WCRF issues processed meat warning

The World Cancer Research Fund (WCRF) has warned parents about the risks associated with putting ham and processed meats into their children’s lunches.

The charity explained that eating processed meats could cause youngsters to develop eating habits that could increase their risk of developing cancer in later life.

It said there is “convincing scientific evidence” to suggest that eating processed meats increases the risk of bowel cancer, recommending that the food is avoided.

The WCRF added: “In the UK, scientists estimate about 3,700 bowel cancer cases could be prevented if everyone ate less than 70g of processed meat a week, which is roughly the equivalent of three rashers of bacon”.

It recommended making use of alternative sandwich fillings and foods such as fish, poultry and low-fat cheese.

The Food Standards Authority responded to the research by saying that one of the keys to maintaining a healthy lifestyle is a “balanced diet”.