As we approach 2026, the Florida Beef Council is encouraging consumers to think differently about their New Year’s resolutions—by putting nourishing, protein-rich foods like beef back on the plate. With many families juggling busy schedules, wellness goals, and the post-holiday slump, beef can play a valuable role in supporting energy, satiety, and balanced nutrition.
To better understand how beef fits into healthy eating habits, we caught up with Jamie Lee McIntyre, a registered dietician and nutritionist, who shared practical insights for families looking to reset their routines in the new year. McIntyre emphasizes that nutrition doesn’t have to be complicated or restrictive, especially when it comes to building meals that truly satisfy.
“Well, first and foremost, I’m going to start with protein.
As a dietician and a mom, I know that mornings for us go a lot better when we start with protein and a family favorite is, of course, beef. It gives us that protein plus iron and B12 for real energy. And sometimes people don’t think about it for breakfast, but it’s that first meal of the day and I want it to really satiate.
Sometimes we’ll do leftover steak and eggs or breakfast beef tacos with some ground beef, or we’ll use leftover beef in just a quick egg scramble and throw that with some nice fresh veggies in there. But what I really try to focus on with my clients this time of year is not to lean too much into the food rules. Let’s just focus on building those balanced plates and healthy habits.
They’re not really all about cutting foods out, as one may think. It’s really about putting in what’s going to nourish you and finding ways to get in more of that protein. You know, the January fatigue is real.
So if we get those nutrients in, like the protein, the iron, the zinc that’s going to come with delicious beef, that’s going to really help support families, busy adults, and growing kiddos.”
According to the Florida Beef Council, beef’s natural nutrients—such as high-quality protein, iron, zinc, and vitamin B12—make it a smart choice for consumers setting realistic, sustainable health goals in 2026. Rather than focusing on elimination diets, the new year can be about adding foods that fuel energy, support growth, and keep families feeling satisfied.
By rethinking resolutions and embracing balanced plates, beef can help turn healthy intentions into lasting habits all year long.
Audio Reporting by Dale Sandlin for Southeast AgNet.