19 Proven Beef Lungs Health Benefits That Boosts Your Vitality
When considering what to have for dinner, beef lung probably doesn’t even make the list, let alone be at the top of it.
In fact, it’s illegal to sell lungs in the US, at least for human consumption. However, you can buy beef lung for your pet—those lucky hounds.
The Scottish signature dish, Haggis, traditionally includes lamb lungs alongside other animal organs, such as the heart and liver. On Burns’ Night, you can imagine the unrest in the Scottish community living in the US.
So, for those living outside the US – and hypothetically for those in the US – what are beef lungs health benefits?
Let’s examine whether this organ meat can join the ridiculously healthy offal that includes the liver, kidney, heart, spleen, tripe, and brain.
TL;DR
- What Are Beef Lungs? Beef lungs are nutrient-dense organ meat consumed in many cultures for centuries. They are abundant in protein, vitamins, and minerals, making them a valuable addition to a nutrient-rich diet.
- Nutritional Benefits Beef lungs are high in protein, iron, vitamin B12, and selenium. They support muscle growth, energy production, immune health, and cardiovascular function. Compared to ribeye steak and beef liver, beef lungs offer a unique nutrient profile with low fat and high iron content.
- Health Benefits Eating beef lungs promotes muscle repair, combats fatigue, and supports bone and skin health. They’re also rich in collagen, CoQ10 for heart health, and vitamin C for immunity. Additionally, beef lungs aid detoxification and help regulate thyroid and hormone levels.
- Why Are Beef Lungs Banned in the US? The FDA bans the sale of beef lungs for human consumption due to food safety concerns, including potential contamination during slaughter and the accumulation of harmful substances. It remains in place despite international efforts and petitions to lift the ban.
What are Beef Lungs?
Beef lungs are an organ meat from cattle. They’re nutrient-dense. Many cultures have eaten beef lungs for centuries before modern science proved their nutritional value.
These organ meats are high in protein, vitamins, and minerals. Beef lungs are a great way to add more nutrient-dense foods to your diet.
Eating beef lungs can be a fun and healthy addition to your meal.
Nutrient Profile of Beef Lungs
Organ meats, including beef lungs, are more nutrient-dense than muscle meats like steak.
Organ meats like beef lungs have more vitamins and minerals than regular muscle meats. They’re a healthier option if you want to maximize your nutrient intake.
Beef lungs have all nine essential amino acids for overall health. They’re a source of many important vitamins and minerals for bodily functions and health.
Beef lungs are up there with beef liver in terms of nutrient density.
Nutrient Comparison: Beef Lung, Ribeye Steak, and Beef Liver
| Nutrient | Beef Lung (per 100g) | Ribeye Steak (per 100g) | Beef Liver (per 100g) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Calories | 104 | 291 | 135 |
| Protein (g) | 18 | 25 | 20.4 |
| Total Fat (g) | 3 | 21.2 | 3.6 |
| Saturated Fat (g) | 1 | 9 | 1.2 |
| Iron (mg) | 9.9 | 2.6 | 6.5 |
| Vitamin B12 (µg) | 7.6 | 1.4 | 83.1 |
| Selenium (µg) | 40 | 28 | 39.7 |
| Vitamin A (IU) | 0 | 0 | 16,899 |
| Copper (mg) | 0.1 | 0.1 | 9.8 |
This table shows the nutrient profiles of the beef lung, ribeye steak, and beef liver and their differences in calories, protein, fat, essential vitamins, and minerals.
Beef lung has more protein and iron and less fat than ribeye steak. Beef liver has more vitamin B12 and vitamin A.
Benefits of Eating Beef Lungs
Eating organ meats like beef lungs has many benefits. Their high protein and B vitamin content is good for respiratory health, making them perfect for a diet that promotes lung function.
Eating organ meats, including beef lungs, can also improve iron absorption, appetite control, and muscle mass retention.
1. High in Protein for Muscle Growth and Repair
Beef lung is a good source of high-quality protein needed for building and repairing muscle tissue. Protein is also needed for producing enzymes, hormones and other body chemicals.
For those who want to add muscle mass or recover from physical activity, beef lung, like many organ meats, is a lean and nutrient-dense way to meet your daily protein needs.
2. Rich in Vitamin B12
Beef lung is rich in vitamin B12, a nutrient for energy production and the nervous system function. B12 is also needed for red blood cell formation and the prevention of anemia, which can cause fatigue.
Also, it’s needed for brain health and prevention of cognitive decline, so beef lung is a great food for mental clarity and energy.
3. Good Source of Iron to Combat Fatigue
Heme iron in beef lung is highly bioavailable, the body can absorb it well. Iron is essential for the creation of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells responsible for transporting oxygen throughout the body.
Eating beef lungs can prevent iron deficiency anemia, a common cause of fatigue, especially in women and those with higher iron needs due to physical activity.
4. Vitamin C for Immunity
Beef lung from a healthy animal contains vitamin C, which supports the immune system by producing white blood cells and acting as an antioxidant.
Vitamin C enhances iron absorption, preventing fatigue and boosting energy. This two-in-one benefit makes beef lungs a great addition to a nutrient-dense diet.
5. Selenium for Thyroid Function
Beef lung contains significant selenium, a trace mineral needed for thyroid health. Selenium regulates the production of thyroid hormones, which affect metabolism and energy.
Sufficient selenium intake can prevent thyroid disorders like hypothyroidism and improve overall metabolism.
6. Collagen for Joints and Skin
The collagen in beef lungs is good for joints, tendons, and skin. It can improve skin elasticity, reduce signs of aging, and support connective tissue repair.
This is great for active individuals and those who are recovering from injuries.
7. Detoxification
Beef lung has compounds that support liver function and aid the body’s natural detoxification process. This helps eliminate toxins better and overall health and wellness.
8. Minerals for Bone Strength
Beef lung has phosphorus and calcium the minerals needed for strong and healthy bones.
These minerals work together to increase bone density and reduce the risk of osteoporosis, especially in older adults or those with higher bone health needs.
9. CoQ10 for Cardiovascular Health
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is an antioxidant found in beef lungs that supports heart health. It generates energy in cells, reduces inflammation, and protects against oxidative stress, which can cause cardiovascular disease.
Regular consumption can support heart health and overall energy.
10. Zinc for Hormone Regulation and Healing
Beef lung is a good source of zinc, which is needed for hormone production, especially testosterone. Zinc is also needed for wound healing, immune function, and healthy skin.
Sufficient zinc intake benefits men’s reproductive health and boosts their natural testosterone.
11. High in Riboflavin (Vitamin B2) for Energy Metabolism
Beef lung has riboflavin, a B vitamin needed for energy production. Riboflavin converts carbohydrates into ATP the body’s primary energy source.
Sufficient riboflavin intake supports overall vitality and reduces fatigue.
12. Pantothenic Acid (Vitamin B5) for Hormone Synthesis
Pantothenic acid in beef lung is needed for synthesizing coenzyme A which is important in fatty acid metabolism and hormone production.
This vitamin supports adrenal function and the body’s response to stress.
13. Copper for Cardiovascular Health
Beef lung has copper, a mineral needed for healthy blood vessels, nerves, and immune function.
Copper also aids in iron absorption and red blood cell formation and prevents anemia.
14. Phosphorus for Cellular Function
Phosphorus in beef lung forms DNA and RNA the body’s genetic material. It also stores and transfers energy and supports muscle contractions and nerve signaling.
15. Potassium for Blood Pressure
Potassium in beef lung maintains fluid balance and normal blood pressure. It supports muscle function and reduces stroke risk by counteracting sodium in the diet.
16. Eye Benefits
Beef lung is a good source of vitamin A a nutrient needed for healthy vision. Vitamin A protects the cornea the outermost layer of the eye and prevents age related macular degeneration a leading cause of vision loss.
Add beef lungs to your diet to support eye health and reduce vision problems. This will ensure that your eyes remain healthy and functional as you age.
17. Amino Acids for Tissue Repair
The essential amino acids in beef lung (leucine, isoleucine, and valine) are needed for protein synthesis and tissue repair.
BCAAs (branched-chain amino acids) support muscle recovery and growth for active individuals.
18. Antioxidants
Beef lung has antioxidants like selenium and vitamin C that neutralize free radicals. This reduces oxidative stress and may lower chronic disease risk and overall health.
19. Collagen Production for Skin Elasticity
The nutrients in beef lung (vitamin C and specific amino acids) produces collagen. Collagen keeps skin elastic and firm for youthful and healthy skin.
How to Incorporate Beef Lungs into Your Diet
This can be tricky if you live in the US; although you can buy beef lungs as pet food, you can’t buy them for human consumption.
But, if you’re determined to take advantage of the health benefits of lung, you can buy supplements such as Ancestral Supplements Grass Fed Beef Lung.
Outside of the US, adding beef lungs to your meals can be both delicious and nutritious. Here’s an easy lung recipe I found:
If you want to be more adventurous, here are some beef lung dishes you can try:
Paru Goreng (Indonesian Fried Beef Lung)
Paru Goreng is a popular Indonesian dish featuring deep-fried beef lungs seasoned with aromatic spices. The lungs are boiled with bay leaves, galangal, ginger, and kaffir lime leaves, then marinated in a spice paste before deep-frying to a crispy finish.
This dish is often enjoyed as a side with rice and other accompaniments.
Beuschel (Austrian Offal Ragout)
Beuschel is a traditional Austrian ragout made from veal lungs and heart, simmered in a creamy sauce with onions and spices.
It’s typically served with bread dumplings, offering a hearty, comforting meal showcasing classic Viennese cuisine.
Tumis Paru Aceh (Acehnese Sautéed Beef Lungs with Chili)
This Indonesian dish from Aceh features sautéed beef lungs cooked with a spicy chili mixture. The lungs are first boiled until tender, then stir-fried with shallots, garlic, and a blend of chilies, resulting in a flavorful and spicy delicacy.
Fuqi Feipian (Sichuan Spicy Beef Offal Slices)
Fuqi Feipian is a renowned Sichuan dish made with thinly sliced beef and offal, including tripe and tongue, tossed in a spicy, numbing sauce made with Sichuan peppercorns and chili oil.
Traditionally served cold, it’s a flavorful appetizer that embodies the bold flavors of Sichuan cuisine.
Bopis (Filipino Spicy Pork Lung and Heart Sauté)
Bopis is a piquant Filipino dish made from finely chopped pork lungs and heart, sautéed with tomatoes, onions, and chilies.
It’s known for its spicy and tangy flavor. In the Philippines, it is often enjoyed as a main course with rice or as a pulutan (beer match).
Sourcing and Quality
Grass-fed beef lungs are antibiotic—and hormone-free and raised on pasture. Supporting local farmers who meet high animal welfare standards is key to sustainability and humane farming.
Products like beef lung supplements often have certifications such as EU organic and GMO-free, which ensures they are free of additives and fillers.
Transparency in sourcing is also important; farm names are often printed on the product so you can see where it came from.
Being banned in the US, it’s tricky to get hold of, although plenty of places sell beef lungs for pet food, and some are high-quality – probably good enough for you to eat, not that I’m suggesting you should.
Elsewhere in the world, speak to your local butcher – that’s where I get mine from. Some online specialty food shops may sell it too.
Concerns and Precautions
While organ meats can be a healthy addition to your diet, you should be aware of some concerns and precautions. One of the main concerns is mad cow disease, a neurological disorder that can be transmitted through contaminated beef products.
Although the risk is low, taking precautions when eating organ meats is key. To minimize this risk, ensure your beef products come from a reputable supplier and are labeled as “BSE free” or “grass-fed.”
Mad Cow Disease
Mad cow disease or bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) is a neurological disorder of cattle. It’s caused by prions and misfolded proteins that can be transmitted through contaminated beef products.
Although the incidence of mad cow disease is low, it’s still a concern for consumers of beef and organ meats. To minimize the risk of exposure, look for beef products labeled as “BSE-free” or from grass-fed cattle.
These will help ensure the beef you eat is safe and free of contaminants.
Why Is Beef Lung Banned in the US?
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has banned the sale of beef lungs for human consumption in the US. This is mainly due to food safety and public health concerns.
During slaughter, the animal’s lungs can come into contact with harmful contaminants like stomach contents, bacteria, or feces.
Unlike other organs, lungs are highly porous and can trap these contaminants, making it hard to clean them properly.
Another concern is the accumulation of residual substances like antibiotics, hormones, or environmental toxins in the lung tissue. If consumed over time, these can be harmful.
While beef lung is nutritious and consumed safely in many parts of the world, the FDA has taken a precautionary approach to minimize the risk of foodborne illness and exposure to contaminants.
Attempts to Lift the Ban on Beef Lung in the US
Over the years, attempts have been made to lift the US ban on selling animal lungs for human consumption, especially for traditional dishes like Scotland’s haggis, which includes sheep’s lung as one of the main ingredients.
International Appeals:
Scottish and British officials have been lobbying the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) to lift the ban. In 2014, the UK’s Environment Secretary met with the USDA to discuss the ban, the cultural importance of haggis, and improvements in food safety standards.
Petitions from Medical Professionals:
January 2023, Dr. Jonathan Reisman, a Philadelphia-based physician, petitioned the USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) to change the regulations to allow the sale of livestock lungs for human food.
Dr. Reisman said the ban has no scientific basis, and organ meats are nutritious.
Cultural and Economic Considerations:
Those who want to lift the ban have pointed out the cultural significance of dishes with animal lungs and the economic benefits of allowing their sale.
For example, authentic Scottish haggis has a loyal following, and allowing its import could open up niche markets in the US.
Current Status:
Despite all these efforts, the ban remains in place. The USDA still cites food safety concerns, especially the risk of contaminants entering the lungs during slaughter, as the main reason for the ban.
While discussions and petitions have brought attention to the issue, no regulatory changes have been implemented.
For more detailed information on this topic, you can refer to the following sources:
- The USDA Doesn’t Want Us to Eat Lungs
- Lung eating is the subject of 2023’s first petition from Philly MD
- The U.S. could lift the ban on haggis
These articles provide in-depth insights into the history, cultural significance, and ongoing debates surrounding the U.S. ban on animal lungs.
Conclusion
You may not have considered having lung for supper until now; hopefully – if you can – you will give it a go.
I’ve provided plenty of options for cooking it, from simple recipes to more gourmet if you consider yourself a decent cook.
In doing so, you’ll reap the 19 health benefits I’ve listed above.
If you can’t get hold of actual lungs, you can always consider supplements to avoid missing out on the health benefits.
Lungs are another animal part that’s considered an organ meat or offal. These meats have fallen out of favor in recent years, although they seem to be making something of a resurgence.
If you’re interested in lung, you may also be interested in the liver, kidney, heart, spleen, tripe, and brain. These are all part of the ultimate human diet and the nose-to-tail philosophy.
Check out my best grass-fed meat delivery service round-up to get all these delivered straight to your door.
And that’s it… have a nutritious day!
FAQs
What are the health benefits of beef lungs?
Beef lungs have many health benefits, including respiratory health, brain function, and the immune system. This is due to their high protein, B vitamins, and selenium.
How do beef lungs compare to other organ meats like liver?
Beef lungs are milder in flavor and spongier in texture than liver, which is richer and denser. Thus, there is a different taste and texture experience within the organ meat category.
How much protein is in beef lungs?
Beef lungs contain 18 grams of protein per 4oz serving, about 33% of the daily value, making them a good source of protein.
How to cook beef lungs?
Boil, fry, or grill and add to soups or rice dishes to get the benefits.
