What is streak of lean?

A streak of lean is a term used in the meat industry to describe a cut of meat that has a specific amount of lean meat and fat. To qualify for "streak of lean" status, a cut of beef must have at least 95 percent lean meat and no more than 5 percent fat. This standard is used by the USDA to classify beef as "select" or "choice." The streak of lean is a popular cut of meat for health-conscious consumers who are looking for a low-fat, high-protein option. This cut of meat is commonly used for steak sandwiches, stir-fry dishes, and salads.