Technically all meat is processed unless you’re buying and butchering your own meat. I think you mean stuff like sausage, bacon, etc. Cheap meat is easier to acquire than choice cuts, and for the price, you better know how to cook those cuts or you’re just throwing away your hard earned dough.
I’m happy to see some studies reinforcing that the human body is not meant to live off of vegetables and grains alone. We are omnivores.
We were carnivores before we were omnivores.........
I find that beef short rib meat sold boneless is usually just as good as top sirloin and much cheaper. I often use it to make excellent fajitas and burritos.
I like beef and have found beef shank is very affordable and delicious when slow cooked.
I braise them like short ribs but they are about half the price.
I roast them on a sheet pan at 425F for 15-20 minutes each side, then transfer them and the drippings to a baking dish and cover with stock, then back in the oven for three hours at 300.
When done, I remove the bones, then let everything solidify in the fridge. To serve, I scoop out a portion and cube up the meat, fat, and the gelatin. I put that into a large cup, add water, then heat in the microwave.