Ham
Also known as: pork ham
Ham is processed meat, classified by IARC as Group 1 (carcinogenic to humans), with sufficient evidence linking processed meat consumption to colorectal cancer. Curing with sodium nitrite/nitrate can lead to formation of N-nitroso compounds.
What it is
A processed pork product, typically cured with salt and often with sodium nitrite/nitrate, sometimes smoked.
Standalone meat or ingredient providing salty, savory flavor.
Why it's flagged
- Whole-food ingredient; cured-meat concern is from nitrite (captured separately).
- IARC Group 1 carcinogen (processed meat)
- high sodium
- N-nitroso compound formation from cured nitrites
What regulators actually say
"Processed meat was classified as carcinogenic to humans (Group 1), based on sufficient evidence in humans that the consumption of processed meat causes colorectal cancer."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Regulated by USDA-FSIS; processed meat product.
European Union — EFSA
Authorised; nitrites/nitrates restricted under EU food additive regulation.
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