Protein

Protein should be eaten as part of a healthy balanced diet.

Most meals will have some protein in them, usually from beans, pulses, eggs, meat and meat substitutes.

We should try to limit the amount of red (such as beef and pork) and processed (such as bacon, sausages, ham and burgers) meat we eat.

  • If you eat more than 70g a day on average, which is about three rashers of bacon, it is a good idea to eat less
  • You can spread the 70g per day over the course of a week to have a slightly larger amount 2-3 times a week
  • Where you normally use meat in a recipe you can use a little less meat and add more beans and pulses. An 80g portion of beans or pulses also counts as one of your 5 a day
  • You can choose thinner cuts of meat or leaner cuts (with less fat)
  • You can swap for chicken, turkey, or fish

A healthy, balanced diet should include at least two portions a week of fish. This should include one oily fish (such as mackerel or salmon), with one portion being around 140g.

Find out more in why should I eat a healthier diet


You can still enjoy a healthy balanced diet eating less meat. Beans and pulses are a healthy, cheap and filling source of protein.

Think about the planet too!
  • Buying less meat can be good for your budget
  • Eating less meat is good for the environment 

Making a change

How to make small, manageable changes to what you eat and drink.

Make a change