Mixed
Modifying the physical structure of beef (minced vs. steak) while keeping nutrient composition identical does not significantly alter muscle protein synthesis (MPS) rates, but it does significantly improve whole-body net protein balance by enhancing digestion and absorption kinetics.
If you are eating enough protein (around 26g+ per meal) and engaging in resistance training, the physical form of your meat (minced vs. steak) likely does not change how much muscle you build directly. However, minced meat may be easier to digest and absorb, leading to better overall protein retention in the body, which might be beneficial for older adults or those with chewing difficulties.
MPS was 0.035 ± 0.004 %/hr in the minced beef group vs. 0.034 ± 0.003 %/hr in beef steak, postprandially, showing no significant differences between groups. Increased whole-body PS response was observed after the consumption of minced beef compared to beef steak (29 ± 2 mmol phenylalanine/kg vs. 19 ± 3 mmol phenylalanine/kg, respectively; P < 0.01).
Why this rating
Based on a single included study in a scoping review; while the specific study had low risk of bias, the evidence base is extremely narrow.
Source
Food matrix in the context of muscle and whole-body protein synthesis: a scoping review
Konstantinos Prokopidis et al. · Nutrition & Metabolism · 2025
DOI 10.1186/s12986-025-00989-y
Related findings · Mixed
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