WASHINGTON -- The U.S. Department of Agriculture's new MyPlate icon aims to help consumers build a healthful diet in accordance with the 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans.
In around 150 calories, one 3-ounce serving of lean beef gives consumers "more bang for their calorie buck." Consumers need to know that lean beef supplies nearly half of their daily value for protein, as well as nine other essential nutrients, including zinc, iron and vitamin B12. The MyPlate icon makes it easy for consumers to enjoy lean beef, while meeting the recommendation to fill half of their plate with fruits and vegetables.
Lean beef benefits
American cattlemen are ready to help consumers build a healthful diet that includes lean beef. The Beef Checkoff Program, to which I am a contributor, allocates more than $2 million annually in nutrition research and education. Tools such as www.BeefItsWhatsforDinner.com provide consumers with valuable knowledge about the important role lean beef plays in building a nutrient-dense, well-balanced diet.
Consumers want, demand and deserve choice when it comes to building a healthful plate. The more than 29 cuts of beef that meet government guidelines for lean give them that choice while serving as an essential building block to a nutrient-dense, well-balanced diet.
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Editor's Note: Donald is president of the National Cattlemen's Beef Association.
