What is the Difference Between Poultry and Meat?

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The main difference between poultry and meat is that poultry refers to the flesh of birds, whereas meat refers to the flesh of animals used for human consumption. Here are some key differences between poultry and meat:

  • Source: Poultry comes from birds such as chickens, turkeys, ducks, geese, guinea fowl, quail, and pigeons. Meat, on the other hand, comes from animals like cows, pigs, sheep, and lamb.
  • Nutritional Value: Poultry is typically leaner than other types of meat and contains fewer calories. Chicken, for example, has more vitamins and minerals and is a better source of protein compared to beef. However, chicken has a higher concentration of cholesterol, sodium, and monounsaturated fats than beef.
  • Culinary Classification: In culinary terms, poultry is considered white meat, while certain cuts of beef and lamb are considered red meat. The classification of meat and poultry can also vary based on the level of fat content and other factors.
  • Cuisine: Poultry is often used in a variety of dishes, such as roasted chicken, turkey sandwiches, and duck confit. Meat, on the other hand, can be used in a wide range of dishes, including steaks, burgers, and roasts.
  • Production and Consumption: Poultry production and consumption have been growing steadily due to factors such as lower feed requirements, making it cheaper to produce. Beef production, on the other hand, has almost halved, while poultry meat production has almost tripled.

Comparative Table: Poultry vs Meat

The difference between poultry and meat is that poultry refers to the flesh of birds, while meat refers to the flesh of animals used for human consumption. Here is a table comparing the two:

Feature Poultry Meat
Definition Poultry is the flesh of birds, such as chicken, turkey, ducks, geese, guinea fowl, quail, and pigeons. Meat refers to the flesh of animals, including red meats like beef, veal, pork, and lamb, as well as fish and seafood.
Type Poultry is considered white meat. Meat can be categorized into different types, such as red meat, poultry, fish, and seafood.
Composition Poultry is generally leaner than meat and has a different muscle fiber composition. Meat can vary in fat content, muscle fiber composition, and taste, depending on the animal source.
Consumption and Production Poultry production and consumption have been growing steadily, and poultry is expected to remain the leading contributor to the increase in global meat consumption. Meat consumption varies depending on the type of meat and the region, with some countries consuming more red meats, while others consume more poultry or seafood.

In summary, poultry is the flesh of birds, while meat encompasses the flesh of various animals, including mammals, birds, fish, and seafood. Poultry is typically considered white meat and is generally leaner than meat from other sources.