Red meat is a term used to refer to meat that comes from mammals, such as cows, pigs, sheep, and goats. It typically means meat that’s red when raw, but it can also include darker meats like duck and goose.
Red meat is a popular ingredient worldwide and is often eaten in large quantities in Western diets. However, it has received some bad press in recent years because of its links to health issues when consumed in excess. Here, we will take a closer look at red meat and some of its health implications.
Is Red Meat Healthy?
Red meat is a fantastic source of protein, essential vitamins such as iron and zinc, and other important nutrients.
However, it is important to remember that excessive consumption of red meat has been linked to several health issues, including heart disease and an increased risk of some types of cancer. Overconsumption of red meat has also been linked to an increased risk of type 2 diabetes.
Types of Red Meat
There are several types of red meat, including:.
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What is White Meat?
- Beef: this includes steaks, roasts, and ground beef
- Pork: this includes tenderloin, chops, and bacon
- Lamb: this includes lamb chops, lamb shanks, and ground lamb
- Goat: this includes goat chops and ground goat meat
- Deer: this includes venison steaks and ground venison
Preparation and Storage of Red Meat
It’s important to prepare and store red meat correctly to avoid foodborne illnesses. To do this, you should:.
- Keep red meat refrigerated at or below 40°F (4°C) until it is ready to be cooked
- Use separate cutting boards and utensils for red meat and other foods to avoid cross-contamination
- Cook red meat to the appropriate temperature. For beef and lamb, cook to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare, 160°F (71°C) for medium, and 170°F (77°C) for well-done. For pork, the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare, 160°F (71°C) for medium, and 180°F (82°C) for well-done
Alternatives to Red Meat
If you’re looking to cut down on your red meat consumption but still want to eat meat, there are several alternatives you can try. These include:.
- Chicken
- Turkey
- Fish
- Eggs
- Beans and legumes
- Nuts and seeds
The Bottom Line
Red meat is a tasty and nutritious ingredient, but it’s important to consume it in moderation. Long-term overconsumption of red meat has been linked to several health issues, so it’s a good idea to limit your intake.
If you’re looking to cut down on red meat, there are plenty of alternatives that are just as tasty and nutritious. Always remember to prepare and store red meat properly to avoid foodborne illnesses.
