Beef Checkoff Research Finds No Link Between Unprocessed Red Meat and Obesity
New research funded by the beef checkoff adds to the growing body of evidence that supports fresh beef as part of a healthy, sustainable diet. This study, conducted by Texas Tech University, challenges long-held assumptions about red meat and its impact on obesity.
“Animal-sourced foods like red meat are often associated with obesity risk. However, Texas Tech University researchers conducted a comprehensive analysis of available research on the relationship between unprocessed red meat intake and obesity, finding no significant effect of such intake on weight gain or related metabolic issues in adults.”
The findings reinforce beef’s role as a nutrient-dense food, offering essential benefits to consumers.
“The researchers found that beef contains high-quality protein and other essential nutrients, and people enjoy it as a key source of nourishment, but they’re often discouraged from consuming red meat based on recommendations primarily driven by observational evidence.”
While earlier health recommendations have largely relied on observational studies, this new analysis provides a more rigorous scientific foundation.
“The Texas Tech study is the first to fully review the totality of causative evidence, which shows no protective or adverse effect of unprocessed red meat intake on obesity.”
This is an important distinction for consumers and policymakers alike, especially as dietary guidelines continue to evolve. The study helps to clarify the difference between processed and unprocessed red meat, an often-overlooked nuance in nutrition debates.
The research was funded by the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) and the Texas Beef Council, organizations that continue to support science-based nutrition education.
“The NCBA and the Texas Beef Council funded the research.”
With obesity rates still a major public health concern, studies like this one help ensure that public dietary guidance reflects the most accurate and up-to-date science. For the beef industry, it’s a welcome validation of what many producers and nutrition experts have known for years: beef can be part of a balanced and healthful diet.