An analysis by BBC Good Food has compared the nutritional content of more than 1,000 foods.
In the analysis, pork fat ranks surprisingly high with a score of 73 out of 100, placing eighth on the list of the most nutrient-dense foods.
A technical ranking
According to BBC Good Food, the list is based on the content of vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids.
It shows which foods contain a high level of nutrients per quantity.
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In the same assessment, green peas are ranked number 15, while green lettuce and red tomatoes appear further down the list.
At the same time, the outlet points out that the ranking is not a recommendation of what people should eat most frequently.
It is intended as a nutritional comparison tool rather than a dietary plan.
Official advice remains unchanged
Health authorities are maintaining their current recommendations.
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The NHS continues to advise people to eat at least five portions of fruit and vegetables a day.
Cancer Research UK also warns against a high intake of red and processed meat.
The organization explains that nitrites can be converted into substances that may damage cells in the intestines.
According to Cancer Research UK, around 13 out of 100 cases of bowel cancer in the United Kingdom can be linked to processed meat.
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Why pork fat scores highly
Dr. Eric Berg, who runs his own health blog, explains that pure pork fat contains both saturated and monounsaturated fatty acids, as well as B vitamins and minerals.
Nutrition expert Kim Denkhaus told TODAY.com that the quality of animal products matters, as substances from animals’ feed can affect humans.
However, a high nutrition score is not the same as a general dietary recommendation.
Sources: BBC Good Food, NHS, Cancer Research UK, and TODAY.com.
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