Q: "Is kangaroo meat really as lean and healthy as the labels claim? Nutritionally, how does it compare to beef, pork or chicken?"
Agnes Mak, via email
A: Advanced accredited practising dietitian Lisa Yates replies:
“Yes, the labels are correct – kangaroo meat is healthy. It’s very low in saturated fat, high in protein and iron, and contains some omega-3 fats. This robust-flavoured meat has less than a quarter of the total fat content of premium beef mince, chicken mince and pork mince, and more protein than an equal quantity of these other meats. Not to mention double the iron of premium beef mince and triple that of chicken and pork mince! Just 1/2 cup (120g raw mince) can provide 5mg of iron, or just over a quarter of the recommended daily intake of iron for women (18mg). If you haven’t tried kangaroo meat yet, it’s sold as roasts, steaks, mince and sausages (also known as ‘kanga bangas’). Remember, with so little fat, kangaroo meat can easily dry out during cooking, so it will taste best cooked over low heat, or in stews, curries and meaty sauces.”