No need to eliminate processed meat from diet, says local dietitian

W.H.O. put processed meats in same
cancer category as smoking, asbestos

The World Health Organization has deemed that processed meats, such as bacon, sausages and hot dogs, cause cancer.

Monday, the W.H.O. stated processed meats have been placed in the same category of cancer risk as tobacco smoking and asbestos.

A group of scientists reviewed the evidence linking red meat and processed meat consumption to cancer and concluded that eating processed meats regularly increases the risk of colorectal cancer. 

Valerie Pampuch, a registered dietitian with Gundersen Health System, says that doesn’t mean you need to eliminate the items from your diet though. She says studies show that the heaviest meat eaters tend to have the highest risk.