9 facts about meat that might surprise you

If plant-based diets are on the rise, that's not to say that the public appetite for meat is disappearing. It is a sign that people are more concerned about environmental issues, welfare and health than they used to be. 

While it is commonly believed that we are all headed into a meat-free future, the likelihood is that peoples' standards will go up, favouring  quality over quantity.  Here is a list of facts collated by QMS  to dispel some pre-conceptions about meat consumption.

1 ) 95% of the world's population eats meat.

The number of vegetarians and vegans has changed very little over the last decade. 

 2) 80% of the land in Scotland is not suitable for growing crops or vegetables but is ideal for grazing cattle and sheep.

Scotch Beef and Scotch Lamb comes from animals fed largely on a grass-fed diet.

 3) Scotch Beef is a great source of iron.

Did you know iron-rich ingredients like red meat support the formation of red blood cells - crucial to carrying oxygen from our lungs to the rest of our body and carbon dioxide back to our lungs to be exhaled?

 4) Cooking meat is of course a science, but can you name the chemical reaction that occurs when cooking meat?

The Maillard Reaction, named after the Chemist Louis Camille Maillard, is an example of non-enzymatic browning that occurs, giving roast meats their distinctive flavour and smell.

 5) Eating red meat such as beef, lamb or pork can improve satiety.

That “feeling of fullness” is achieved through meat being a great source of protein. Helping curb the hunger and craving pangs!

 6) A recent survey shows us that nearly 90% of Scottish people think that farming is important to economic growth.

The public are clear that they want to see more produce raised and grown locally, with an emphasis on animal welfare and environmental protection.

 7) The word flexitarian originally stemmed from people trying to reduce their carb intake.

Does courgetti spaghetti ring a bell? Many who follow a flexitarian lifestyle will opt for a great steak or meat dish when eating out – so make sure it’s the best!

 8) The world record holder for eating a 72ounce (2kg) steak, Molly Schuyler from Minnesota, scoffed the lot in 2 mins 44 seconds!

How long to cook a steak is a question often asked of chefs, however how quickly you can eat one is another matter! 

 9) Around 50,000 jobs in Scotland are linked to the production of beef, pork and lamb.

These include people such as auctioneers, butchers and of course Chefs. Restaurants who are members of our “Scotch Beef Club” recognise the importance of sourcing only Scotch Beef PGI, which is world renowned for its quality and taste.