The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) is reacting to the release of the new Dietary Guidelines, which place a stronger emphasis on protein intake and building healthy diets around whole foods. The updated guidelines nearly double the recommended daily amount of protein, a shift NCBA says aligns well with the nutritional value beef provides to families across the country.
NCBA Vice President Kim Brackett welcomed the updated guidance, noting both her personal and professional perspective. Brackett said, “As a mom, I understand the importance of eating nutritious wholesome protein and as a rancher, I see the hard work that goes into providing the best possible food for our communities. The updated and simplified Dietary Guidelines will help more families like mine learn the facts about beef’s nutritional value and make the best decisions when they’re shopping for a nutrient-rich, whole, and delicious protein.”
The new Dietary Guidelines focus on whole foods and nutrient density, areas where NCBA says beef plays a critical role. Brackett emphasized beef’s nutritional profile, stating, “Beef provides high amounts of protein plus nine other essential nutrients like iron and B vitamins, and gold-standard clinical studies have consistently shown that it is easy to incorporate beef into a balanced, heart-healthy diet.” According to NCBA, this science-based approach helps consumers better understand how beef can fit into everyday meals while supporting overall health.
NCBA also expressed appreciation for federal leadership in recognizing beef’s role in healthy diets. Brackett added, “We appreciate Secretary Rollins and Secretary Kennedy underlining the role of beef as an important part of a healthy diet.” The association says this recognition is meaningful for ranching families who work year-round to produce high-quality beef for consumers.
In addition to protein intake, NCBA highlighted several recommendations included in the Dietary Guidelines. These include, “Incorporate beef tallow and other healthy fats into the cooking process. Use healthier cooking methods like baking, broiling, roasting, stir-frying, or grilling, all of which can be used with the wide variety of retail beef cuts available to American families. Introducing nutrient-dense foods like meat during infancy and early childhood to support growing children.”
NCBA says these recommendations reinforce the importance of balanced, practical nutrition guidance that families can follow at home. As consumers look for ways to build healthy, protein-rich meals, the association believes the updated Dietary Guidelines provide clarity and confidence, while reaffirming beef’s place as a nutrient-dense, wholesome food choice.
Audio Reporting by Dale Sandlin for Southeast AgNet.