processed meats

Processed meats are meat products that have been preserved through methods such as curing, smoking, salting, or adding chemicals like nitrates and preservatives. Examples include ham, bacon, sausages, and deli meats. These techniques extend shelf life and improve flavor but can introduce added salts, fats, and preservatives. While they are convenient and flavorful, consuming large amounts of processed meats has been linked to increased health risks, such as certain cancers and heart disease. Moderation and choosing whole, unprocessed meats are generally advised for better health.