JUST LESS THAN HALF OF UK CONSUMERS SAY THEY AREN’T GETTING ENOUGH PROTEIN IN THEIR DIET

New research has revealed that consumers aren’t confident they are getting enough protein in their diets, with 2 in 5 (43%) adults unsure they consume enough of it. While 60% of consumers are aware red meat is a good source of protein, only half (56%) are eating red meat twice or less a week, despite government guidelines recommending people should eat around at most 70g per day, which equates to approximately 500g a week.

The study, commissioned by Atomik Research on behalf of Hybu Cig Cymru highlights a startling knowledge gap amongst UK consumers when it comes to the nutritional value of including red meat in a balanced diet. When asked what benefit protein has for the body, unsurprisingly over half (58%) said protein is good for building muscle. However, only a quarter (25%) of people know that protein helps to defend the body from disease and under a third (28%) are aware that red meat is a good source of B vitamins such as B12, which helps the immune system function properly. Just 33% of consumers know that red meat can help boost your metabolism, and under half (46%) are aware it can help you to maintain a healthy diet.

Sophie Bertrand, Nutritionist, commented: “Including protein in our diets is vital to help support our overall health, but it’s clear there is still some confusion around what we should be eating in order to reach our daily recommended amount. Eating a variety of foods that contain protein as part of a balanced diet can help to achieve this, and red meat can play an important role for some people. Good-quality red meat like Welsh Lamb and Welsh Beef are rich-protein sources, vital for building muscle mass, supporting the immune system and helping the body function properly. We know that there is often conflicting information out there, but the fact remains that the nutritional value of red meat is impressive – including it in our diets can help enhance our wellbeing throughout our lives.”

The findings also revealed that alongside protein, consumers are not getting a sufficient amount of iron in their diets, with just over 1 in 5 people (21%) having been diagnosed with an iron deficiency, with the issue being particularly prevalent amongst those aged 18-34 (32%). Despite this, almost half (49%) of this younger age group only eat red meat as a treat – whilst almost a quarter (24%) of the UK’s meat eaters are including red meat in their diets just once a week, highlighting the importance of incorporating it into your diet regularly.

Commenting on the findings, Elwen Roberts, Consumer Executive at Hybu Cig Cymru, added: “This research shows that there is a worrying lack of understanding amongst consumers when it comes to the health and nutritional value of red meat and it’s vital that we continue to drive public awareness on red meat’s many positive health credentials. Good quality red meat, such as Welsh Lamb and Welsh Beef are an excellent, natural source of protein and iron, which we know is essential for boosting your metabolism, immune system and maintaining good health. Welsh Lamb is an incredibly versatile meat that pairs well with pulses and vegetables, enabling you to create a delicious, high-quality balanced meal that goes further, perfect for the whole family to enjoy.”