The International Agency for Research on Cancer, part of the World Health Organization, categorizes processed meat as a carcinogen. In this context, “processed” refers to meat that has undergone treatments such as salting, curing, fermenting, and smoking for preservation and flavor enhancement, often involving ingredients like salt, sugar, nitrates, and nitrites. Notably, nitrites are linked to certain lung issues, prompting experts to recommend that individuals with respiratory conditions avoid these types of foods.
Criticism has arisen regarding a French study that allegedly failed to establish a direct connection between processed meat consumption and asthma symptoms. Andrew Kuyk, the director general of the U.K.’s Provision Trade Federation, which represents producers of bacon, ham, and similar products, emphasized the need for further research to validate any associations. “It seemed to me that it was not a definitive conclusion, and it’s one of a number of studies that are raising issues,” Kuyk stated to Food Manufacture.
Dr. Sunit Jariwala, who leads allergy and immunology research at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Montefiore Medical Center in New York City, acknowledged the study’s usefulness but noted that its observational design limits its ability to establish a cause-and-effect relationship. He remarked, “Cured meats are rich in nitrites which may lead to any kind of oxidative stress related lung damage and asthma,” and emphasized the role of obesity as a significant factor for asthma sufferers.
Despite these findings, it is unlikely that aficionados of processed meats will be swayed by this or similar research to abandon their favorite products. In fact, the popularity of meat snacks, particularly jerky, is on the rise due to their perception as convenient protein sources. A recent report from Technavio forecasts that global meat snack sales will soar to $9.47 billion in 2021, reflecting a compound annual growth rate of 9.5%, as noted by Meat + Poultry. Hormel Foods, for instance, has responded to the soaring demand for precooked bacon by investing $130 million to expand its Kansas facility. This surge in demand is attributed to several factors, including growing foreign markets, the increasing popularity of Asian cuisine that often features pork belly, heightened interest in fast-food breakfasts featuring bacon and sausage, and the inclusion of more bacon on restaurant menus.
While other studies have yielded similar health-related conclusions, they haven’t significantly curtailed meat consumption. The World Cancer Research Fund advises consumers to “choose mostly plant foods, limit red meat, and avoid processed meat.” Moreover, research from Oxford University’s department of public health suggests that limiting meat consumption to no more than three times a week could prevent 31,000 deaths from heart disease, 9,000 from cancer, and 5,000 from stroke.
Interestingly, there is a growing demand for bacon even as many consumers report attempts to adopt healthier diets. However, various organic options and products that contain no added nitrates or nitrites may offer health-conscious consumers alternatives. Additionally, an increasing number of individuals are incorporating plant-based meat and dairy substitutes into their diets for reasons including health, environmental concerns, and animal welfare. Nonetheless, meat continues to hold its dominant position in the culinary landscape.
Furthermore, for those looking to enhance their nutritional intake, options such as calcium citrate with vitamin D and magnesium are becoming popular among health-conscious consumers. These supplements can provide essential nutrients that support overall health, including bone and immune system health, while still balancing a diet that may include processed meats. As the trend towards more healthful eating continues, it remains to be seen how consumers will navigate their choices between traditional meat products and healthier alternatives like calcium citrate with vitamin D and magnesium, which they may incorporate into their diets alongside their favorite snacks.