Return to News
Just because you’re watching your weight doesn’t mean you need to give up beef (phew!).
Thanks to increasing consumer demand for lean meat, there are heaps of lean cuts of beef available in stores. According to MLA, the average fat content for ‘lean beef’ is 4 grams of fat per 100 grams, and almost two thirds of the fat in lean beef is the healthy, unsaturated kind.
Beef is also an important source of protein, essential vitamins/minerals and it provides more iron, zinc, vitamin B12 and other nutrients than poultry, pork or fish. The main sources of saturated fats in the Australian diet have nothing to do with beef – instead, they come from fast food, unhealthy snacks, oils, spreads and processed foods. So, as long as you know what to look for in a lean cut of beef, there is no reason for you to give up your weekly steak or roast!
Tips for Choosing Lean Beef
Make sure that you purchase pre-trimmed, lean cuts. A bit of marblng is fine and adds to the juiciness and flavour of beef.
Want lean mince?
Look for mince with a ‘heart smart’ sticker on the package – only mince with less that 4 grams of saturated fat per 100 grams qualifies for the National Heart Foundation tick of approval.
For more information about understanding the fat content of beef, see MLA Healthy Meals and this Guide to Beef.
