RFK Jr backs beef, declaring 'war on protein is over' as he thanks America's cattle ranchers

The two discussed "the importance of meat protein," according to an HHS news release about the Thursday event.

The trade show attracted over 9,400 attendees, which included industry professionals as well as ranchers.

Wehrbein said the cattlemen and women in the room appreciated Kennedy for "making certain that beef remains at the center of the plate for the nation's consumers."

The speech came one day after Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee welcomed Kennedy to the Volunteer State.

"I'm grateful for this administration's commitment to asking hard questions and challenging the status quo so that every Tennessean can live a healthier life."

Fox News Digital reached out to the NCBA. The HHS declined to provide additional comment.

The guidelines also recommend getting protein from certain plant-based foods, "including beans, peas, lentils, legumes, nuts, seeds and soy."

The report advises avoiding too much saturated fat consumption, limiting it to 10% of total daily calories - and a doctor previously told Fox News Digital that balancing protein sources is essential.