Consumers Undervalue Health Benefits of Meat, Poultry: AMI
When it comes to proper protein intake, consumers are not only confused about the suggested portions they should be eating, but also underestimate the nutrition benefits that meat and poultry have to offer.
According to a survey conducted by Harris Poll for the American Meat Institute (AMI), only 12 percent of participants identified animal products like meat and poultry as the only natural source of Vitamin B12. Some 20 percent said cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli and cauliflower were a natural source of B12, and 13 percent thought the correct answer was citrus fruit - neither of the latter two contain Vitamin B12.
Additionally, meat and poultry contain “heme” iron – the most absorbable form – but AMI’s survey found that 52 percent of consumers incorrectly identified leafy greens like spinach and kale as the main source of absorbable iron. In fact, only 17 percent correctly identified meat, poultry and fish.
When asked which food groups Americans consume at the recommended levels, one in three (31 percent) said the protein group. Twenty two percent answered grains; 21 percent answered dairy; and 20 percent said fats, oils and sweets. Half of consumers (48 percent) said they did not know.
AMI’s dietitian-authored brochure, “Meat: A Key Player on Your Wellness Team,” is available online.