07/01/2026

The Contribution of Beef in Meeting the Canadian Recommended Nutrient Intake for Zinc

Authors: K Tremblay, JA Zee, H Turgeon-O’Brien, J Marin, D Tessier, T Desrosiers

Journal/publication: Canadian Journal of Dietetic Practice and Research 59 (supp): 1999
Abstract

Meat consumption and zinc intake are highly related. For Americans, beef is estimated to contribute over 25% of zinc intake. The main objective of this study was to determine the contribution of beef in meeting the Canadian Recommended Nutrient Intake (CRNI) for zinc by Quebecers. A secondary objective was to estimate the intakes of beef and other meats and alternatives. The Quebec Nutrition survey data bank, based on a representative sample of 2118 adults aged 18 to 74 y, was used in this study. Dietary intakes were obtained with a 24-hour recall. Statistical analyses were carried out separately for men and women for the following age groups: 18-34, 35-49, 50-64,65-74 y. Mean beef intake was about 64 g and was significantly higher for men than for women (80 vs. 48 g/d, P< 0,0001). Mean intakes of red meat, meat\fish\poultry and Meat & Alternatives were 99, 170 and 213 g/day respectively. Mean beef contribution to red meat, meat\fish\poultry and Meat & Alternatives was 44%, 35% and 29% respectively. Mean intakes of zinc exceeded the CRNI for all groups except for older women. Beef intake was highly correlated with zinc intake (r = 0,64, P< 0,0001). On average, 22% of total zinc intake was provided by beef. Since at least 50% of elderly women did not reach the minimal recommendation of 2 servings of Meat & Altenatives per day, and because beef is the most important contributor of zinc in the diet of Quebecers, a diet including beef should be advised to meet the CRNI for zinc, especially for older women.

Interpretation/relevance to beef industry:

Comment by BIC registered dietitians -

  • study demonstrates the importance of beef as a source of zinc§ On average, a 100 gram serving of cooked lean beef provides almost ¾ of the Recommended Daily Intake for zinc
  • According to the new Dietary Reference Intakes, vegetarians need 50% more zinc than non-vegetarians

  • This study received funding from the Beef Industry Development Fund, nutrition research initiative, a federal/provincial initiative.

Links:

For more information on zinc see -
Zinc
Download Nutrition Perspective “Beef: Natural Insurance Against Iron and Zinc Deficiency”