A review of the beef food chain on the island of Ireland has revealed that men are eating too much beef and that women are eating too little.

The review undertaken by 'safefood' also highlights that consumers have enhanced confidence in the beef food chain on the island and the industry enforcement controls that are in place.

Martin Higgins, Chief Executive, safefood commented: "This review highlights that while beef remains extremely popular and that three out of four people, on the island eat it regularly, the average portion size consumed during a meal is 100g with men consuming more than women.

"This intake far exceeds health professional guidelines of 57g in a single portion of lean, red meat. Furthermore, our review reveals that young women and children could benefit from including more beef in their diet as it is an excellent source of iron and can help with boosting low iron levels".

Dr. Cliodhna Foley Nolan, Director, Human Health and Nutrition, 'safefood', added, "Consumers, particularly men, with high consumption levels of beef are less likely to include the other elements essential to a balanced diet and are more at risk of developing cardiovascular disease and certain cancers. Reducing beef intake to recommended levels and enjoying fresh, leaner cuts of meat instead of processed varieties like burgers can help with their long-term health".

She explained: "For women, including more beef in their diets is advised as research shows 40% of those aged between 19 and 34 years have iron intakes below recommended levels. Beef is an excellent source of iron, easily absorbed by our bodies and very palatable", continued Dr. Foley-Nolan.

"Safefood' is concerned too much of children's meat consumption in Northern Ireland may be from processed varieties which are higher in salt and fat and lower in nutrients when compared to lean red meat. Whether it's a beef stir fry with vegetables or a bolognaise with peppers and pasta, including more lean meat varieties in children's diets can help with lowering their intake of salt and saturated fat while also increasing their consumption of vegetables at the same time", she added.

This review is the latest in a series by 'safefood' which examines how food is produced, processed, sold and consumed on the island of Ireland and includes research into consumers' awareness and perceptions of nutrition and food safety issues surrounding beef.