ABSTRACT
Meat and meat products are an important group of nutritionally dense foods in the diets of many consumers around the world. Although meat consumption is relatively high in developed countries, the amount of meat consumed in developing countries is increasing rapidly. By 2020, the share of developing countries in total world meat consumption will have expanded from the current 52-63% (Delgado 2003). Because of the amount consumed (Table 11.1) and because of their composition (Table 11.2), meat and meat products are important sources of a wide range of nutrients and contribute considerable proportions of the dietary intakes of various nutrients that are essential for optimal growth and development (Tables 11.3 and 11.4).
