If there’s one thing that Iowans like to chat about besides the weather, it’s the rising prices at the grocery store.

But surprisingly, higher costs haven’t slowed our demand for nutritious, high-quality real meat for our families.

In fact, meat sales hit a record $104.6 billion in 2024, and pounds sold increased by 2.3% compared to 2023, according to a new report from the Food Industry Association (FMI) and the Meat Institute.

The report also found that 98% of American households buy meat regularly. This reflects the latest Iowa Farm Bureau Food and Farm Index, conducted by the Harris Poll, which found that 99% of Iowa grocery shoppers eat meat at least once a week.

So why are more families choosing real meat? It’s because they know it’s a nutritional powerhouse:

  • Real meat is a complete protein.
  • It’s packed with essential nutrients.
  • It fits heart-healthy and high protein diets.
  • Real meat is a natural, unprocessed source of high-quality protein.

Real meat is a top protein source

Specifically, 90% of Americans say getting enough protein is very or somewhat important, according to Circana, which conducted the survey for FMI and the Meat Institute.

Animal-based proteins, including eggs, chicken and beef, are the top foods people recognize as high in protein, the survey found.

Protein is essential. It builds and maintains muscle, supports brain function, boosts immunity and helps fight infection.

Animal-based proteins are considered complete proteins because they contain all the essential amino acids our bodies need, nutrition experts say.

Plant-based proteins are incomplete, which means they lack some of those amino acids. That’s why vegetarians or vegans may need to combine different plant proteins or take supplements to fill the gaps.

Real meat is also a rich source of key micronutrients like B vitamins, iron, zinc, selenium and choline, which help with immunity, energy levels and brain health.

Real meat can be part of a heart-healthy diet

Lean cuts of beef and pork can also be heart-healthy, according to the American Heart Association. In fact, seven cuts of pork are just as lean as a skinless chicken breast.

Pork today has 27% less saturated fat than it did 30 years ago, thanks to improved genetics and animal care.

Lean meat can be a healthy addition to plant-forward diets, like the Mediterranean diet, experts say.

Studies show that eating up to 18 ounces of lean beef or pork per week as part of a Mediterranean-style diet may help reduce risk factors for heart disease, including total and LDL cholesterol and blood pressure.

So go ahead, enjoy that flavorful steak or pork chop. You don’t have to always eat boneless, skinless chicken breast!

Real meat is natural

Unlike some plant-based alternatives made with long ingredient lists, real meat is naturally rich in protein and nutrients, no extra processing needed.

Most Iowa grocery shoppers (94%) say meat from animals is healthier than plant-based alternatives, according to the Iowa Farm Bureau Food and Farm Index.

Plus, let’s admit it, real meat tastes better, and it satisfies your hunger.

Research shows that people who eat a higher-protein diet - including real meat - feel fuller, longer, which can help with weight management and even weight loss.

Iowa farmers raise safe, high-quality meat for your family

Here in Iowa, farmers raise some of the best-tasting Prime-grade beef in the nation. That’s because they have generations of experience caring for animals and the land.

So you can feel confident that the meat you buy is safe, nutritious and raised responsibly.

From taste to nutrition, real meat checks all the boxes. It’s a wholesome choice you can feel good about serving your family.

To learn more about how Iowa farmers work to ensure meat quality, food safety and animal care, visit www.RealFarmersRealFoodRealMeat.com.

Learn more about author Teresa Bjork here.

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