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Red meat and white meat are terms commonly used to categorize different types of meat based on their color, taste, and nutritional composition. The classification of red or white meat primarily depends on the myoglobin content in the muscle fibers. I often confused “read meat” with “dark meat,” which created a lot of confusion. In this article, I explain the benefits of each, including a nutrient profile, and I provide a list of commonly fed red and white meat.
Benefits of Red Meat for Dogs
Red meat is usually derived from mammals such as beef, bison, lamb, goat, and pork. It is called “red” meat because it contains more myoglobin, a protein that carries oxygen to the muscles, giving it a reddish color. Here are a few things to know about the benefits of red meat:
- Nutrient Profile: Red meats are generally rich in protein, water-soluble vitamins (especially B vitamins), and minerals (such as iron, zinc, and selenium).
- Iron: Essential for oxygen transport and energy production.
- Zinc: Supports immune function and growth.
- Vitamin B12: Vital for nerve function and red blood cell production.
- High-quality Protein: Important for muscle repair and growth.
- Protein Content: Red meat is an excellent source of high-quality protein, providing all the essential amino acids required for various bodily functions, including muscle growth and repair.
- Fat Content: Red meats typically contain more saturated fat than white meats. There's no evidence that saturated or trans fats increase the risk of arterial diseases in dogs, although they can lead to minor increases in blood cholesterol levels. It's important to note that the effects of these dietary components on dogs are different from their effects on humans.
- Iron Content: Red meat is a significant source of heme iron, which is well-absorbed by the body compared to non-heme iron found in plant-based foods. This makes red meat an essential dietary source of iron.
Common Examples of Red Meat
- Beef
- Bison
- Elk
- Emu
- Goat
- Lamb
- Pork
- Venison
Benefits of White Meat for Dogs
White meat generally refers to poultry, such as chicken and turkey. It is called “white” meat because it contains less myoglobin and has a lighter color. Here are a few things to know about the benefits of white meat:
- Nutrient Profile: White meats, particularly poultry, are also rich in protein, vitamins (especially B vitamins), and minerals (such as phosphorus); however, the nutrient composition varies based on the specific type of meat and preparation method.
- Lean Protein: Supports muscle maintenance and repair.
- Low in Saturated Fat: Helps maintain heart health.
- Vitamin B3: Aids in energy production and metabolism.
- Selenium: Acts as an antioxidant and supports thyroid function.
- Fat Content: Compared to red meat, white meats generally have lower fat content, particularly saturated fat. However, the skin of poultry can be higher in fat; I don't remove all the skin, but I remove a bulk of the skin to control the calories in my dogs' diet.
- Fish/Seafood: I consider fish a “white meat,” although I rarely feed it as a primary protein in my dogs' diet. Unlike poultry, the fish I feed has a higher fat content (sardines, salmon, mackerel) – I feed it for the Omega-3 fatty acids.
Common Examples of White Meat
- Chicken
- Duck
- Fish
- Goose
- Guinea Hen
- Pheasant
- Rabbit
- Turkey
Red Meat vs. White Meat: Which is Better?
I've read that red meat is more nutrient-rich than white meat, but it's recommended that both be a part of a raw fed dog's diet. I try to formulate a diet comprising 50% red and 50% white meat, but it's not always easy, because white meat is usually more affordable than red meat.
When comparing red and white meat, it's important to remember that the nutrient profiles vary depending on the animal, what it's fed, and the cut of meat. For example, I've been told wild rabbit is labeled red meat, while farmed rabbit is labeled white. And I've been told farm/free-ranged pork is red meat and factory-farmed pork is white meat. I stick with the above classifications because most of the meat I get is from local farms.
When it comes to red meat and white meat, I don't think there is a “better;” I prefer feeding a variety of protein, and I feed what's available and what I can afford.
What I Feed My Dogs
Although I have access to several proteins, I have a strict budget and only feed the following regularly:
- Red Meat: beef, pork, and lamb
- White Meat: duck, pheasant, guinea hen
Benefits of Alternating Proteins in Raw Dog Food
I like to alternate between four or five proteins when formulating my dogs' meals. I don't give much thought to myoglobin levels in the meat, focusing more on availability and my budget. The main proteins I feed are duck, beef, and pork. I occasionally add lamb, venison, and pheasant to the rotation. I alternate proteins for the following benefits:
1 – Each protein has a different amino acid signature that benefits our dogs and different types of fat. By feeding a variety of proteins, I'm exposing our dogs to several amino acids while balancing the amount of fat they're consuming.
2 – Dogs love variety. Alternating proteins prevents boredom at mealtime. My dogs are excited for each meal, and I enjoy mixing it up for them.
3 – Avoid protein sensitivities. Feeding a steady diet of a singular protein can cause a sensitivity to develop. Dogs respond differently to various proteins. Chicken, for example, may be harder on the digestive system due to an intolerance than duck. By alternating proteins, raw feeders may be able to prevent protein sensitivities.
Best Sources for Proteins
Have trouble finding new proteins? There are many ways to add variety to the diet without breaking the bank. I source proteins and other ingredients from the following:
- raw food co-op
- outlet grocery store
- ethnic markets
- local farms/homesteaders
- restaurant supply store
I've found that buying in bulk is another way to save on raw feeding.
Many don’t realize that any heart is considered red meat, even if it’s from a “white meat” animal. I consider wild rabbit red meat, farmed rabbit white meat. Same with duck meat, turkey meat, etc.