Today's leaner beef continues to be a major dietary source of protein, iron, zinc and the family of B vitamins.

Protein provided by beef is referred to as a 'complete' protein because it is made up of all the essential amino acids that the body must have for good health but cannot make itself. One 3 - 3½ oz (85 - 100 g) serving of cooked lean beef provides almost 1/3 of a man's daily protein needs, and nearly ½ for a woman.

A good store of iron in the body helps keep us alert, energetic and healthy. Red meat, particularly beef, is our best source of iron and is more readily absorbed by the body than iron found in legumes or green vegetables.

Zinc is a component of every living cell in the body. It is essential for growth and reproduction, night vision, digestion and appetite (enhancing our sense of taste and smell). Zinc is critical for maintaining the body's immune system and healing process. Beef's high zinc content is more readily utilized by the body than zinc found in legumes, grains or vegetables.

B vitamins regulate the many chemical reactions in your body necessary to promote growth and maintain health. Some help to release energy, some help to maintain good vision and healthy skin, and others are involved in the manufacture of red blood cells. Vitamin B12 is only found in foods of animal origin such as beef.