What is the muscular tissue of an animal commonly referred to as?

The muscular tissue of an animal is commonly referred to as meat. When animals are processed for food, their muscle tissue is harvested and prepared for consumption, which is what we identify as meat. This term encompasses not just the muscle fibers themselves but also the associated connective tissues and fat that may be present, contributing to both the flavor and texture of the food.

While "flesh" could technically refer to the muscle tissue as well, it is often a more general term that can include both muscle and fat, and it may not specifically connote the culinary context that "meat" does. "Protein" refers to the macronutrient that is abundant in meat but is a broader concept that includes various sources and types of proteins found in both animal and plant foods. The term "muscle" describes the specific tissue type, but when discussing its culinary use or consumption, "meat" is the more appropriate and commonly accepted term.