Scientists are calling for the UK government to introduce cancer warnings on bacon and ham, ten years after the World Health Organization declared processed meats as carcinogenic. The coalition of independent scientists, cancer specialists, and public health experts are urging for cigarette-style warnings on processed meats to inform consumers of the cancer risks associated with consumption. The scientists also called for a phased ban on nitrites, which are used to cure and preserve meats and are a major contributor to the cancer risk.

Processed meats, such as bacon, sausages, ham, and hot dogs, are classified as Group 1 carcinogens due to the formation of carcinogenic compounds during processing and cooking. The scientists estimate that failure to take action has resulted in 54,000 preventable bowel cancer cases in the UK, costing the NHS around £3 billion. Additionally, reducing consumption of processed meat would not only benefit human health but also help reduce animal suffering, pollution, habitat destruction, and wildlife loss caused by factory farming.