Hanwoo beef board says what and how you eat red meat matters most

The Hanwoo Beef Promotion Board has shared tips on how to enjoy Korean beef as part of a healthy, balanced everyday diet.

The board said Friday that rather than labeling specific foods simply as "good" or "bad" for health, consumers should take a comprehensive approach that considers nutrients, portion sizes, cooking methods and food combinations. It also said protein foods should be evaluated not just by their content levels but by their overall nutritional profile.

Iron found in red meat is essential for carrying oxygen in the body and supporting energy metabolism, while zinc aids normal immune function and cell division. Vitamin B12 also plays a key role in maintaining normal nervous system function and red blood cell formation.

The board said cutting red meat from one's diet entirely could lead to imbalances in these essential nutrients. Rather than avoiding red meat altogether or increasing consumption indiscriminately, it recommended choosing appropriate cuts and cooking methods based on individual nutritional needs. It also noted that pairing hanwoo with vegetables, mushrooms, legumes and whole grains can help create a more nutritionally balanced diet.

"Rather than drawing conclusions about the nutritional value of a specific food based solely on research findings, it is important to take a comprehensive look at a person's overall dietary habits, including their nutritional status and eating patterns," said Min Gyeong-cheon, chairman of the Hanwoo Beef Promotion Board. "We will consistently provide useful information to accurately convey the excellent taste and nutritional value of hanwoo to consumers and help them enjoy it as part of a variety of everyday meals."