The Healthy Skeptic takes a look at six labels on meat and poultry packaging that can be deceiving.
VIDEO TRANSCRIPT
Hey, it’s Robert Davis, the Healthy Skeptic. Meat and poultry packages often have labels that can be confusing. Here are six that may not mean what you think.
One. 80 percent lean ground beef. While this sounds low in fat, it’s not. That’s because the percentage refers to weight, not calories. 80% lean /20% fat meat is actually about 70% fat by calories and has a hefty 9 grams of saturated fat per serving.
Two. No added hormones on poultry. Under law, hormones are never allowed for chicken, turkey or pork. So there’s nothing special about brands making this claim.
Three. No nitrates or nitrites added. These compounds, which are used to preserve and flavor processed meats, have been linked to cancer. As the fine print reveals, products claiming no added nitrates or nitrites still contain them in a naturally occurring form, which is no safer.
Four. All natural. For meat and poultry, “natural” means minimally processed, with no artificial ingredients or added colors. It does not relate to what the animals are fed or how they’re raised. Nor does it guarantee the food is any safer or healthier.
The same goes for number five, kosher meat and poultry. Despite their wholesome reputation, there’s no evidence that they’re any less prone to contamination. And kosher rules don’t govern whether the animals are given antibiotics or raised humanely.
Six. Free range poultry. Though this conjures up images of chickens happily roaming the land, it in fact means only that the animals have access to the outdoors… not necessarily that they go outside or spend much time there.
For a guarantee that they were raised outdoors, look for the “Animal Welfare Approved” seal.
For more on diet and nutrition claims, check out my book, Coffee is Good for You, which reveals the truth about everything from red meat to red wine.