TOPEKA, Kan. — According to NCBA, consumers today are more open to the nutritional benefits of beef than at any other time since the checkoff began more than three decades ago, but getting to this point required consistent long-term investments in nutrition research to turn the tide.
The beef checkoff was implemented at a time when U.S. Dietary Guidelines encouraged Americans to limit beef in their diet and reduce their intake of fat and cholesterol. This coincided with Americans’ growing interest in healthy lifestyles and it quickly became clear nutrition and health concerns could be a potential barrier to consumers eating beef. To address the concerns and further understand beef’s role in health, the checkoff began funding nutrition research. This led to two landmark studies that have reinforced the idea that beef fits within a heart-healthy diet. Additionally, the current Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend introducing solid foods, like beef, to infants and toddlers. Beef also is consistently recommended by scientists, physicians and registered dietitians. Furthermore, 75% of consumers now agree that beef is nutritious.
“I’ve seen firsthand the evolution of nutrition behavior over the years,” said Becky Walth, South Dakota producer and member of the Nutrition & Health Checkoff Committee. “The beef checkoff has been ahead of the curve, conducting research to demonstrate the importance of beef in a balanced diet.”
— Kansas Livestock Association
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