New Analysis Finds Carcinogenic Nitrates Still In Supermarket Ham

A recent analysis commissioned by the Coalition Against Nitrates found that ham sold in UK supermarkets still contains carcinogenic nitrates, nearly a decade after the World Health Organization designated processed meat and nitrates as Group 1 carcinogens. Research conducted by Food Science Fusion and Rejuvetech found that all 21 processed meat products analyzed from major supermarkets contained nitrates, with Wiltshire ham from Tesco showing the highest concentration.

Despite falling within regulatory limits, the presence of nitrates in supermarket ham raises concerns about cancer risk and other health issues associated with regular consumption of processed meats. While some studies link processed meat consumption to increased risks of cancer, dementia, and heart disease, processed plant-based options generally do not pose the same health risks, making them a better choice for human and planetary health.