Red meat

Horse

Written by the VitaWhat editorial team · Medically reviewed by Steve Davis · Last reviewed 19 July 2026 · Editorial policy

Lean red meat eaten in parts of Europe and Asia; taboo in others.

Effect on the body: exceptionally high in iron and low in fat, but sourcing and welfare/regulatory concerns are significant; not part of the UK food culture.

Benefits

  • Iron (very high)
  • Protein
  • B12
  • Omega-3

Pros

  • Very lean
  • High in iron and B12
  • Sustainably sourced in some regions

Cons

  • Strong cultural taboo in the UK/US
  • Risk of unregulated supply and drug residues (the 2013 scandal)
  • Ethical concerns

Sources & references

  1. WHO — Q&A on red/processed meat
  2. British Nutrition Foundation

Related entries

Beef (lean)Buffalo (water buffalo)CamelGoatLambLiver
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