Ham, Graubünden meat, sausage, chicken breast … All these foods have one thing in common: they are considered group 1 carcinogens and they maintain their good conservation thanks to nitrites (category 2A). The problem is that these additives are very controversial. And it appears that the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) was right to have doubts as ANSES (the National Agency for Health Safety) published a study on July 12 after several months of work, showing that there is indeed a link between nitrite consumption and colorectal cancer. She explains:
“The analysis of bibliographic data confirms the existence of an association between the risk of colorectal cancer and exposure to nitrates and nitrites ingested through processed meat. “
According to IARC, In France alone, 4300 cases of cancer closely linked to the consumption of nitrites have been identified. Also suspecting that these additives are partially responsible for stomach cancer.
What to do ?
Nitrites are present in many processed meats. Historically, butchers used it to extend the shelf life of products without them losing flavor or developing pathogenic bacteria. This is why it is found in all delicatessens. For the moment, the authorities have not yet proposed measures to provide reliable solutions regarding the consumption of nitrites through cured meats. ANSES wrote only that “ It is recommended that public exposure to nitrates and nitrites be reduced by proactive measures by limiting exposure through food. “
It also believes that such changes can be foreseen “subject to the implementation of validated compensatory measures to control this risk”.
And then the hidden nitrites?
If by now many brands report the words “nitrites free” on the packaging of delicatessen products, can we really trust the alternatives (based on vegetable extracts or vegetable broths) offered by the big names in the domain? According to ANSES, the answer is unfortunately no. She explains:
“This is not a real alternative as (these substituents) naturally contain nitrates which, due to the effect of bacteria, convert into nitrites. These so-called “no added nitrite” or “zero nitrite” products therefore contain hidden nitrates and nitrites “.
Here we are…
Featured Image Credits: @ROMAN ODINTSOV via Pexels.
Source: Madmoizelle
Lloyd Grunewald is an author at “The Fashion Vibes”. He is a talented writer who focuses on bringing the latest entertainment-related news to his readers. With a deep understanding of the entertainment industry and a passion for writing, Lloyd delivers engaging articles that keep his readers informed and entertained.
