The World Health Organisation (WHO) says processed meats – such as bacon, sausages and ham – do cause cancer.
A group within WHO put processed meat like hot dogs and ham in its group 1 list, which already includes tobacco and sunlight for which there is “sufficient evidence” of cancer links.
However, it’s not all bad news.
A nutritionist with the Meat Processors’ Association Fiona Grieg said there was no evidence eating moderate portions was bad for you.
“I’m comfortable in saying that both meat and processed meat in moderate portions can be included as part of a diet as long as there’s plenty of vegetables and whole grains in that diet to reduce cancer risk.”
She said families should not completely eliminate it to avoid cancer, but consider having meat-free days each week to lower their risk.
