Processed meat is a key offender amongst packaged meals, as findings counsel they’ve much more fats, sugar and salt than was suspected.
Greater than 82% of packaged meals is ultra-processed, in line with analysis. The scientific paper titled Investigating dietary data and advertising and marketing methods of packaged meals merchandise within the Tanzanian market, Meals and Humanity, Quantity 6, 2026, has rehashed the talk with non-profit Wholesome Residing Alliance (HEALA), now calling for warning labels on these broadly consumed South African staples.
Well being dangers
In an interview with eNCA, 3 February 2026, HEALA coverage and programme supervisor Angelika Grimbeek, mentioned processed meals are marketed in enticing packaging on our grocery store cabinets, main customers to make poor dietary decisions.
She mentioned processed meat carries a few of the highest well being dangers and that sturdy, obligatory Entrance-of-Pack Warning Labels (FOPL) are urgently wanted in South Africa.
Processed meat similar to polony, viennas, bacon and chilly sliced turkey, rooster and ham are widespread lunch field objects. Affordability is an element, as the price of actual meat is excessive. In the meantime, frequently consuming meals excessive in salt, fats and sugar creates a longing for it – very like quick meals.
Listed below are 5 causes to keep away from processed meat
Elevated threat of most cancers
Processed meats have been categorized as a Group 1 carcinogen by the World Well being Group (WHO), which means there may be plenty of proof that they will enhance the danger of colorectal and different kinds of most cancers.
Excessive in saturated fat
Many processed meats are excessive in saturated fat, which may result in elevated ranges of LDL ldl cholesterol within the blood, elevating the danger of coronary heart illness and stroke.
Excessive sodium content material
Together with chloride, sodium is a serious part of desk salt. Processed meats usually comprise excessive ranges of sodium or salt for preservation and flavour. Extreme salt consumption is linked to hypertension, which may additional enhance the danger of cardiovascular illnesses.
Preservatives and components
Processed meats incessantly comprise preservatives like nitrates and nitrites, which may kind dangerous compounds within the physique and have been related to a wide range of well being points, together with most cancers and different continual circumstances, similar to diabetes.
Low dietary worth
In comparison with unprocessed meats, processed meats usually have a decrease dietary profile, missing important vitamins whereas contributing empty energy. This could result in poor dietary decisions and subsequent well being issues.
For higher well being and well-being, eat much less or no processed meats.
