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Are there any downsides to brining meat or poultry?

Miya Kohrding

Well, well, well, it's time to talk about the not-so-pleasant side of being a meat-eater. As much as we love sinking our teeth into a juicy steak or biting into a crispy chicken wing, there are a few downsides to bringing meat or poultry into our lives.

Firstly, let's talk about the elephant in the room (or rather, the methane in the atmosphere). It's no secret that the livestock industry contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, with some reports claiming it produces more than the transportation sector combined. That's a pretty big downside if you care about the planet and want to avoid contributing to climate change. Of course, there are ways to mitigate these emissions, like reducing food waste, choosing local and grass-fed meat, and even switching to plant-based options more often.

Another downside to consider is the potential for food-borne illnesses. From salmonella to E. coli, there are plenty of nasty bugs that can lurk in meat and poultry if it's not handled properly. This means you need to be extra careful when storing, preparing, and cooking these foods, as well as ensuring they're thoroughly cooked before eating. It can be a hassle, but it's worth it if you want to avoid spending a few days on the toilet or worse.

Speaking of hassle, let's not forget about the time and effort it takes to prepare meat and poultry. If you're a busy person with a packed schedule, it might not be feasible to spend hours marinating, grilling, or roasting your meat to perfection. You might find yourself relying on pre-packaged or fast food options more often, which can be less healthy or less satisfying. Plus, let's be honest, cleaning up after cooking meat isn't exactly fun.

Finally, we have to address the ethical concerns around meat and poultry production. For those who care about animal welfare, environmental sustainability, or social justice, it can be hard to reconcile the reality of factory farming with the desire to eat meat. From crowded and unsanitary living conditions to the use of hormones and antibiotics, there are plenty of reasons to question the way we produce and consume animal products. It's a personal choice, of course, but it's worth considering the impact of your choices on the world around you.

So, are there any downsides to bringing meat or poultry into your life? Well, it depends on your priorities and values. If you're all about taste and convenience, you might not mind the occasional food-borne illness or the carbon footprint of your dinner. But if you care about the planet, your health, or the treatment of animals, you might want to think twice before ordering that burger or chicken sandwich. Either way, it's important to be informed and make choices that align with your values. Bon appetit!