Beef is a good source of iron, zinc, vitamin B-12, other B vitamins and protein. Pork is also high in iron and is especially rich in thiamin and the B vitamins. Get into the habit of shopping for your protein perishables last, so they spend less time going from the refrigerator case to your refrigerator. In Phoenix summers, you should keep a cooler in your car to transport meats, milk and other perishable food items. Frozen foods can keep other foods cooler.
Ground beef exposed to air is bright red.
Ground beef that has turned gray or brown may have handling or age problems. Look for intact packages and a uniform red color. When making patties, balls or loaves from ground meat, handle the meat gently. Don't overmix, or your burger or meatball will be dense and compact. If the mixture's just too crumbly, add a beaten egg white.