White Meat: Health Benefits and Strategic Role in Sustainable Diets

Introduction White meat, particularly poultry and fish, is considered an essential component of a balanced diet due to its low content of saturated fats and high levels of high-biological-value proteins. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), regular consumption of white meat is associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases and with a healthier lipid profile.

Nutritional Value According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), white meat provides an optimal ratio of proteins (20–25%) to fats (<10%), being easily digestible and a key source of essential amino acids. In Romania, the average annual poultry consumption reached 34 kg per capita in 2024, exceeding the European average of 27 kg, reflecting both cultural and economic preferences for this protein source.

Health Research Insights Studies conducted by EFSA and the Harvard School of Public Health indicate that replacing red meat with white meat 2–3 times per week can reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes by up to 14% and coronary heart disease by 19%. Moreover, turkey and fish contribute to the intake of selenium and vitamin D, essential nutrients for supporting immune system function.

Environmental Impact Beyond nutritional benefits, white meat also has a lower ecological footprint. According to the OECD 2024 report, carbon emissions from poultry production are up to four times lower than those from beef. This trend supports European objectives on carbon footprint reduction and the promotion of sustainable diets.

Impact on Romania For Romania, challenges in the poultry industry are linked to maintaining biosecurity standards and expanding export capacity. From a nutritional perspective, experts recommend diversifying white meat sources, integrating organic products, and educating consumers on healthy cooking methods.

Conclusion White meat remains a cornerstone of modern diets, contributing both to population health and to the sustainability of the agri-food sector.

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