The role of white meat in healthy nutrition is increasingly well-documented by international scientific literature. According to a World Health Organization (WHO, 2024) study, moderate consumption of white meat — about three to four servings per week — is associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease compared to diets high in processed red meat.

Both FAO and EFSA confirm that chicken and turkey provide complete proteins, B-complex vitamins, and unsaturated fatty acids, contributing to lipid balance. At the same time, their low saturated fat content (below 3%) and absence of oxidized cholesterol make white meat a favorable option for heart-healthy diets.

In Romania, cardiovascular diseases remain the leading cause of mortality, accounting for over 52% of total deaths (INS data). However, studies by the National Institute of Public Health (INSP, 2024) indicate a growing interest among consumers in balanced diets based on lean meats, vegetables, and fish.

This shift is also visible in the food market, where sales of refrigerated meat, non-fried products, and reformulated foods with lower salt and fat content are on the rise. Major retail chains have introduced dedicated “cardio-friendly” product categories, while local processors are investing in slow-cooking technologies and controlled-atmosphere packaging to preserve nutritional value.

For Romania, promoting the responsible consumption of locally sourced white meat, produced under high animal welfare standards, can support both public health goals and competitiveness in the food industry.

(Photo: Freepik)