Is deli meat going to give you cancer? Let’s break it down.
Processed meat, even if it says uncured or nitrate-free, is a Group 1 carcinogen, along with cigarettes and alcohol. I’m not saying giving your kids deli meat is on par with giving them cigarettes or alcohol. The distinction of Group 1 means that in any quantity, these substances are carcinogenic, whereas Group 2 and 3 carcinogens become dangerous only in specific quantities.
Nitrate-free means there aren’t any added nitrates, but there may still be naturally occurring nitrates in the meat already, based on how it’s cooked. As an example, celery, parsley, etc. on deli meat are naturally-occuring nitrates that can still become carcinogenic based on the method of cooking.
My advice? Reduce or even eliminate processed meat from your diet. That means foods like:
🥓Bacon
🐷Sausage
🌭Hot dogs
These foods can increase your likelihood of cancer, so it’s best to avoid them.
Need help taking control of your diet? 🔗 in our bio for coaching.
