Understanding Heart Health in the Culinary World
As we enter February, the focus on heart health intensifies, especially during American Heart Month. With heart disease being the leading cause of death in the United States, affecting nearly 680,000 lives annually, it’s crucial for food and beverage professionals to prioritize heart-healthy options in their offerings. One brand stepping up to the plate is Boar’s Head Brand®, renowned for its quality delicatessen products.
Boar’s Head Commitment to Cardiovascular Wellness
For nearly three decades, Boar’s Head has demonstrated a commitment to cardiovascular wellness through its extensive selection of 22 deli meats certified by the American Heart Association® (AHA). Each of these meats carries the Heart-Check mark, making them easy for consumers to identify when shopping for nutritious deli options.
Elizabeth Ward, Vice President of Marketing at Boar’s Head, states,“At Boar’s Head, we believe families should never have to compromise on taste and flavor to maintain a nutritious diet.”
The Heart-Healthy Deli Meats Portfolio
What sets Boar’s Head apart is not only its commitment to taste but also its dedication to health. To achieve the Heart-Check certification, products must adhere to strict standards, including:
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- Less than 5g of total fat per 100g
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- Less than 95mg of cholesterol per 100g
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- Strict sodium limits
Here are some standout options from the heart-healthy portfolio:
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- Turkey: No Salt Added Oven Roasted Turkey Breast, 46% Lower Sodium Oven Roasted Turkey Breast, Ovengold® Roasted Turkey Breast.
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- Chicken: EverRoast® Oven Roasted Chicken Breast, Sweet B’s® Honey Barbecue Glazed Chicken Breast, Blazing Buffalo® Style Chicken Breast.
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- Beef & Pork: Londonport® Top Round Roast Beef, Uncured Honey Ham, Old Fashioned Canadian Style Uncured Bacon.
Why Heart-Healthy Options Matter
As restaurant owners and hospitality leaders, understanding the importance of heart-healthy options can drive customer loyalty. With an increasing number of consumers prioritizing their health, integrating these options into menus not only shows care for your patrons but can also boost sales. For more insights on how to create a health-focused menu, check out our article on Creating a Health-Focused Menu.
Community Commitment Beyond Deli Meats
Boar’s Head’s commitment to health extends beyond just deli meats. In 2025, the brand donated approximately 4.1 million servings of high-quality protein to families in need across the country, reinforcing its dedication to community wellness. This not only highlights the brand’s social responsibility but also provides an excellent opportunity for restaurants to partner in local hunger relief efforts.
Incorporating Heart-Healthy Options into Your Menu
As you consider incorporating these heart-healthy meats into your menu, think about the versatility they offer. Here are a few ideas:
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- Salads: Create vibrant salads featuring sliced turkey or chicken, paired with fresh greens and a light vinaigrette.
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- Sandwiches: Offer heart-healthy sandwiches using low-sodium meats, complemented by whole-grain bread and plenty of vegetables.
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- Charcuterie Boards: Design charcuterie boards that highlight the rich flavors of Boar’s Head meats, appealing to health-conscious diners.
By being proactive about menu offerings, you can attract health-conscious customers and contribute to their well-being. Engage with your patrons by asking for feedback on these new options and consider hosting tasting events to generate excitement.
Take Action This American Heart Month
As American Heart Month unfolds, now is the perfect time to reflect on how your restaurant can contribute to heart health. By partnering with brands like Boar’s Head and emphasizing heart-healthy choices, you can make a significant impact on your community’s health.
For more information on Boar’s Head heart-healthy products, visit their website at Boar’s Head. Your customers will appreciate the healthy options, and you’ll be doing your part in promoting cardiovascular wellness.
We’d love to hear your thoughts! How do you integrate heart-healthy options into your menu? Share your experiences in the comments below!
Written by Michael Politz, Author of Guide to Restaurant Success: The Proven Process for Starting Any Restaurant Business From Scratch to Success (ISBN: 978-1-119-66896-1), Founder of Food & Beverage Magazine, the leading online magazine and resource in the industry.
