Liver
Liver is exceptionally nutrient-dense, providing iron, vitamin B12, and preformed vitamin A (retinol). However, it is so high in vitamin A that regular consumption can cause hypervitaminosis A; the NIH advises pregnant individuals to limit liver intake due to teratogenic risk of high retinol.
What it is
Organ meat (e.g., beef, chicken, pork liver), the body's primary metabolic organ.
Source of protein, iron, vitamin A, B12, and copper in pâtés, sausages, and traditional dishes.
Why it's flagged
- very high vitamin A — hypervitaminosis A risk
- teratogenic risk in pregnancy
- high cholesterol
- high purines (gout risk)
What regulators actually say
"Excessive amounts of preformed vitamin A can be toxic; high intakes during pregnancy can cause birth defects"
"Beef, variety meats and by-products, liver, raw — nutrient profile"
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Whole food, regulated as meat by USDA-FSIS
European Union — EFSA
Whole food
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