When it comes to nutrition, we often hear that meat should be eaten in moderation, especially in comparison to nutrient-packed fruits and vegetables. However, what if I told you there’s a type of meat that not only beats some of your favorite veggies but also ranks as one of the most nutritious foods on the planet? Surprised? Let’s dive into the unexpected superstar that is changing the way we think about healthy eating.
A Surprising Top Contender
In an eye-opening study conducted by experts at BBC Future, which analyzed over 1,000 different foods, one unexpected product made it to the top 10 healthiest foods. While we typically associate the healthiest foods with fruits, vegetables, or fish rich in omega-3s, a type of meat surprisingly found its way to the eighth spot in this ranking. Yes, you read that right: meat—which often gets a bad rap in the nutrition world—proves that it can be part of a healthy diet after all.
The product in question received an impressive nutrition score of 73 out of 100, putting it in the same league as foods like brightly colored veggies and juicy fruits. But which meat could it be?
The Nutritious Profile You Never Expected
It turns out the meat in question isn’t beef or chicken, but pork fat—also known as lard. I know, it might sound strange at first. Many of us have grown up hearing about the “dangers” of lard, with its association with excess calories and fat. However, in reality, lard has a nutritional profile that has far more to offer than we might think.
Rich in monounsaturated fats, the same healthy fats found in olive oil, lard can contribute to heart health when consumed in moderation. It also provides a solid source of B vitamins, which are essential for maintaining energy levels and promoting overall cell function. Additionally, it contains several important minerals, which are crucial for our well-being. The key here, as with any fat-rich food, is moderation—consume it too much, and it could have the opposite effect.
Why Choose Free-Range Pork?
If you’re thinking about incorporating lard into your diet, it’s important to choose the right kind. Free-range pork is the best option, as it’s a much healthier source of fat compared to pork from factory-farmed animals. Pigs raised outdoors tend to produce a fat that’s richer in vitamin D, a nutrient that many people are often deficient in, especially during the winter months. This makes free-range pork fat not only a healthier option but also a smarter choice for your overall health. So, if you’re going to indulge in this meat, going for high-quality, pasture-raised pork will give you the most nutritional benefits.
Fish: A Healthier Alternative to Traditional Meat
Of course, if you’re not keen on the idea of incorporating pork fat into your diet, you still have options that rank highly in nutrition. For instance, perch tops the list, scoring a remarkable 89 out of 100. It stands out due to its low saturated fat content, high levels of vitamin B12, and abundance of selenium—a powerful antioxidant that supports immune health.
Perch is just one example of how seafood can often outshine other types of meat when it comes to health benefits. If you’re looking to reduce your intake of saturated fats while still getting plenty of nutrients, seafood like perch might just be the answer.
Rethinking Your Meat Choices
This revelation about lard challenges many of the preconceived notions we have about meat and fat. While it’s true that some cuts of meat are laden with unhealthy fats, there are options—like free-range pork fat—that can provide significant health benefits when eaten mindfully. Adding a healthy fat like lard into your diet, along with a balanced intake of vegetables, fruits, and lean meats, can actually be a part of a nutritious lifestyle.
So, the next time you hear someone say that meat isn’t good for you, remember this surprising fact: there are meats—when chosen and consumed correctly—that can be as healthy as they are delicious.
