Cholesterol comes from any and every animal product we consume. This includes beef, pork, chicken, fish, shellfish, dairy products and eggs. Plant products, like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans and nuts, do not contain any cholesterol.
Meats
Cholesterol in meats tends to be higher in beef and pork than in chicken. A 3.5-oz. serving of chicken contains 60 mg of cholesterol compared to 90 mg in a 3-oz. lean cut of chuck blade roast beef; braised spare ribs has 103 mg in a similar sized serving. Organ meat tends to be much higher in cholesterol. A 4-oz. beef liver pan fried has 551 mg cholesterol.
Dairy and Eggs
One large egg contains 215 mg cholesterol easily topping the charts for dairy products. One cup of whole milk contains 33 mg, while 1 tbsp. butter has 31 mg cholesterol. One ounce cream cheese contains 27 mg, compared to 19 mg in 1 oz cheddar cheese.
Shellfish
Cholesterol in shellfish can be rather high, but shellfish is low in saturated fat, so it is not as bad for you as some meals with similar levels of cholesterol. Just be sure to consume in moderation. A cooked 3-oz. lobster has 61 mg cholesterol while a breaded and fried 3-oz. serving of shrimp has 150 mg of cholesterol.
Fish
Cholesterol in fish is a little tricky. Though it is relatively high in cholesterol per serving, fish is also one of the best sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which plays a big role in reducing cholesterol. A 3-oz. serving of halibut has 35 mg, compared to 74 mg in 3 oz. cooked salmon and 49 mg in a 3-oz. serving of yellowfin tuna.
Oils
The only oil that contains cholesterol is called "ghee" oil. It is typically used in Indian restaurants. It is made by boiling butter to remove the water and then skimming the liquid layer, leaving the milk solids at the bottom. All other oils are made from plants, and therefore, do not contain cholesterol.
