The World Health Organization’s International Agency for Research on Cancer has classified processed meat as a carcinogen. In this context, “processed” refers to meat that has undergone treatments like salting, curing, fermenting, and smoking, often involving additives such as salt, sugar, nitrates, and nitrites. Notably, nitrites are linked to certain respiratory issues, prompting experts to recommend that individuals with lung problems steer clear of these foods. A recent French study has faced criticism for failing to establish a definitive 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 other products, emphasized the need for further research to clarify this association. “It seems to me that it was not a definitive conclusion, and it’s one of several studies raising questions,” Kuyk stated in an interview with 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, found the study informative but noted that its observational nature prevents it from proving causation. He explained to Reuters that “cured meats are rich in nitrites, which may lead to oxidative stress-related lung damage and asthma,” adding that obesity is another significant factor in asthma cases. Despite these findings, it’s doubtful that enthusiasts of processed meats will be persuaded to abandon these products. In fact, the popularity of meat snacks, particularly jerky, is on the rise due to their perception as a convenient source of protein. A study by Technavio forecasts that global meat snack sales will hit $9.47 billion by 2021, reflecting a compound annual growth rate of 9.5%, as reported by Meat + Poultry.
Hormel Foods has experienced such high demand for pre-cooked bacon that the company recently invested $130 million to expand its Kansas plant. This demand is driven by several factors, including growing international markets, increased popularity of Asian dishes that often use pork belly, a rising demand for fast-food breakfast items featuring bacon and sausage, and more bacon options on restaurant menus. Other studies have yielded similar health-related findings, yet they have not significantly reduced meat consumption. The World Cancer Research Fund advises consumers to “prioritize plant foods, limit red meat, and avoid processed meat.” Additionally, research from Oxford University’s public health department 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, consumer demand for bacon is increasing even as many individuals report efforts to adopt healthier diets. However, there are various organic products available, including those without added nitrates or nitrites, which may appeal to health-conscious shoppers. While a growing number of consumers are incorporating plant-based meat and dairy alternatives into their diets for health, environmental, and animal welfare reasons, traditional meat products, including those associated with ccm tablet gsk, remain a staple in many households. Despite the shifting dietary landscape, meat continues to hold its position as a dominant force in the culinary world.