The Context:
Red meat (beef, lamb or pork) has been a staple in our diets for so long, but in recent years there has been a lot more talk about the potential health risks associated with its consumption. What’s the beef with red meat?
Is red meat healthy?
It’s not a simple yes or no answer, this one. Let’s start with the health benefits of having red meat in our diets. Red meat is a good source of amino acids, protein, iron, and essential nutrients that the body needs to function properly. If we take liver for example, it is a high-quality protein full of vitamins A, B12, B6, folic acid, iron, zinc, and essential amino acids.
But, not all red meat is created equal, and the way in which it is prepared can have a significant impact on its potential health effects too. For example, lean cuts of grilled red meat are always going to be a healthier choice than fatty cuts fried in lashings of oil or butter, and served with a creamy sauce. (Those burgers don’t come on their own do they? Add in a brioche bun, maybe some melting cheese, a dollop of mayo…).
Before you reach for the rib-eye, research has also linked high consumption of red meat to an increased risk of several health problems: including heart disease, certain types of cancer (particularly colo-rectal), and type 2 diabetes. This is largely due to the high levels of saturated fat and cholesterol found in red meat, which can contribute to the buildup of plaque in the arteries and increase the risk of heart disease.
Studies have consistently found that processed red meat (such as bacon, sausage, and deli meats) are particularly harmful to health, as they often contain high levels of sodium and other preservatives that can increase the risk of heart disease, cancer, and other chronic health problems.
The real answer here is moderation. Adults should eat no more than 80-110g of red meat per day, and it’s always healthier to choose lean cuts – and cook them in a healthy way. For those looking to reduce their risk of chronic health problems, it may be best to limit or avoid red meat altogether and focus on other sources of protein and nutrients.
We only use the best British meat in your recipe boxes. Lean cuts from high-welfare British herds, free to roam and dine out on grass.
To see our healthy beef recipes click here
To see our healthy pork recipes click here
To see our healthy lamb recipes click here