Protein Sources in a Pandemic: What's Left to Eat?

  • Thread starter SOS2008
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In summary: I think I'll stick to vegetarianism from now on.In summary, the WHO is saying that a bird flu pandemic is imminent, and that governments must act swiftly to prevent an outbreak. They also report that a second mad cow case has triggered beefed-up testing, and that soybeans, peanuts, and vegetables may be the only sources of protein for humans if people don't die in large numbers from consuming tainted meat.
  • #1
SOS2008
Gold Member
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Assuming people don't die in large numbers from consuming tainted meat, what source of protein will be left for humans to eat?

"WHO: Bird flu pandemic is imminent
Governments must act swiftly to prevent outbreak, officials say"
MSNBC News Services - Feb. 23, 2005
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/6861065/

"Second Mad Cow Case Triggers Beefed-Up Testing"
June 24, 2005
Also covered by: CNN, MSNBC, WSJ Online (Subscription Req.)
http://www.medpagetoday.com/tbindex.cfm?tbid=1247

"Human toll in pig flu outbreak baffles scientists
Experts worried that germ may have mutated to create deadlier version"
Associated Press - Aug. 3, 2005
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/8814458/

Not to mention mercury in seafood...
 
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  • #2
Soy beans!
 
  • #3
Peanuts? :confused:
 
  • #4
Vegetables?
 
  • #5
Very funny. :smile:

There was a program some time ago about returning to nature's ways versus the mass production scenario in which animals are crammed together in unsanitary conditions thus requiring antibiotics, etc., etc. They focused on a rancher that has gone back to moving cattle from one open pasture to another, and not at a lot more cost either. I mean, come on, one can only eat so much soy. :eek:

Really, a bigger concern is the possible outbreak of pandemic disease among humans. It seems the most horrific diseases are those that are spread from other species to humans -- mutating to deadlier versions.
 
  • #6
Risk of Milkborne TSE/BSE transmission

ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=Abstract&list_uids=15222490

In the light of current scientific knowledge and irrespective of the geographical origin, milk and milk derivatives (e.g. lactoferrin, lactose) are unlikely to present any risk of TSE contamination provided that milk is sourced from healthy animals in the same conditions as milk collected from human consumption. So the risk of milk and milk derivatives in relation to BSE is negligible.

PMID: 15222490
 
  • #7
SOS2008 said:
It seems the most horrific diseases are those that are spread from other species to humans -- mutating to deadlier versions.

That idea makes the most sense to me, because it seems unlikely that a virus can mutate from something benign already present in humans, to something very deadly and contagious. On the other hand it seems more likely that a virus that has already sucessfully figured out how to exploit another organism (especially a mammals if we're worried for humans) could very easily mutate slightly enough to exploit us or another organism. Viruses can be a deep lesson on how we understand life.
 
  • #8
All the sources of meat that we've used - can still be used, you just look for appropriate safety guidelines. Maybe cattle "guaranteed BSE free" will be some sort of niche for cattle farmers, and maybe people will pay more for that.

Otherwise, there are tons of other animals that humans have used for protein over time -- Rabbits, squirrel, dog, buffalo (we regularly eat buffalo brats from whole foods), elk, bear, deer, snake, etc.

And even though any animal could carry disease of one sort or another, some of them won't be transmitted to humans if the food is properly prepared.
 
  • #9
SOS2008 said:
They focused on a rancher that has gone back to moving cattle from one open pasture to another, and not at a lot more cost either.

The weird thing is I always thought this was how cattle was brought up, until I saw a documentary on TV about an outbreak of food poisoning and they showed how these beasts really live... in their own squalor and waste
 

FAQ: Protein Sources in a Pandemic: What's Left to Eat?

What types of protein sources are still available during a pandemic?

There are still many protein sources available during a pandemic, including canned beans, lentils, frozen meats and fish, nuts and nut butters, eggs, tofu, and canned tuna or chicken. These options are easy to find and have a long shelf-life, making them ideal for a pandemic situation.

Are there any plant-based protein sources that are easily accessible during a pandemic?

Yes, there are several plant-based protein sources that are easily accessible during a pandemic. These include canned or dried beans, lentils, tofu, nuts and nut butters, and quinoa. These options are also affordable and have a long shelf-life, making them a great choice for a pandemic.

How can I ensure I am getting enough protein during a pandemic?

It is important to include a variety of protein sources in your diet during a pandemic to ensure you are getting enough. Try to incorporate protein sources into every meal and snack, such as adding nuts to your oatmeal or having a serving of tofu with your dinner. You can also supplement with protein powder if necessary.

Are there any protein sources that are in short supply during a pandemic?

During a pandemic, there may be shortages of certain protein sources, such as fresh meats and fish. However, there are still many other options available, such as canned or frozen meats and fish, plant-based proteins, and protein powders. It may require some creativity and flexibility in your meal planning, but you can still find protein sources to meet your needs.

Is it safe to consume protein from animal sources during a pandemic?

Yes, it is safe to consume protein from animal sources during a pandemic, as long as they are properly cooked and handled. It is important to follow safe food handling practices, such as washing your hands before and after handling raw meats, and cooking meats to the recommended internal temperature to avoid any risk of foodborne illness.

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