'World's healthiest meat' is better for you than peas, tomato and lettuce

It might be hard to believe that in a world where red meat gets such a bad rep that one animal product is said to be healthier than most fruit and veg.

Cancer Research UK warn that 'many studies have shown that eating lots of red and processed meat increases the risk of bowel cancer'.

"When we eat them, nitrites can become N-nitroso chemicals (NOCs). These can damage the cells that line our bowel and lead to bowel cancer," Cancer Research explains.

The charity even estimates that 'around 13 out of 100 bowel cancers (around 5,400) in the UK are linked to eating processed meats'.

But according to BBC Good Food, who studied the health benefits of more than 1,000 foods, one cut of meat is said to be healthier than superfoods like peas, tomato and lettuce.

The NHS recommends to eat at least five portions of a variety of fruit and vegetables every day (Getty Stock Images)

Pork fat - or lard - is ranked number eight in their top 100 list of healthy foods with a nutritional score of 73/100.

It's a rich source of B vitamins and minerals and also happens to be 'more unsaturated and healthier than lamb or beef fat'.

Green peas were ranked at 15, green lettuce at 59, and red tomatoes at 61 - hence healthier than peas, lettuce and tomatoes.

Dr Eric Berg explains that 'pure lard is pig fat that is rendered and purified, often used in cooking for its high smoke point and rich taste and texture'.

“Lard contains no carbohydrates and offers both saturated and monounsaturated fats,” Dr Berg - who has 30 years of experience in chiropractic care and natural health - said.

“Incorporating lard into your diet helps you keep full and satisfied, reducing the temptation to snack between meals.”

Pork fat is said to be healthier for you than some of the most recommended fruit and veg (Getty Stock Images)

A key thing to note is to opt for 'organic, pasture-raised pork lard, as it offers better nutritional value and is free from harmful additives commonly found in conventionally raised options'.

"Research published in Animal Production Science highlights that lard contains conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), which has been studied for its potential health-promoting effects," Dr Berg added.

Kim Denkhaus, a registered dietitian nutritionist, told TODAY.com that organic meat is far healthier than anything pumped with chemicals.

“Everything an animal is eating and ingesting is eventually going to end up in us because we’re eating the animal. [Added growth hormones from animals] in the human body can increase our risk of cancer and hormonal disruptions,” the LA-based expert said.

BBC Good Food's top 20 most nutritional foods

• Almonds

• Cherimoya

• Ocean perch

• Flatfish

• Chia seeds

• Pumpkin seeds

• Swiss chard

• Pork fat

• Beet greens

• Snapper

• Dried parsley

• Celery flakes

• Watercress

• Tangerines

• Green peas

• Pike

• Alaska pollock

• Green onion

• Red cabbage

• Pacific cod