The purpose of this study is to assess the digestion and absorption kinetics of beef consumed alone or as part in healthy adults. In a randomized, crossover design, 10 young, healthy adult males and females aged 18-35 years, will consume a meal consisting of 25 g protein from minced beef alone or as part of a mixed-meal during two separate experimental trials. The main study endpoint is the exogenous rate of amino acid appearance in response to the ingested beef over a 10-h period.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Aged between 18-35 years
• BMI between 18.5-30 kg/m2
• Healthy, recreationally active (exercise at least once per two weeks and a maximum of four days per week)
• No physical limitations (i.e., able to perform all activities associated with daily living independently)

Exclusion Criteria:

• Smoking
• Vegan, vegetarian, or does not consume beef protein
• Diagnosed musculoskeletal disorders
• Use of any medications known to affect protein metabolism (i.e., corticosteroids, non-steroidal anti-inflammatories, or prescribed acne medications)
• Chronic use of gastric acid-suppressing medication or anti-coagulants
• Unstable weight over the last three months
• Diagnosed GI tract disorders or diseases
• Blood donation in the past 2 months
• Females: pregnancy