Blanket reduction in meat could cause nutrient deficiencies – FSS
The meat industry has responded to research from the University of Edinburgh commissioned by Food Standards Scotland (FSS) looking at the impact of red meat consumption in relation to climate change mitigation.
Upon request from the Scottish Government, Food Standards Scotland (FSS), in collaboration with the University of Edinburgh, modelled the impact of reduction in meat and dairy in take on the nation’s micronutrient intake.
FSS said the work was conducted in response to the Climate Change Committee recommendation that the Scottish Government “take low-cost, low-regret actions to encourage a 20% shift away from all meat by 2030, rising to 35% by 2050, and a 20% shift from dairy products by 2030”.
Responding to the results of the research, FSS senior public health nutritionist Dr Fiona Comrie stated: “Although the assumption is that meat and dairy reductions would be of benefit to both climate change mitigation and human health, the reality is more complex.
“Given the diet of the Scottish population is so poor, particularly in some sub-groups, an ‘across the board’ population reduction in meat and dairy consumption cannot be recommended as micro nutrient intakes may be worsened among those with already low intakes.
“If those who are classed as high consumers of red and red processed meat reduced their intake to 70g or less/day, significant progress could be made towards the CCC targets,” said Comrie. “Our research has found that this would achieve a 16% reduction in total meat consumption.”
A “balance must be struck”, says QMS
Quality Meat Scotland’s (QMS) chief executive Sarah Millar said: “QMS welcomes the findings of the modelling research from Food Standards Scotland and the University of Edinburgh showing that a balance needs to be struck between climate objectives and the health and nutrition of vulnerable population groups.
“Red meat is a rich and bioavailable source of key nutrients needed for optimal health. These include iron and selenium for immune function, B vitamins for energy, zinc for children’s growth and vitamin D for bone density.”
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