Three Beef Cuts Gain Heart-healthy Status
The Beef Checkoff Program has added three additional fresh beef cuts to its list of items that are certified to display the American Heart Association’s (AMA) Heart-Check mark. Retailers now have the opportunity to market six different extra-lean beef items to their shoppers.
The cuts that meet the AMA’s criteria for heart-healthy foods as part of an overall healthy dietary pattern include:
- Sirloin Tip Steak (USDA Select grade)
- Bottom Round Steak (USDA Select grade)
- Top Sirloin Stir-Fry (USDA Select grade)
- Boneless Top Sirloin Petite Roast (USDA Select grade)
- Top Sirloin Filet (USDA Select grade)
- Top Sirloin Kabob (USDA Select grade)
“Having the American Heart Association certify three additional extra-lean beef cuts is yet another important milestone in the Beef Checkoff’s efforts to help consumers understand the positive health and nutritional benefits of beef,” said Jeanne Harland, beef producer and chair of the checkoff nutrition and health subcommittee. “Using strong, science-based guidelines and criteria, the American Heart Association has now certified six different beef cuts, and we will continue to support and apply scientific evidence to show consumers how they can eat healthfully with extra-lean beef.”
Additionally, retailers can work with the Beef Checkoff Program to participate in the American Heart Association Food Certification Program. Integrated promotional tools are available to help retailers merchandise the certified cuts at the point of purchase. Resources include on-pack labels, posters and recipes.
Supermarket chain K-VA-T Food Stores signed up to participate in the program in 2011 and offers AHA-certified beef products in 94 of its stores. “We’re extremely pleased with the results we’ve seen through the American Heart Association certification program,” said Steve Holloway, director of meat and seafood operations for K-VA-T Food Stores. “The on-pack labels and merchandising support from the Beef Checkoff have proved valuable in educating our shoppers that they can still eat extra-lean beef as part of a healthy lifestyle. It’s been an opportunity to bring consumers back to the category and as a result, we’ve seen our extra-lean beef sales soar.”