NutritiveValue of

Meat and Poultry

Group 1 - Monday Cleaners
• The nutritional value of meat is generally
derived from its high protein content. The
fats found in meats can also be a valuable
source of fuel for the body. Meat typically
contains important minerals, including iron,
phosphorous, zinc, and the complete range
of B vitamins, some of which — like vitamin
B12 — can usually only be found in foods
derived from animals.
• Meat usually contains high levels of
complete protein, a nutrient necessary for a
healthy body. The proteins in meat are
normally easy for most people to digest. The
body typically uses this nutrient to perform
cellular repairs and generate new tissue.
Protein is also considered crucial to the
regulation of immune function and
electrolyte balance.
• Fat is also found in meat, and while too
much fat can be bad for health, some is
needed to keep the body working correctly.
The human body generally burns fat for
energy. Protein can also be used for energy,
but most experts agree that fat and
carbohydrates should supply the bulk of the
body's energy needs.
• Iron is necessary for helping oxygen
molecules bind to red blood cells, and meat
is considered an excellent source of this
mineral. The iron found in meats is among
the most easily absorbed and used of any
dietary sources. Vegetable sources of this
mineral may be more difficult for the body
to use.
The poultry meat is not only tasteful, easy to
prepare and appropriate for different food
combinations, but also a natural source of:
• vitamins,
• minerals,
• proteins, and
• healthy fats
• The poultry meat that ends up on our plates must
be healthy, fresh, of good quality and
appropriately processed. Therefore, it is important
that you are careful already when buying the
poultry meat. When selecting the foods, be careful
of their origin and select products, bearing the
marks of quality and protection of health. The
producer must guarantee that the food you eat is
indeed healthy and faultless. However, when
preparing the meat, avoid the excessive heat
processing, because it influences the loss of
nutritious substances and may even be harmful to
health.
• In the proper diet pyramid, designed by the
experts of the World Health Organization,
the poultry meat occupies an important
segment.