Traditional Ukrainian treat on your plate: How safe is pork tongue really?
How pork tongue benefits your health (photo: Freepik)
Pork tongue is considered a delicacy in traditional cuisine and a source of valuable nutrients. But is this organ meat worth including regularly in your diet? Here's how pork tongue can be beneficial and what consumption guidelines to follow.
Health benefits
A source of complete protein
According to Ukrainian nutritionist Olha Shaievska, it contains all the essential amino acids needed for tissue repair, maintaining muscle mass, and supporting immunity.
Rich in B vitamins
This product contains important B-group vitamins, in particular:
- B12 – supports the nervous system and blood formation
- B2 (riboflavin) – aids in metabolism
- B3 (niacin) – contributes to energy production, healthy skin, and digestion
Minerals
The tongue contains iron, which is vital for preventing anemia. It also includes zinc, which is essential for the immune system, skin healing, and hormonal balance.
Phosphorus is also present, which is essential for healthy bones and teeth.
Easily digestible
Unlike other meat products, pork tongue has a tender texture and contains very little connective tissue, making it easy to digest even for people with sensitive gastrointestinal systems.
How often you can eat it
According to the expert, tongue can be eaten 1–2 times per week, and it is especially beneficial for women with iron deficiency, people in recovery, or those undergoing intense physical activity.
It’s important to note that tongue can be high in cholesterol, so people with heart conditions or elevated cholesterol levels should consume it cautiously.
Like all organ meats, it requires thorough heat treatment.
It is commonly boiled, peeled, and added to salads, aspics, appetizers, or pan-fried. To enhance the flavor, it’s best to boil it with vegetables (carrots, onions, bay leaves).
Sources: Instagram of nutritionist Olha Shaievska and website Nutrient Optimiser.
This material is for informational purposes only and should not be used for medical diagnosis or self-treatment. Our goal is to provide readers with accurate information about symptoms, causes, and methods of detecting diseases. RBС-Ukraine is not responsible for any diagnoses that readers may make based on materials from the resource. We do not recommend self-treatment and advise consulting a doctor in case of any health concerns.
