Beef and Plant Burger Metabolomics Study

The purpose of this study is to determine the effects of meat on inflammatory and metabolite profiles in middle-aged individuals after an acute meal. Up to 36 adults, who are overweight or obese and between 30-60 years old will undergo a consent/screening visit, followed by three study visits. On separate visits to the clinical research facilities at the Center for Human Nutrition Studies, participants will consume either 9 oz (250 grams) of cooked grain-fed beef, grass-fed beef, or a plant-based meat alternative (Impossible Burger). Blood will be drawn prior to food consumption and three more times after eating the meal at 1h, 3h, and 5h after participants finishing their meal. The investigators will use those blood samples to determine the impacts of these foods on inflammatory markers and metabolite profiles (compounds that circulate in our blood such as amino acids, fatty acids, and phenolics).