Debbie asks: “What’s the definition of processed meat? Everyone seems to agree that we should avoid it. But I’m never sure what counts. Hot dogs and bologna seem obvious. Is sausage considered processed? What about sliced lunch meat at the deli?”

Researchers have found that people who eat the most processed and/or cured meats have higher risk of things like heart disease and cancer. Naturally, people who pay attention to these sort of things want to know which meats are on the “bad” list.

Unfortunately, there is no single definition–and the validity of the association between processed meat and disease risk has a lot to do with what’s included. In some studies and surveys, processed meat is any meat that has been cured, smoked, dried, or had anything added to it, including salt, seasonings, or preservatives. Other studies have a separate category for cured meats.

So, what exactly are we supposed to avoid? Pepperoni seems pretty obvious. But what about smoked salmon or uncured bacon? Is a package of sliced turkey breast off limits?  Continue reading “What counts as processed meat (and why eating a hot dog won’t kill you)” >