Steak VS Mincemeat

Who doesn’t love a good steak? That tender, juicy bite that makes your taste buds sing can be a real treat. But when it comes to nutrition, the cut of meat you choose can make a big difference. From fillet steak to mince beef, our preferences vary widely, but if you’re choosing based on nutrition, you might be surprised by what’s best for you.

The Myth of Expensive Cuts

There’s a common misconception that the more expensive the cut, the healthier it is. However, the truth is that fatty meat stores more nutrients than its leaner counterparts. Fatty cuts contain higher levels of fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K, which are stored in animal fat.

So, while that delicious fillet steak may be a premium choice, it actually contains fewer nutrients than its fattier counterparts, surprising right?

The Fatty Truth

As consumers we often go for leaner cuts for health reasons, due to the widespread belief that saturated fat from animals is harmful. Yet, recent science suggests otherwise. A 2020 review of several studies found a very weak association between saturated fat and heart disease, this means that saturated fat and cholesterol might not be as harmful as we once thought.

The Nutrient Champion: Minced Beef

With more nutrients and saturated fat not being a concern, the healthiest option for both you and your wallet is minced beef, especially with higher fat content. Minced beef with 20% fat isn't just about added vitamins; it also contains tendons, ligaments, and connective tissue that provide collagen. Collagen is rich in amino acids that support your skin, hair, nails, and joints. Choosing minced beef with 20% fat gives you a broader nutritional profile, including these collagen benefits.

Swapping a fillet steak for 20% fat mince could save you £182.52 a year and significantly increase your nutrient intake. Not only does minced beef save money, but it also provides a versatile base for countless dishes like burgers, meatballs, bolognese, and tacos - we’re partial to a taco or two!

• Fillet Steak: Around £35 per kg. Most expensive and doesn't provide a significant health upside.
• Ribeye Steak: About £24 per kg. A delicious splurge with added fat-soluble vitamins.
• Rump Steak: At £15 per kg, economical with a nutritious rind of fat.
• Steak Mince Beef 5% Fat**: At £7 per kg, affordable with lower fat content but fewer nutrients.
• Minced Beef 20% Fat: About £5 per kg. The most affordable and nutrient-rich option.

Quality Matters

While all unprocessed meat is healthy, the quality of your meat matters too. Organic and grass-fed meat typically contains higher Omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart and brain health, while grass-fed beef has up to 6 times more Omega-3s than feedlot cattle!

Incorporating higher-fat minced beef into your diet can be a simple yet effective way to boost your nutrient intake while saving money. The versatility of mince makes it easy to enjoy a variety of dishes, ensuring you never get bored. 

So, next time you're at the butcher, consider reaching for the mince with 20% fat—your wallet and your body will thank you.