May is Beef Month in Minnesota. From juicy hamburgers to sizzling steaks, Americans love beef.

In 2006, Americans spent $71.1 billion on beef, leading to a per capita onsumption of 62.9 pounds. Favorite cut of meat? Ground beef.

- A 3-ounce serving of beef (about the size of a deck of playing cards) contributes less than 10 percent of calories to a 2,000 calorie diet, but provides 51 percent of the Daily Value for protein. It also provides 38 percent of the zinc most people need in a day.

- Calorie for calorie, beef is one of the best sources of essential B-vitamins, which promote physical growth, healthy skin and nerves, good vision and a good immune system, among many other benefits.

- Half the fatty acids in beef are monounsaturated, the same heart-healthy type found in olive oil. Just don’t overdo fat. Enjoy a diet moderate in fat with lean and/or skinless meats and low fat dairy.

- And going lean with protein is easier than ever before. There are 29 cuts of beef classified as lean by USDA. So chances are, you’ll still be able to enjoy your favorite cuts, from T-bone and top loin steak to 95-percent lean ground beef.

During Minnesota Beef Month, and year round, boost your beef experiences with new recipes, nutrition details, safety tips and more online at www. BeefItsWhatsForDinner.com. While at the Web site, sign up for the free weekly e-newsletter, Beef So Simple.

(Kay Johnson is a staff writer at the Hutchinson Leader. She can be reached at johnson@hutchinsonleader.com).