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Animal Quote by Michael Specter

“'Meat' is a vague term and can be used to refer to many parts of an animal, including internal organs and skin. For the most part, the meat we eat consists of muscle tissue taken from farm animals, whether it's a sirloin steak, which is cut from the rear of a cow, or a pork chop, taken from flesh…” quote by Michael Specter
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“'Meat' is a vague term and can be used to refer to many parts of an animal, including internal organs and skin. For the most part, the meat we eat consists of muscle tissue taken from farm animals, whether it's a sirloin steak, which is cut from the rear of a cow, or a pork chop, taken from flesh near the spine of a pig.”

Michael Specter

About This Quote

Source Book: The New York Times Magazine article “The Meat Paradox”, 2015

The term “meat” broadly covers many animal parts, but most consumed meat is muscle from livestock.

In simple terms: Meat usually means animal muscle, though the word can include other parts.

Key Takeaway

Recognize what you’re actually eating.

Themes

food terminology nutrition culture animal agriculture

Mood

informative neutral

Type

educational explanatory

When to use this quote

  • grocery shopping
  • restaurant menus
  • diet planning

Key Concepts

carnivory food labeling dietary choices

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does labeling affect your food choices?
  • Do you consider organ meats as “meat”?
A Different Perspective

The definition varies across cultures and personal diets.

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