Most common types of meat and seafood
There are various types of meat and seafood, and all are different when it comes to taste, nutritional value, and properties. Meats and seafood are excellent sources of proteins and other nutrients. And with the variety of flavors, there is something always available for everyone. Moreover, there are plenty of recipes to try. Today, we will explore the common types and varieties of meat and seafood available so that you know your options.
Common types of meat
The meat industry is one of the largest food industries in the world. There are three main categories of meat. Those three categories are:
- Poultry
It is also called white meat and includes turkey and chicken.
- Red meat
Red meat includes pork, goat, beef, lamb, and other livestock.
- Seafood
Seafood includes fish, crabs, lobsters, oysters, and mussels .
Common types of meat available in the country:
- Chicken
As mentioned earlier, chicken comes under the poultry category and is considered white meat. It is one of the most consumed meats in the meat and seafood category in the country, and the poultry industry has been growing faster than ever. Chicken meat is rich in proteins and low in fats. There are various chicken-based foods such as roasted chicken, chicken soup, fried chicken, and even chicken popcorn.
Pork, one of the world’s most well-known types of meat, is classified as red meat, as it consists of myoglobin, a protein responsible for the red color of the pork. It is rich in vitamin B1 and omega-6 fatty acids. It also consists of selenium and zinc, which boost the immune system. There are different cuts of pork, and foods such as bacon, salami, ham, hot dogs, and sausages are made from this meat. Pork is also very flavorful and easy to prepare.
Beef is another common meat under the meat and seafood category. There are many beef cuts and varieties available, ranging from ribeye steaks to hamburgers. Beef is rich in zinc, iron, vitamin B12, and oleic acid, the primary fat in olive oil. Beef also contains many potentially healthy compounds such as glutathione, creatine, and conjugated linoleic acid (CLA). However, beware that overeating this meat can be unhealthy, as iron levels may increase drastically, resulting in cardiovascular diseases and cancer risks.
Lamb is not as easily available as beef, chicken, and pork in the meat and seafood category. But it’s quite delicious. It is found that, on average, an American consumes around 0.4 kg of lamb annually. Though it is one of the most expensive meats, it is considered the healthiest and most nutritious, consisting of zinc and selenium. There are various lamb cuts; perhaps, the most popular one is lamb chops.
Common types of seafood eat available in the country:
- Shrimp
Shrimp, the most widely served seafood in the country, is mostly wild or farm-raised. It is very high in nutritional value, containing calcium, vitamin B12, iodine, selenium, phosphorus, and omega-3 fatty acids. Shrimp can be served in a variety of ways, such as in the form of kebabs, salads, stews, or deep-fried. Some common shrimp dishes are gumbo and shrimp creole. - Salmon
Salmon is the second most common seafood consumed. It is found that, on average, 918 million pieces of salmon are consumed annually. It may also be farm-raised or wild. There are plenty of benefits of consuming salmon, as it is high in vitamin D, proteins, and omega-3 fatty acids. You can have salmon in a variety of dishes. - Tuna
Tuna is another popular variety of meat and seafood in America, and it is commonly used in sandwiches and sushi. Tuna is highly nutritious as it consists of omega-3 fatty acids and protein. The other benefit of tuna is that it is not very expensive. On average, people around 701 pounds of tuna annually in the country. It is significant to note that tuna contains a high amount of mercury, so expecting mothers should not consume it or consult their health care provider. - Alaska Pollock
It is one of the tastiest kinds of seafood found in Alaska, and because of its high nutritional value, it is a popular choice of many. It is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, minerals, and proteins, and may be cooked in several varieties.
It is safe to say that no one type of meat is healthier than the other. There are various factors to be considered, such as nutritional value, affordability, and taste. Therefore, to achieve high nutritional value, it is always suggested to explore options and experiment with recipes so that you can enjoy balanced meals. Ensure that all foods are eaten in moderation.
