Meats

Protein is one of the most important basic food groups and actually accounts for approximately 16% of an individual's body weight. In a preparedness situation, the consumption of protein is vital to maintaining overall health and energy. Inadequate consumption of protein can deplete stamina, lower resistance to infection and cause wounds to heal more slowly. It can also prolong recovery from illness and be responsible for mental depression.

All proteins are made up of smaller particles called amino acids. There are 23 amino acids in total and 9 of these are known as essential. These 9 can only be obtained from nutrition. Foods that contain the 9 essential amino acids are known as complete proteins. Meat is said to be the highest quality complete protein and contains all of the vital 9.

Meats are also rich in minerals, in particular iron. Iron functions primarily as a carrier of oxygen, it helps in the formation of hemoglobin that sends oxygen from the lungs to the various parts of the body. This mineral will also aid cognitive development, regulate temperature and improve your immune system.

Soy is another complete protein that is also rich in iron and contains the 9 essential amino acids. Soy is the substance we use in our vegetarian meat substitutes. So you can be sure that you will be receiving the vital proteins, minerals and vitamins that you need for a healthy body without consuming meat.