Brazilians are consuming a lot of protein from pigs: according to Brazilian Association of Animal Protein (ABPA) In 2021, the average consumption was estimated at 16.7 kg per person in the country - in 2015, this number was 15 kg. Despite the benefit of being cheaper, pork carries a bad reputation of being fattening and unhealthy. But is this really true?

Is pork fattening?

For the nutritionist Marianne Fazzi, some cuts really need to be consumed in a more moderate way by those who are looking for a more healthy balanced diet .

"O bacon For this reason, the idea that it is not healthy has been created, because in fact there is an energy and protein imbalance when consumed at will, without any guidance," explains the professional.

Not to mention that most bacons found in the market are the result of processing pork belly, a method that takes salt, seasonings, nitrate and nitrite - compounds that increase the chances of chronic diseases The same goes for sausages and cured and smoked sausages, foods known as sausages.

"We really should avoid them, because besides being calorific, an important document of the World Health Organization (WHO) The study, published in 2015, placed sausages in risk group 1 for cancer," the expert warns.

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Still, not all pork cuts are bad!

However, this doesn't mean that you should stop eating pork. Some parts are very rich in proteins, vitamins and minerals. metabolism In addition, phosphorus, selenium, and vitamins B6 and B12 can be found in pork cuts.

Not to mention that, according to Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Supply (MAPA) These animals are much thinner than before, as they eat a more balanced diet and have been genetically altered, so they concentrate on average 31% less fat, 14% fewer calories, and 10% less cholesterol.

The nutri indicates as good options:

• Loin;
• Pork tenderloin;
• Pork shank.

Source: Marianne Fazzi, nutritionist.