ground beef

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Common questions

Is ground beef healthy?

ground beef scores 85/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — one of the stronger scores in Scout's catalog. This ground beef product is minimally processed, consisting solely of beef, which is a high-quality source of complete protein and essential nutrients like iron, zinc, and vitamin B12.

How processed is ground beef?

ground beef is NOVA Group 1: Unprocessed or Minimally Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive ground beef's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Beef counts in its favor. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

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ground beef

85 Excellent

Analysis updated September 2026 · How Scout scores

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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 1
Harmful ingredients 0
Category Meat and Seafood
Summary

This ground beef product is minimally processed, consisting solely of beef, which is a high-quality source of complete protein and essential nutrients like iron, zinc, and vitamin B12. The absence of additives, preservatives, or seed oils contributes to its high score, reflecting its status as a whole food with excellent nutritional value.

Key ingredients 1

Beef
Good

Beef is a high-quality source of complete protein, providing all essential amino acids necessary for muscle growth and repair. It is rich in important nutrients like iron, zinc, and vitamin B12, which are crucial for various bodily functions. Grass-fed beef is particularly valued for its higher omega-3 fatty acid content and antioxidant levels compared to grain-fed beef.

Risks

Excessive consumption of red meat has been linked to increased risks of certain health issues, such as heart disease and colorectal cancer.

Benefits

Beef provides essential nutrients and high-quality protein that support muscle health and overall nutrition. It is particularly beneficial for individuals with increased protein needs, such as athletes and those recovering from illness.

See more about Beef →

Processing

Group 1 · Minimally processed

Unprocessed or Minimally Processed Foods

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