The proposal, which cites international research evidence, would mean that sausage and ham packages would carry the warning 'Frequent consumption of processed meat products may increase your risk of developing cancer of the colon and rectum'.
A leading US consumer watchdog has called on the U.S. Department of Agriculture to require a warning label on packages of bacon, ham, hot dogs, and other processed meat and poultry products to inform consumers that eating those foods is associated with an increased risk of cancer of the colon and rectum (colorectal cancer).
In support of the request, the nonprofit organisation the Center for Science in the Public Interest cited the findings of the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), which concluded in 2015 that processed meat is 'carcinogenic to humans'. IARC research has cited an 18% increased risk of colorectal cancer for every 50 grams of processed meat consumed daily.
The proposed label would say: 'USDA WARNING: Frequent consumption of processed meat products may increase your risk of developing cancer of the colon and rectum. To protect your health, limit consumption of such products.'
Read more here, and find out more here about Sustain's campaigning work for a healthier and fairer food system.
Published Friday 16 December 2016
Sustain: Sustain The alliance for better food and farming advocates food and agriculture policies and practices that enhance the health and welfare of people and animals, improve the working and living environment, enrich society and culture and promote equity.
