Interbev highlights beef's nutritional value

At the Space and the Livestock Summit, Interbev emphasized the nutritional benefits of beef, especially for children, adolescents, women of childbearing age, and the elderly. The organization stressed that beef provides essential nutrients that are important for health and development.

French meat consumption trends

Despite growing interest in plant-based diets, the French remain attached to meat. The 5th National Nutrition and Health Plan recommends 500 grams of cooked red meat per week, and 72% of the French follow this guideline, according to Matthieu Repplinger from Interbev’s calf section.

Declining meat consumption

However, 31% of the French now eat less than 100 grams of red meat per week, up from 18% in 2019. Interbev is responding to these trends by advocating for the continued inclusion of meat in school meals and promoting its nutritional value.

Beef as a nutrient-rich food

Beef is a rich source of proteins that are easily digested and can help prevent muscle loss. It also provides essential nutrients like iron, zinc, and vitamin B12, which are crucial for overall health and development.

Protein and nutrient comparison

100 grams of cooked beef steak can meet a significant portion of daily requirements for protein, iron, zinc, and vitamin B12. To match this protein intake from plant-based sources, one would need to consume larger amounts of tofu, lentils, or skyr, according to Repplinger.

Changing patterns in beef consumption

Marie Petitdemange from Interbev notes that while overall meat consumption is increasing in France, beef consumption is declining by 1% annually. However, this decline is slower than the rate of beef production, and there are shifts in how beef is consumed and used in meals.