Beef Nutrition Facts

Beef is the #3 food source of iron behind fortified cereal and grains.

A 3-ounce serving of lean beef is an excellent source of Protein, Zinc, Phosphorous, Iron and B-Complex Vitamins. Protein helps build a strong and muscular body. Zinc helps create a healthy immune system and heal wounds. Phosphorous is necessary for strong teeth and bones. Iron helps carry oxygen in the blood to all cells and muscles to prevent fatigue.

Three ounces of beef contributes to less than 10 percent of the Daily Value for nine essential nutrients. This is based on a 2,000-calorie diet.

Beef not only provides an excellent amount of nutrients. There are 19 cuts of beef that are leaner than a skinless chicken thigh and meet the USDA Labeling Guidelines for lean cuts.

Benefits of Beef Consumption

Beef supplies an abundant amount of key nutrients to help children grow up to be strong and healthy. Nutrients that are found in beef contribute to optimal growth, cognitive function, red blood cell development and prevent iron deficiency during the adolescent years.

The American Dietetic Association recognizes beef as a functional food that provides a health benefit beyond basic nutrition because of its Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA) content, a fatty acid found naturally in beef. Recent research indicates CLA may play a role in cancer by inhibiting tumor growth and development.

Lean Beef Tips

1.) Choose the leanest cuts by looking for LOIN or ROUND in the name.

2.) Buy ground beef that a 90 percent lean or higher.

3.) Trim away any visible outside fat before cooking.

4.) Use low-fat cooking methods such as broiling, roasting or grilling.

5.) Eat reasonable portion sizes. One 3-ounce serving of beef is the size of a deck of cards or a computer mouse.