Which Types Of Meat Are The Healthiest To Eat?

Meat has been a consistent part of the diet for many generations – and remains a healthy source of energy and nutrients.

There are also multiple types of meat to choose from, each with their own flavor and nutrient profile.

So then, which meat is the best to eat for health benefits?

This article looks at 8 of the most common types of meat, along with their nutrients, health impacts and any ongoing concerns.

Chicken is the go-to choice for many families. It is simple to cook and is typically inexpensive. The relatively mild flavor means that it works in countless recipes, making it versatile as well.

The most common cuts for chicken include breasts, thighs, drumsticks and wings. However, many people simply buy the whole chicken and divide it up themselves.

In general, chicken is considered a white meat and is also a type of poultry.

Nutrition Profile

Chicken tends to be a lean meat, often chosen by people trying to lose weight. Ground chicken contains the following nutrients per 100 grams (1). As a side note, nutrition data should be used as a rough guide only. The composition will vary between cuts of meat.

Advantages of Chicken

Turkey is most common around Thanksgiving or Christmas, although some people eat it throughout the year as well. Compared to chicken, turkey has a more intense flavor.

Unlike chicken, turkey is mostly sold and cooked as a whole bird, rather than in segments. However, ground turkey is also common. This is often used as an alternative to ground beef for people trying to lower fat intake.

Nutrition Profile

As another white meat, turkey is similar to chicken. Per 100 grams, ground turkey has the following profile (2): 

Advantages of Turkey

Duck is a much less common type of white meat in the United States, but it does have an audience. It can be a good choice if you want something a little unusual, although there are fewer places that sell duck.

A key difference is that duck tends to be a darker meat. It is often fattier and more greasy than other types of white meat, and it can take time to learn to cook with it.

Once again, the most common way to buy duck is as a whole. There are some places that will sell individual portions, such as duck breast.

Nutrition Profile

Even though it is white meat too, duck does have some key nutritional differences. Per 100 grams, duck breast has the following profile (3): 

Advantages of Duck

Concerns and Issues