By Amanda Hill

Are you worried about “meat glue?” At first blush, we revert back to that kid in elementary art class, snacking from the Elmer’s bottle—gross. The media would have you believe we’re eating the same thing in “meat glue.” But, as some irresponsible reporters tend to do, they’ve given an unappetizing name to a safe food product. (Remember “pink slime?”)

Meat glue is actually transglutaminase, or TG, a naturally-occurring enzyme that is found in plants, animals and the human body. TG is used to thicken egg yolks, strengthen dough mixtures, thicken dairy products and even improve the yield of tofu, according to this fact sheet from the American Meat Institute.

The media and food activists call it “meat glue,” scaring consumers into thinking their food isn’t safe. Does meat glue sell papers and boost ratings? Sure. Does it make you sick or is it bad for you? No. Food safety is always about proper preparation, information and personal choice. The FDA has approved TG in food products, deeming it safe. Transglutaminase is clearly listed on food labels, and diners can ask the chef if it is included in a dish. Steaks cooked thoroughly (to 160 degrees Fahrenheit) are 100 percent safe.

TG is used by gourmet chefs to create new culinary dishes. For example, TG is used to hold the piece of bacon in place on your filet mignon. Some restaurants will use it to create more uniform pieces of steak like tenderloin. How much TG does a meat dish have? No more than 65 parts per million (ppm) per product—a very small amount.

The real issue is a bigger movement to scare Americans into eating a certain way. Food additives have been proven safe and are vetted by health professionals, researchers and a host of experts. A news report telling me I’m eating glue is pretty jolting. But, I’m also a trained journalist, and I know to look for the full story. When it comes to TG, I’ll trust experts like chef and culinary science expert Dave Arnold. He gives a great explanation of “meat glue” and dispels the myths here.

So, do the research and decide for yourself. For me, I’ll gladly eat a bacon-wrapped filet this Memorial Day.