additives are introduced during processing.

Does Greek Yogurt Break Carnivore?

Strict adherents of the carnivore diet might argue that any dairy product, including Greek yogurt, deviates from the diet’s core principles. However, many incorporate it in moderation, especially if it doesn’t hinder their health goals. Monitoring individual responses and adjusting accordingly is key.

Can You Eat Halloumi on the Carnivore Diet?

Halloumi is a semi-hard cheese traditionally made from a mixture of goat’s and sheep’s milk. Known for its high melting point, it’s often grilled or fried, making it a popular choice in various cuisines.

Is Halloumi Cheese Carnivore-Friendly?

Given its animal-based origins, halloumi aligns with the carnivore diet’s emphasis on animal products. Its high protein and fat content make it a suitable addition for those seeking variety in their meals.

Grilled Halloumi on the Carnivore Diet

Grilling halloumi enhances its flavor and texture without introducing non-carnivore elements. It’s a versatile option that can be paired with meats or consumed independently as a snack.

Best Cheeses for the Carnivore Diet

When selecting cheeses for a carnivore diet, consider the following:

• Hard cheeses (e.g., cheddar, Parmesan)
• Semi-hard cheeses (e.g., halloumi)
• Soft cheeses (e.g., cream cheese)

These cheeses are typically low in carbohydrates and free from plant-based additives.

Halloumi vs. Other Cheeses on Carnivore

Compared to other cheeses, halloumi offers a unique texture and grilling capability. Its composition is similar to other acceptable cheeses, but its culinary versatility sets it apart.

Low-Lactose Cheese on Carnivore

For those sensitive to lactose, aged cheeses like cheddar, Parmesan, and halloumi are preferable due to their lower lactose content. These options allow individuals to enjoy dairy without adverse effects.

Can You Eat Pizza on the Carnivore Diet?

Traditional pizza, with its flour-based crust and tomato sauce, doesn’t align with the strict carnivore diet. However, with some creativity, you can enjoy pizza flavors without compromising your dietary principles.

Carnivore Diet Pizza Alternatives

Several innovative recipes allow you to savor pizza while adhering to carnivore guidelines:

• Chicken Crust Pizza: Utilizes shredded chicken, eggs, and cheese to form a protein-rich, low-carb crust.
• Pork Rind Crust Pizza: Combines ground pork rinds with eggs and cheese, resulting in a crunchy, flavorful base.
• Crustless Pizza: Focuses on layering meats and cheeses in a skillet, eliminating the crust altogether.

Meat Crust Pizza on Carnivore

Meat-based crusts are a cornerstone of carnivore-friendly pizzas. Options include ground beef, chicken, or pork, bound with eggs and cheese. These crusts are not only compliant but also rich in protein and fats, essential macronutrients for carnivore dieters.

Cheese-Only Pizza on Carnivore

For a simpler approach, a cheese-only pizza involves baking layers of cheese until crispy, then topping with additional meats and cheeses. This method satisfies pizza cravings while maintaining strict carnivore standards.

Keto Pizza vs. Carnivore Pizza

While both keto and carnivore diets are low in carbohydrates, their pizza adaptations differ:

Carnivore pizzas eliminate plant-based ingredients, focusing solely on animal-derived components.

Pepperoni Pizza Carnivore Version

Creating a carnivore-friendly pepperoni pizza involves using a meat-based crust, topping it with layers of cheese and pepperoni slices. Ensure that the pepperoni is free from added sugars or plant-based fillers to maintain compliance.

Can You Eat Black Pudding on the Carnivore Diet?

Black pudding, a type of blood sausage, presents a nuanced case for carnivore dieters. Its primary ingredients are animal-based, but certain additives may conflict with strict carnivore principles.

Is Blood Sausage Carnivore?

Blood sausage, including black pudding, is primarily made from animal products like blood and fat. However, traditional recipes often incorporate fillers such as oats or barley, which are plant-based and not suitable for a strict carnivore diet. Some variations exclude these fillers, making them more compatible.

Grain-Free Black Pudding on Carnivore

For those seeking to include black pudding in their carnivore regimen, it’s essential to source grain-free versions. Some specialty butchers offer black pudding made without cereals, relying solely on animal ingredients. Always verify the ingredient list to ensure compliance.

Benefits of Black Pudding for Carnivores

Black pudding can be a rich source of heme iron and protein, nutrients that are beneficial on a carnivore diet. Including it occasionally can diversify nutrient intake, provided it aligns with dietary restrictions.

Traditional vs. Carnivore Black Pudding

Comparing traditional and carnivore-friendly black pudding highlights key differences:

High-Iron Foods on Carnivore Diet

Incorporating high-iron foods is beneficial for carnivore dieters. Aside from black pudding, options include:

• Liver: Particularly beef liver, is exceptionally rich in iron.
• Red Meats: Such as beef and lamb, provide substantial iron content.
• Shellfish: Like clams and oysters, are also excellent sources.

These foods support optimal iron levels, essential for energy and overall health.

Can You Eat Sausages on Carnivore Diet?

Sausages can be part of the carnivore diet if they contain only animal ingredients. Many store-bought sausages include fillers like grains, sugars, or spices that are not allowed. Choosing sausages made purely from meat and salt is important to stay within the diet’s rules and enjoy this easy protein source.

Best Sausages for Carnivore Diet

The best sausages for the carnivore diet are those made from 100% meat, with minimal seasoning. Look for sausages containing only meat cuts like beef, pork, or lamb, plus salt. Avoid sausages with added sugars, starches, or plant-based fillers. Simple recipes help you stay true to carnivore principles.

Carnivore-Friendly Sausage Brands

Some brands cater to carnivores or keto eaters by offering clean sausages. These usually have no fillers, sugars, or preservatives. Popular options include:

• Wild Zora (mostly meat and natural spices)
• Chubs (high meat content, no fillers)
• Local butcher-made sausages with minimal ingredients

Always check labels to confirm.

How to Pick Clean Sausages Carnivore

When buying sausages, read the ingredients closely. Choose those with:

• Meat as the first ingredient
• Salt as the only seasoning
• No sugars, fillers, or artificial additives

Avoid sausages with breadcrumbs, starch, or plant spices to keep it carnivore-friendly.

Homemade Carnivore Sausages

Making your own sausages ensures full control over ingredients. Mix ground meat with animal fat and salt. You can add simple carnivore-friendly spices like black pepper if you wish. Homemade sausages are fresh and free from unwanted additives, perfectly fitting the carnivore diet.

Are Processed Meats Allowed on Carnivore?

Processed meats may be allowed if free from sugars, grains, or plant fillers. Some sausages, bacon, or deli meats fit if carefully chosen. Avoid heavily processed products with added sweeteners or starches. Clean processed meats can provide variety, but should be selected with care.

Can You Eat Pork Scratchings on Carnivore Diet?

Pork scratchings, also called pork rinds, are a crunchy snack made from fried pork skin. They are high in protein and fat with no carbs, making them a good fit for the carnivore diet. Their simplicity makes them a popular choice for satisfying crunchy cravings.

Pork Rinds Carnivore Diet

Pork rinds are suitable for the carnivore diet because they contain no carbohydrates or plant matter. They provide fat and protein and offer a crunchy texture, often missed on this diet. Choose pork rinds without added sugars, starches, or artificial flavorings.

Best Pork Scratchings for Carnivores

The best pork scratchings contain only pork skin and salt. Avoid those with extra seasonings or ingredients like sugar and starch. Popular brands focus on purity and minimal processing. Always read labels to avoid hidden non-carnivore ingredients.

Are Pork Scratchings Keto and Carnivore?

Pork scratchings fit both keto and carnivore diets well. They are zero-carb and high-fat, making them perfect for low-carb snacking. Their crunchy texture provides variety alongside other meat-based foods, supporting diet adherence and satisfaction.

Homemade Pork Crackling Carnivore

Making pork crackling at home is easy and allows full control over ingredients. Simply roast or fry pork skin until crispy, seasoning with only salt. Homemade crackling is fresh, additive-free, and perfectly suited for carnivore eaters who want a crunchy snack.

Low-Carb Crunchy Snacks Carnivore

Other low-carb crunchy snacks suitable for carnivores include:

• Dehydrated beef jerky without sugars or fillers
• Crispy chicken skin roasted with salt
• Pork scratchings made at home or bought with minimal ingredients

These snacks add texture and enjoyment to the diet while keeping carbs at zero.

Can You Eat Cottage Cheese on Carnivore Diet?

Cottage cheese is a dairy product made from curds. Whether it fits the carnivore diet depends on your tolerance to dairy and how strict you are. Some people include it because it is mostly protein and fat, but others avoid it due to lactose or added ingredients.

Is Cottage Cheese Allowed on Carnivore?

Cottage cheese can be allowed on the carnivore diet if it is full-fat and contains no plant-based additives or sugars. It is important to check the label for extra ingredients. Some carnivore eaters avoid it due to lactose content, while others tolerate it well.

Full-Fat Cottage Cheese Carnivore

Full-fat cottage cheese is preferred on the carnivore diet because it contains more fat, which is a key energy source on this diet. Low-fat or fat-free versions often have added ingredients or sugars, so full-fat is the better choice to stay aligned with carnivore principles.

Best Dairy for Muscle Gain: Carnivore

For muscle gain on the carnivore diet, high-protein and full-fat dairy products are recommended. Cottage cheese is a good option because it contains casein protein, which digests slowly and supports muscle repair. Other good dairy choices include heavy cream and hard cheeses.

Lactose in Cottage Cheese Carnivore

Cottage cheese contains some lactose, a sugar found in milk. For those sensitive to lactose, cottage cheese may cause digestive issues. If you want to avoid lactose, you might choose lactose-free dairy or avoid dairy altogether while on the carnivore diet.

Alternatives to Cottage Cheese Carnivore

If cottage cheese does not suit you, other dairy options include:

• Hard cheeses like cheddar or Parmesan
• Heavy cream or butter
• Greek yogurt with no added sugars

These options tend to be lower in lactose and fit well in a carnivore diet.

Can You Eat Beef Jerky on Carnivore Diet?

Beef jerky is a popular snack made from dried meat. It can fit the carnivore diet if made without sugars or plant-based seasonings. Jerky offers a convenient, high-protein option for carnivore eaters on the go.

Sugar-Free Beef Jerky Carnivore

Sugar-free beef jerky is best for the carnivore diet. Many store-bought jerky brands add sugar or sweeteners, which are not allowed. Look for jerky made from pure meat and salt, without added sugars or spices.

Best Store-Bought Jerky for Carnivore

The best store-bought jerky brands for carnivores are those that list only meat, salt, and natural preservatives. Popular options include:

• Krave Beef Jerky (check sugar content)
• Epic Jerky (some clean options)
• Country Archer (some varieties are sugar-free)

Always check the label.

Homemade Carnivore Beef Jerky

Making beef jerky at home lets you control all ingredients. Use lean beef sliced thin, salt it, and dry it at low heat until dry. Homemade jerky has no added sugars or preservatives and fits perfectly into the carnivore diet.

Is Jerky Processed Meat Allowed?

Jerky is considered processed meat because it is dried and preserved. On the carnivore diet, processed meats without sugars or plant additives are usually allowed. The key is to avoid products with added sweeteners or fillers.

High-Protein Carnivore Snacks

Beef jerky is a great high-protein snack for carnivore dieters. Other options include:

• Pork rinds without additives
• Hard cheeses
• Boiled eggs

These snacks provide protein and fat to support energy and muscle maintenance.

Is Greek Yogurt Carnivore?

Greek yogurt is a dairy product high in protein and lower in carbs than regular yogurt. Some people on the carnivore diet include it because of its animal origin and nutrients. However, it contains lactose, a sugar that some strict carnivore eaters avoid. Whether it fits depends on how strict your diet is and your tolerance.

Greek Yogurt vs. Regular Yogurt Carnivore

Greek yogurt has less lactose and more protein than regular yogurt. Regular yogurt contains more sugar and carbs. This makes Greek yogurt a better choice for those following a carnivore diet, especially if you want to reduce carbs but still enjoy dairy.

Probiotics on Carnivore Diet

Probiotics support gut health and are found in yogurt. On the carnivore diet, probiotics can help digestion and balance gut bacteria. Greek yogurt offers probiotics, but some strict carnivore eaters avoid plant-based fibers that usually feed gut bacteria.

Best Yogurt for Gut Health Carnivore

For gut health, full-fat, plain Greek yogurt with live cultures is best. It has beneficial bacteria without added sugars or flavors. If you want to avoid dairy, fermented meat-based products or supplements may provide probiotics while staying carnivore-friendly.

Dairy-Free Carnivore Alternatives

If you avoid dairy, options for probiotics on a carnivore are limited. You might use:

• Fermented fish or meat products
• Carnivore probiotic supplements
• Bone broth, which supports the gut lining

These help maintain gut health without dairy.

Does Yogurt Kick You Out of Ketosis?

Yogurt has some carbs, so eating large amounts may affect ketosis. Small servings of full-fat Greek yogurt usually do not stop ketosis, but it depends on your daily carb limits. Monitor your body’s response if you include yogurt in a carnivore or keto diet.

Can You Eat Honey on Carnivore Diet?

Honey is a natural sweetener made by bees. It contains sugar, mainly glucose and fructose, which can raise blood sugar and insulin levels. On a strict carnivore diet, honey is generally not allowed because it is plant-based and has carbs. However, some relaxed versions may allow small amounts.

Natural Sweeteners on Carnivore

Most carnivore diets avoid plant-based sweeteners, including honey, maple syrup, and agave. These add carbs and sugars, which can affect ketosis and insulin. Strict carnivore focuses only on animal foods, excluding sweeteners altogether.

Does Honey Spike Insulin Carnivore?

Honey causes a rise in insulin and blood sugar because of its sugars. This effect can disrupt the goals of a carnivore diet, like fat-burning and insulin control. Even small amounts of honey can cause an insulin response, so it is best avoided for strict carnivore followers.

Strict Carnivore vs. Relaxed Carnivore

Strict carnivore means eating only animal foods with no carbs or sugars. This way avoids any plant-based foods entirely, focusing solely on meat, fish, eggs, and some animal fats. Relaxed carnivore allows small amounts of non-animal foods like honey or fruits occasionally. Whether you include honey depends on your diet approach and personal health goals.

Alternatives to Honey Carnivore

If you want a sweet taste on carnivore, you can try:

• Carnivore-friendly spices like cinnamon (in small amounts)
• Meat-based broths with natural umami
• Artificial sweeteners are generally avoided

Pure animal foods provide natural flavors without added sugars.

Is Raw Honey Better Than Processed?

Raw honey contains some enzymes and antioxidants that processed honey loses. But both have similar sugar content and insulin effects. On the carnivore diet, raw or processed honey is avoided due to its carbs, regardless of how natural it is.

Can You Eat Coconut on Carnivore Diet?

Coconut is a plant food, so it is not part of a strict carnivore diet, which focuses only on animal foods. Some people on a relaxed carnivore diet include coconut products because of their fat content. Coconut is popular for its healthy fats, but it does contain fiber and carbs, which strict carnivore eaters usually avoid.

Is Coconut Oil Allowed on Carnivore?

Coconut oil is extracted from coconut meat and contains mostly fat with almost no carbs or fiber. Many on the carnivore diet allow coconut oil because it is a pure fat source that does not have plant fiber. It is often used for cooking or added to meals for extra energy.

Plant Foods on Carnivore Diet

Strict carnivore excludes all plant foods, including fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds. Coconut, being a fruit, is not allowed in strict carnivore rules. However, some people following a more flexible carnivore diet may include small amounts of plant fats like coconut oil or butter.

MCT Oil vs. Coconut Oil Carnivore

MCT oil is a refined form of fat extracted from coconut oil. It contains medium-chain triglycerides, which the body quickly uses for energy. Both are accepted by many carnivore followers, but MCT oil has no fiber or carbs, making it easier to fit into a strict carnivore diet compared to coconut oil.

Carnivore Diet and Fiber

The carnivore diet eliminates fiber because it comes from plants and may irritate some people’s digestion. Coconut meat has fiber, which is why it is avoided in strict carnivores. Coconut oil and MCT oil contain no fiber, making them acceptable for many following a carnivore.

Strict Animal-Based Diet Rules

Strict carnivore rules mean eating only animal products such as meat, fish, eggs, and some dairy. No plant foods or plant-based oils are allowed. Coconut oil is an exception in some cases because it has no carbs or fiber, but coconut meat is not allowed.

Conclusion

The carnivore diet focuses on animal-based foods, but there is room for variety depending on how strict you want to be. Foods like Greek yogurt, halloumi, and even certain snacks like pork scratchings and black pudding can fit into a flexible carnivore plan. Meat-based alternatives, such as pizza with meat crust or sugar-free beef jerky, help satisfy cravings while keeping the diet clean.

Choosing the right dairy, sausages, and fats like MCT oil can support nutrition and make the diet easier to follow. Understanding which foods fit the carnivore lifestyle helps you stay on track and enjoy a balanced, animal-based way of eating.

FAQs

1. Is the carnivore diet healthy?

It can be healthy short term, but may lack some nutrients found in plants long-term.

2. Can you eat dairy on the carnivore diet?

Yes, mostly full-fat, low-carb dairy like cheese and heavy cream are allowed.

3. Does the carnivore diet cause weight loss?

Many experience weight loss due to low-carb intake and higher protein consumption.

4. Can you eat eggs on the carnivore diet?

Yes, eggs are a staple protein source and fully allowed on the carnivore diet.

5. Is the carnivore diet good for gut health?

It may improve some gut issues, but it lacks fiber, which is important for digestion.