A scientific report from researchers in France has stated that there is a clear link between nitrates used in ham for preservation purposes and colorectal cancer.
French health agency ANSES said that bowel cancer can be caused by the preservatives used in charcuterie and that a move should be made to limit their use.
Nitrates are used extensively in products such as ham, sausages, and bacon, they also give boiled ham the pink colour they are famous for. Around 90% of processed meats contain nitrates though some major corporations are now experimenting in creating nitrate free products.
The French parliament has already passed a bill in February aiming to limit the use of nitrates in the food production process.
ANES said in their review:
"More than half of exposure to nitrites comes from the consumption of charcuterie, because of the additives used in preparing it".
Adding:
"The existence of an association between the risk of colorectal cancer and exposure to nitrites and/or nitrates, whether ingested through the consumption of processed meat or drinking water. The higher the exposure to these compounds, the higher the risk of colorectal cancer in the population. Other cancer risks are suspected, but the available data do not, to date, allow the conclusion of a causal link. The agency recommends that further research be carried out in this area to confirm or refute these relationships".
The organisation suggests to:
"Limit their consumption of charcuterie to 150 grams per week and eat a varied and balanced diet, with at least five portions of fruit and vegetables per day".
The French study is not the first to come to these conclusions. In 2015 the World Health Organisation (WHO) said processed meat was carcinogenic, as were meats preserved through a smoking process.
French politician Richard Ramos is one of the most prominent campaigners against nitrates. He said recently:
"There is a link between colorectal cancer and nitrates in charcuterie, so we must ban nitrates."
Some smaller meat firms worry though that new nitrate-free processes could affect their profitability and ability to stay in business.
[Based on reporting by: euronews.]
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