Mince

Mince is a food product made from meat that has been ground or chopped into small pieces. It is typically made from beef, lamb, pork, or poultry, with the fat content often specified (e.g., 5% fat). The process involves passing the meat through a mincing machine to achieve the desired texture.

Mince is a versatile ingredient used as a primary component in a wide variety of dishes. Its texture makes it ideal for forming into burgers, meatballs, and sausages, or for use in sauces, pies, and casseroles. Manufacturers use it for its meaty flavour and texture, forming the base for many ready meals and meal kits.

Mince is a source of protein and various micronutrients. The UK's Eatwell Guide advises that red meat, like beef mince, can be part of a balanced diet, but recommends limiting consumption of red and processed meat. Concerns regarding the consumption of red and processed meats have been raised by some health bodies, with the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), part of the WHO, classifying processed meat as carcinogenic to humans (Group 1) and red meat as probably carcinogenic to humans (Group 2A). However, these classifications are based on a range of evidence and do not specify risk at typical UK consumption levels. The Food Standards Agency (FSA) provides guidance on safe cooking temperatures for mince to prevent foodborne illness.