Pork sirloin listed as heart-healthy food
The development will see pork sirloin benefit from the AHA’s Heart-Check mark on product labelling.
It comes as the Pork Checkoff continues to work with the AHA to highlight the healthy benefits of a pork sirloin roast to building a healthy heart.
"The prominent Heart-Check mark on packages of meat offers consumers an easy way to cut through the clutter of often conflicting nutrition information,” said Adria Huseth, manager of nutrition communications and research for the Pork Checkoff.
Lean and clean
“The Heart-Check mark is valuable and serves as a trusted resource for consumers. By cutting through the noise at the meat counter, shoppers can quickly identify heart-healthy foods.”
Pork sirloin joins the pork tenderloin as an extra lean cut of meat certified by the Heath-Check Food Certification Program.
Launched in 1995, the scheme helps consumers identify food products that can help build a healthy heart. To win certification, products must meet specific nutritional requirements. For extra lean meat, products must have less than 5 grams of fat and less than 2g of saturated fat, both per 100g.
Making better choices
“Today’s consumers are busy and they seek both convenience and real-time information before purchasing foods in their local grocery store,” added Huseth.
“Having the Heart-Check mark on pork sirloin roast and tenderloin products helps consumers make wise choices. This prominent, recognisable mark allows the shopper to buy with confidence.”
The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) recommends a pork cooking temperature of 145°F (62°C), followed by a three-minute rest. By following this cooking guidance, the National Pork Board claims consumers can enjoy a “healthy, tasty and tender” pork sirloin.
